Is it true that cars nowadays don't have a break-in period?
2 Answers
Whether a car has a break-in period depends on whether it is mentioned in the user manual. Here is a detailed introduction to the car break-in period: 1. Nowadays, new cars launched by automotive brands generally do not have the concept of a break-in period. However, the absence of a break-in period does not mean you can drive a new car recklessly. When taking a new car on the road, the driver needs to adapt to the function buttons and operating habits of the new car. This adaptation process effectively replaces the so-called break-in period. 2. The car break-in period refers to the initial driving phase of a new car or one that has undergone major repairs. It ensures that the various components of the car can fully contact and friction during actual operation, thereby adjusting and enhancing their ability to adapt to the environment. Typically, the break-in period covers the first 1,000-1,500 kilometers of driving. 3. Car break-in is divided into cold break-in and running-in. Cold break-in involves the engine being run on a machine where an electric motor drives the crankshaft and pistons to rotate. The pistons operate in the cylinders in a state similar to actual running conditions, but without the high temperatures from fuel combustion. This process mainly aims to prevent fine metal residues left during manufacturing from reducing the engine's lifespan. Running-in refers to the break-in process during normal driving, primarily involving the driver's adaptation to the use of the car's brake pads.
I just bought a new car recently, and the salesperson said that modern engines are manufactured with such high precision that a break-in period is basically unnecessary. I remember they explained that advancements in materials and technology allow internal components to withstand normal driving right from the start. I’ve been driving it for a few weeks, even took it straight onto the highway without any issues, and it feels very smooth. Of course, if you’re concerned, the manual recommends avoiding hard acceleration or towing heavy loads for the first 1,000 kilometers. This is much more worry-free compared to older cars—back when my family bought a car, we had to drive carefully for months. In short, times have changed, and new cars are like smartphones—ready to use right out of the box, though it’s always good to check the car’s condition occasionally.