How Soon Can a New Car Go on the Highway?
3 Answers
New cars can go on the highway at any time. Newly purchased cars have a break-in period, during which the car can drive at high speeds as long as the engine is not operated at excessively high RPMs. Running the engine at high RPMs during the break-in period can increase engine wear. When driving on the highway, the following points should be noted: 1. Maintain a safe distance from the vehicle in front and avoid getting too close; 2. Drive in the appropriate lane—faster vehicles should stay in the fast lane, while slower ones should use the slow lane; 3. In case of an emergency on the highway, park the vehicle in the emergency lane, turn on the hazard warning lights, and place a warning sign 150 meters behind the car; 4. Private vehicles are prohibited from using the emergency lane for driving. Maintaining a safe distance while driving is the best preventive measure to effectively avoid traffic accidents on the highway.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I'd advise against taking a brand-new car straight onto the highway. I remember a friend of mine who took his new car for a high-speed run before it even reached 500 kilometers, and ended up with unstable engine RPMs, requiring expensive repairs later. The break-in period is crucial—generally, you should drive gently for the first 1,000 kilometers to allow the engine, transmission, and other new components to properly settle in. High loads on the highway can cause excessive friction, damaging parts in the short term and affecting long-term safety. I recommend sticking to city roads during this period and saving the thrill of highway driving for after the break-in. This way, your car will last longer, and you’ll drive with peace of mind. Remember, safety first! It’s all about forming good habits.
From the perspective of maintaining engine performance, I personally believe that new cars require a transitional phase. Break-in is not a rigid rule, but within the first 800 to 1,200 kilometers, I would avoid prolonged high-speed driving. High RPMs at high speeds can accelerate wear on components like piston rings, ultimately compromising overall performance. Gentle driving allows the engine to break in evenly, and subsequent high-speed driving can actually improve efficiency and responsiveness. I've tried it myself—waiting until after the break-in period to increase speed results in noticeably better fuel economy and more stable performance. As long as you avoid exceeding recommended RPM limits, there shouldn't be any major issues. In short, a gradual approach is best.
