Is it okay to idle the engine above 6000 RPM?
1 Answers
Short periods of idling at high RPM generally have minimal impact. However, prolonged neutral gear revving can cause severe incomplete combustion. If this unburned fuel-air mixture ignites outside the combustion chamber, it may lead to vehicle self-ignition. Additionally, incomplete combustion more readily produces carbon deposits that can clog the catalytic converter, causing abnormal overheating. Such high temperatures may result in wiring fires with serious consequences. Manufacturers implement rev limiters precisely to prevent excessive engine RPM during neutral revving. Without these protective measures, engines could indeed exceed 10,000 RPM. For modern passenger car engines, the maximum power output typically occurs between 5,500-6,500 RPM. Exceeding this range significantly accelerates wear on engine friction components.