How many miles should a car run during the break-in period?
2 Answers
Generally, a car should run about 500 kilometers during the break-in period, so the speed should not be too fast and should be maintained between 50-90 km/h. Here are the precautions to take during the break-in period: 1. Reduce the car's load: Since the car cannot achieve optimal lubrication during the break-in period, excessive load will aggravate the car's wear. 2. Do not use additives: Additives should not be used during the break-in period. Many drivers are persuaded by 4S shop staff to purchase these additives. However, adding additives to the engine oil will seriously affect the break-in effect, thereby accelerating the wear rate.
I just picked up a new car, and the sales guy emphasized that I should take it easy during the break-in period, preferably not exceeding 80 kilometers per hour. Why is that? The new engine and gears are fresh off the assembly line, and the parts need a calm period to break in, like warming up before a run. If you start speeding right away, not only will fuel consumption increase, but it could also cause excessive internal friction, affecting the car's lifespan. I checked the manual—the break-in period is usually the first 1,500 kilometers or so, during which you should avoid sudden acceleration and braking, and keep the RPMs from getting too high. A friend of mine drove their new car at over 100 km/h on the highway, and now their brake pads are wearing out much faster. Developing good habits now will make the car smoother and more fuel-efficient over time, and the overall driving experience will feel more reassuring. Remember to take it slow—safety first.
