Is it good to drive a new car on the highway?
2 Answers
New cars can be driven on the highway during the break-in period. With the rapid advancement of automotive technology, the precision of vehicle mechanics has greatly improved. Some manufacturers even perform "cold break-in" treatments before the vehicles leave the factory, meaning the engine is run on a specialized test bench to facilitate the break-in process. Therefore, modern new cars are perfectly capable of highway driving. However, the following points should be noted: 1. Pre-warm the car before highway driving. Whether driving on the highway or in daily use, it's advisable to drive slowly (at speeds not exceeding 60 km/h) for a short period when the engine is cold, allowing the coolant to reach normal operating temperature before accelerating. 2. Avoid aggressive driving. It is recommended to keep the engine speed below 3,000 RPM during acceleration. Even at a gradual pace, new cars can easily reach 120 km/h on the highway. 3. Avoid prolonged highway driving. While it's generally safe for new cars to drive on the highway, it's advisable to limit continuous driving to two to three hours. If extended highway driving is necessary, take a break at a service area every four hours. 4. Use reliable fuel. Different car engines have varying compression ratios, so the required fuel octane ratings differ. Always follow the manufacturer's guidelines for fuel type.
The first time I bought a new car, I took it on the highway for a test drive, and it felt exhilarating. The new car's engine needs a break-in period, so drive gently for the first few hundred kilometers, avoiding sudden acceleration or hard braking, as these can shorten its lifespan. Highway driving is indeed a quick way to test the vehicle's overall stability and braking system. From my experience, new cars might have louder tire noise and noticeable wind resistance on the highway, but they become very stable once you get used to it. Also, fuel consumption may be higher during the break-in period, but after some driving, highway trips can become more fuel-efficient. I recommend taking a few short highway trips initially, avoiding long continuous drives, to let the engine and various components gradually adapt. Overall, driving a new car on the highway is fine, but it's crucial to read the vehicle manual, ensure proper tire pressure, and avoid risky conditions like rain or low visibility at night. Safety first—enjoy the driving experience at a steady pace.
