Is 160 kilometers normal for a new car?
3 Answers
New cars typically have 0 to 100 kilometers upon delivery, so 160 kilometers is slightly high. Below is expanded information about new car delivery inspection: Vehicle information check: Every vehicle comes with an identification plate that clearly displays basic information, especially the manufacturing date. Checking this plate helps effectively avoid purchasing inventory vehicles. Interior inspection: The interior check mainly focuses on the functionality of physical buttons and the condition of interior components. Pull back the seats to check for rust marks, and inspect seat belts for signs of wear or replacement.
I just picked up my new car and have driven 160 km, feeling everything is completely normal. The first few hundred kilometers are the break-in period for a new car, where components like the engine and transmission need time to adapt gradually, so driving less during this time is actually better for the car. I remember when I bought my first car, I also drove very carefully for the first few hundred kilometers, avoiding sudden acceleration and high RPMs—keeping it below 3,000 RPM is safer. Manufacturers usually recommend the first service at 500 to 1,000 km; after 160 km, just checking the oil and coolant levels is enough, nothing major. Also, check the tire pressure, as it might not have been adjusted properly at the factory. In short, driving slower and steadier extends the car's lifespan and saves fuel. My car still feels like new even after two years of driving.
Having driven for over 20 years, it's perfectly normal for a new car to run 160 kilometers. Don't worry unnecessarily. The break-in period for a new car is like a person learning to walk – you need to be gentle during the first few hundred kilometers, especially avoiding sudden acceleration or climbing long slopes to prevent premature engine wear. I often advise friends not to go highway racing during this phase; just drive around the city at 60-80 km/h. Also, after 160 kilometers, check if any warning lights appear on the dashboard – no lights mean everything's fine. When you reach about 500 kilometers, go for the first oil change. New engine oil might contain metal particles, so changing it early gives peace of mind. Remember to maintain regular servicing, and your car will stay in great condition even after 100,000 kilometers.
