How many kilometers can a car run on the highway during the break-in period?
2 Answers
New cars can go on the highway after a break-in period of 5,000 kilometers. However, during the break-in period, it is advisable to avoid high-speed driving above 90 km/h. When the new car has traveled about 5,000 kilometers and is about to complete the break-in period, the owner can briefly run the engine above 4,000 rpm to reduce carbon deposits and improve engine performance. Additional break-in considerations for new cars: Avoid driving at full load during the break-in period, as excessive load increases the burden on the engine and transmission, leading to excessive power output and accelerated wear of components. Avoid prolonged use of low gears to ensure all gears are properly broken in.
I've been driving for almost twenty years. Back when new cars had a break-in period, it was generally recommended to wait until after the first 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers before taking the car on the highway. The break-in period is meant to allow the engine and other components to gradually adapt and avoid excessive wear. If you hit the highway with too few kilometers, like only 200, and drive aggressively, the engine might run unevenly, potentially leaving hidden issues that could affect performance and longevity later on. Don't rush onto the highway—drive steadily in the city, keep the RPMs moderate, and let the parts break in smoothly. My first car had few issues after over a year of driving, all thanks to a proper break-in. You can still drive on the highway, but take it easy—keep speeds between 80-100 km/h, avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking, and prioritize safety. Once the break-in period is over, you can drive freely.
