How often should a car take a break for optimal performance?
2 Answers
It is recommended to take a break every 4 hours during long-distance driving, with a 20-minute stop at service areas being ideal. Mandatory rest periods for continuous driving: If driving continuously for over 4 hours without stopping or resting for less than 20 minutes, electronic surveillance will flag these fatigued drivers. Traffic police will legally require the driver to stop and rest while issuing a warning. Serious cases may result in penalty points deduction according to regulations. Consequences of non-stop driving: This can easily lead to drowsiness, limb weakness, and impaired ability to promptly detect and accurately respond to road traffic conditions, increasing the risk of accidents.
I've been driving since I was young, and now it's been twenty years. For long-distance trips, I recommend stopping to rest for about ten minutes every two hours or so. Prolonged driving can cause the engine to overheat, affecting lubrication and potentially leading to faster wear and tear on parts. Like when I drove to Tibet last year, I didn't stop for three hours straight, and when I got back, I found the engine oil had thinned out a bit. During breaks, I not only let the car cool down but also took the opportunity to check the tires and oil level. This is especially important when driving on highways because higher speeds put more strain on the engine. Safety first—don't wait until the coolant temperature warning light comes on to panic. For regular city driving, short trips are generally fine, but driving continuously for too long is never a good idea. Not only does it increase maintenance costs, but it could also lead to a breakdown halfway.
