Is it necessary to warm up a new car before driving?
3 Answers
It is necessary to warm up a new car before driving. The correct method for warming up a car is to start driving 30 seconds to one minute after starting the engine, maintaining a low speed with the engine speed not exceeding 3000~3500 RPM, typically around 2000 RPM. Once the engine temperature rises to the normal operating temperature, you can resume regular driving. Additional information: Below are some precautions for warming up a car: 1. Idling to warm up the engine should not be prolonged excessively. 2. Avoid pressing the accelerator pedal aggressively while idling. It is best to drive smoothly at around 40 km/h for the first 2-4 kilometers. 3. Small-displacement engines, such as 3-cylinder or 4-cylinder engines, must be thoroughly warmed up. 4. When warming up a car in an underground parking lot, do not drive off with just a slight rise in coolant temperature.
I think modern cars don't really require prolonged idling to warm up. Because contemporary engine designs are quite advanced, utilizing electronic fuel injection technology where oil circulation and lubrication are achieved within seconds after startup - you can just drive off directly. Older vehicles needed warm-up due to slower carburetor systems, where preheating stabilized engine operation, but new cars' electronic systems automatically optimize this. Extended idling only wastes fuel and increases emissions, which is counterproductive. From my personal experience, waiting 10-30 seconds after startup for oil lubrication before driving yields optimal results, especially during cold winter conditions. There's no need to rigidly adhere to outdated habits of idling for minutes – it saves time and is more environmentally friendly.
My habit with a new car is to wait a little while after starting it before driving. In summer, I might drive off directly, but in winter or on cold mornings, I warm up the engine for a few seconds to half a minute, which makes it run smoother. The main idea is to let the lubricating oil circulate to reduce wear, but with new car engines having better materials, it's not a big issue even if you don't warm it up for a short time. If you drive off directly, keeping the speed low for the first few dozen seconds can achieve a similar effect. It's fuel-efficient and simple, no need for excessive measures. In short, just adjust flexibly based on the weather and the car's condition.
