How many minutes should a car warm up in winter?
2 Answers
In winter, a car should warm up for 30 seconds to 1 minute. After warming up, maintain a low speed with the engine RPM not exceeding 3000, otherwise the severe wear on the engine and transmission will be irreversible. Wait for about 3 to 5 minutes until the engine temperature rises to the normal operating temperature and the engine oil flows normally before resuming normal driving. In winter, pay attention to changing to engine oil with better lubrication, performing a four-wheel alignment for the tires, checking the battery level, avoiding using the windshield wipers or spray nozzles when the windshield is frozen, and replacing severely worn tires or tires of different brands and tread patterns.
I've been driving for many years, especially during the cold winters up north. In the mornings, the car engine is like a block of ice, and I usually let it warm up for a minute or two before driving off slowly. That little time allows the engine oil to thin out a bit, reducing mechanical wear and making the drive smoother. Over-warming not only wastes fuel but is also bad for the environment. By the way, before driving in winter, it's essential to check the tire pressure and battery charge to avoid breaking down halfway. Safety first—make sure the lights and brakes are working properly. Overall, the warm-up time shouldn't be long; one to two minutes is enough, followed by a few minutes of low-speed driving to let it heat up naturally. Remember, this habit can extend the car's lifespan.
