How to Drive an Automatic Transmission Car During the Break-in Period?
3 Answers
Here are the methods for driving an automatic transmission car during the break-in period: 1. Pay attention to speed. 2. Avoid full vehicle load. 3. Avoid sudden braking. 4. Control the RPM properly. 5. Avoid long-distance trips. 6. Do not change the engine oil prematurely. Additional information: 1. Break-in process: The break-in mileage for cars is 1,000-2,500 kilometers, while imported cars usually have a longer break-in period, mostly 1,500-3,000 kilometers. The break-in period is divided into three stages. The initial break-in occurs at 100 kilometers, the preliminary break-in at 200 kilometers, and an oxide film forms after 3,000 kilometers. 2. Driving speed: During the break-in period, it is advisable to drive at low speeds. Generally, the maximum speed for trucks should not exceed 45 km/h, while for passenger cars, it should be within 50-80 km/h. Additionally, do not let the engine idle for too long before starting—30 seconds is sufficient. Avoid emergency braking within the first 300 kilometers of driving.
When I first bought my new automatic car, I was both excited and nervous. The break-in period is about the first 1,500 kilometers, during which I had to take extra care of the engine. I avoided flooring the accelerator and kept the speed below 80 km/h, as high speeds can easily wear out internal components. I made sure to drive at steady speeds, such as maintaining 60-70 km/h on highways, avoiding sluggish driving or sudden acceleration. I also paid attention to the timing of oil changes, following the manual's instructions. Every week, I checked the oil level and other fluids. I avoided idling in gear for long periods or slamming on the brakes. After the break-in period, the car ran more smoothly, was more fuel-efficient, and had fewer issues. Remember, new engine components need time to adapt—taking it slow is much better than rushing.
After driving for many years, I've accumulated considerable experience in breaking in automatic transmission vehicles. Firstly, start by gently pressing the accelerator and accelerate progressively—avoid sudden bursts of speed. Maintain a moderate speed range, staying within 80 km/h, as going too fast or too slow is not ideal. After each drive, let the car cool down for a while before turning off the engine. Within the first 1,000-1,500 kilometers, use urban roads more often and avoid frequent high-speed runs. As for gear shifting, let the automatic system handle it. Regularly check maintenance records, such as the engine oil condition. Personally, I feel a shorter break-in period is better, allowing engine components to naturally wear in. This way, the car remains durable for years. Safety first—don’t take risks just to speed things up.
