How Long Should You Warm Up a Car That Hasn't Been Driven?
4 Answers
Start the engine and let it idle for about five minutes, mainly to allow the engine oil inside the car to function more effectively, as it takes time to lubricate after being stationary for a long time. In cities with distinct seasons, the warm-up time can be adjusted more precisely: during spring to autumn, let the car idle for about three minutes, while in winter, the warm-up time can be slightly longer, recommended between five to ten minutes. The reasons for warming up the car are as follows: 1. Lack of lubrication: After the car has been parked for an extended period, the engine oil flows back to the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. Therefore, when starting the engine after prolonged disuse (such as overnight), the upper part of the engine is in a state without oil and lacks lubrication. 2. Inability to effectively vaporize gasoline: Before the engine reaches its operating temperature (approximately between 90–110 degrees Celsius), the fuel supply system cannot effectively vaporize gasoline completely due to the low temperature. 3. Lubrication of transmission gears: The lubrication of transmission gears is something most people don't understand and often overlook. Similar to engine oil, transmission gear oil flows to the lower part of the transmission when the car is cold. Only when the car is moving does the rotation of the gears bring the gear oil from the bottom to lubricate the upper part.
I remember among us older generation drivers, it was often said to warm up the car for a few minutes, especially when starting in winter. Most cars back then had carburetors, and without warming up, the engine would shake or stall. Now cars have been updated, mostly with fuel injection, and the oil circulates within seconds after starting. I habitually wait about half a minute before driving to let the engine warm up slightly, preventing wear from sudden acceleration. Especially in cold regions, when temperatures are below zero, warming up for 30 seconds to a minute is sufficient. Warming up for too long just wastes fuel and increases the risk of carbon buildup. Usually, idling the engine for too long when parked is meaningless as the engine isn't working and just idles. In summary, follow the vehicle manual's recommendations. My experience is that waiting a short while after starting is enough.
As a car owner, I've found that modern vehicles don't really need to warm up. Today's advanced engine designs and electronic fuel injection systems allow the car to be driven immediately after starting. My usual routine is to start the engine, fasten the seatbelt, and then drive off slowly - this way the engine warms up naturally while driving, saving fuel and reducing emissions. If you insist on idling to warm up, never exceed 30 seconds, as it will only increase fuel consumption and exhaust pollution. Remember to check your manual - manufacturers all recommend avoiding prolonged warm-up idling and suggest driving off directly. I've even seen online tests showing that excessive idling accelerates component wear, so just drive away promptly.
I'm particularly concerned about the environment, so I rarely idle the car to warm it up. After starting, I wait about 10 to 15 seconds for the oil to circulate, then drive off directly. Prolonged idling burns more gasoline and emits more harmful gases, polluting the air. Modern cars are optimized, and it's best for them to warm up gradually while driving. This is my usual practice—it not only saves fuel and money but also protects the environment.
