Is it harmful to drive a new car on the highway immediately after purchase?
2 Answers
Driving a new car on the highway immediately after purchase can have negative effects, for the following reasons: 1. Increased wear: The engine operates at high RPM, leading to maximum mechanical wear. 2. Potential damage to the car: Using oil containing a large amount of debris while driving at high speeds can significantly increase engine wear and even cause abnormal wear. This may result in the vehicle not being in optimal condition after the break-in period. Precautions during the break-in period are as follows: 1. Avoid emergency braking: Emergency braking not only shocks the braking system during the break-in period but also increases the impact load on the chassis and engine. It is best to avoid emergency braking within the first 300 kilometers of driving. 2. Do not overload: Running a new car at full load during the break-in period can damage the components. Therefore, within the first 1,000 kilometers, the load should generally not exceed 75%-80% of the rated capacity. 3. Highway driving: Driving long distances during the break-in period increases the continuous working time of the engine, which can lead to excessive wear. When driving on the highway, ensure that the speed does not exceed 120 km/h and the RPM does not exceed 3,000. If the RPM exceeds 3,000, consider reducing the speed to keep it at 3,000 RPM. During long-distance driving, take breaks at service areas for about ten minutes.
I took my new car for a spin on the highway right after getting it, and it felt pretty smooth. However, it's important to pay attention to the break-in period. The engine isn't fully acclimated within the first few hundred kilometers, especially prolonged high RPMs at highway speeds can increase wear on the pistons and cylinders, potentially affecting the engine's lifespan in the long run. I recommend avoiding continuous high-speed driving for extended periods during the first 500 kilometers—it's better to split it into several trips and gradually increase the speed to let the engine loosen up. Regularly check the oil level and color; if it turns black or shows signs of depletion, change it early. Also, let's talk about the tires—new tires need time to adapt to road conditions. Driving too aggressively on the highway can lead to unstable tire pressure, affecting handling. Regular maintenance combined with gentle driving can make the car more durable and fuel-efficient.
