
New cars do have a break-in period, and the maximum speed they can reach mainly depends on the type of vehicle. For domestic cars, a speed of 40-70 km/h is recommended; for imported cars, a speed of around 100 km/h is generally ideal. Definition of the break-in period: The break-in period generally refers to the process where mechanical components initially come into contact, rub against each other, and mesh together during early operation. Precautions during the break-in period: Avoid emergency braking whenever possible: Emergency braking not only shocks the braking system during the break-in 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. Avoid overloading: If a new car is driven at full capacity during the break-in period, it can cause damage to the components. Therefore, within the first 1,000 kilometers of driving, the load should generally not exceed 75-80% of the rated capacity.

I have strong feelings about the new car break-in period. In the past, old car engine components needed gradual wear-in, and it was best to keep speeds below 100 km/h for the first 3,000 km. But now, with advanced manufacturing technologies like laser honing of cylinder walls, parts fit together much more precisely. Still, I recommend taking it easy for the first 1,000 km - keep RPMs below 4,000 and speeds under 120 km/h, especially avoiding full-load hill climbs or towing. When I first got my car, I kept it at 90 km/h on the highway, which felt a bit frustrating, but a friend who immediately drove his new car at 150 km/h started burning oil by 5,000 km. Those first few tanks of fuel are crucial for a new engine, so I suggest following the manual's first maintenance schedule strictly for the initial oil change.

Modern new cars have much looser break-in requirements. The car I bought last year went straight on a long-distance trip, cruising at around 120 km/h on the highway the whole way, and now at 20,000 kilometers it still runs perfectly smooth. In fact, manufacturers conduct cold break-in tests before delivery, and the manual explicitly states no special break-in is needed. If you really want to be cautious, just avoid stomping the accelerator for sudden acceleration during the first 500 kilometers - maintaining speeds under 130 km/h is perfectly safe. However, it's advisable not to drive continuously for 7-8 hours right after pickup to let the engine rest. Maintenance technicians confirm today's engine materials have significantly improved, with all-aluminum construction offering exceptional wear resistance - just drive normally and there won't be any issues.

There are three main things during the break-in period: speed limit, RPM limit, and frequent oil changes. For the first 2,000 kilometers of a new car, it is recommended to keep the maximum speed at 110 km/h and avoid exceeding 3,000 RPM. Avoid stepping on the accelerator immediately after a cold start; wait until the coolant temperature gauge reaches the middle mark before accelerating. Try to take the car on different road conditions like highways and city streets on weekends to allow all gears to break in properly. I prefer to use 95-octane high-grade gasoline for the first three refuels, which helps with carbon buildup issues in new cars. The most important thing is to follow the manual's requirements, as German cars often have stricter break-in requirements than Japanese cars.


