How many kilometers is appropriate for the break-in period of a new car?
2 Answers
The break-in period for a new car is generally around 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers. Below is an introduction to the break-in period for new cars: 1. Precautions during the later stage of the break-in period: When the mileage reaches around 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers, it is considered the later stage of the break-in period. At this time, the speed can be increased to below 120 km/h. The break-in process should be gradual, and the engine speed should not exceed 3,000 rpm. 2. Engine break-in: This is the most important part of the entire vehicle break-in. Although the engine has undergone cold break-in before leaving the factory, there are still some minor surface irregularities on the internal components, which increase the engine's operating resistance and reduce its efficiency. 3. Engine break-in speed: During the break-in period, try to keep the engine speed below 2,000 rpm. Using the engine's operation, these component surfaces will become smoother, achieving the best fit and clearance, which helps reduce fuel consumption and extend the engine's service life. 4. Brake break-in: For a newly purchased car, the brake discs and brake pads have some surface irregularities, preventing them from fully fitting together during braking. The purpose of the brake break-in is to achieve the best braking performance and braking distance.
When I first bought my new car, experienced drivers always told me that the break-in period is crucial. Generally, driving around 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers is sufficient, and it's best to complete it within the first 1,000 kilometers. Why? New engine components need time to properly align, especially between the pistons and cylinder walls, requiring gradual wear-in to minimize friction. Personally, I make it a habit to avoid high speeds for the first 300 kilometers, keeping the speed below 80 km/h and the RPM under 3,000. Driving this way makes the car more durable, and fuel efficiency gradually improves. After the first oil change, the car feels smoother—usually, the dealership checks it at around 500 kilometers. Avoid long-distance trips during this period; short commutes are enough. Always check the owner's manual, as requirements vary by brand—some recommend a few hundred kilometers, others over a thousand. The key is gentle driving—no hard acceleration—to extend the car's lifespan by over a decade.
