What are the effects of excessive RPM on a car?
2 Answers
Long-term excessive RPM can place a significant burden on the engine due to overheating. The effects of excessive RPM on a car include: 1. High-RPM gear shifting: Operating the engine at high RPMs can ensure complete combustion and reduce carbon deposits. However, when the vehicle outputs excessive torque at 3500–4000 RPM, prolonged driving or shifting at this range can subject various components (such as the engine, transmission, and tires) to excessive torque, leading to reduced lifespan. 2. Fuel consumption: Fuel consumption increases, and safety decreases at high speeds. When shifting gears at 3500–4000 RPM, you may notice a slight lurch forward, indicating that the torque output in this range is already excessive. It is advisable to lower the shifting RPM appropriately to achieve optimal driving efficiency.
Speaking of the impact of excessive engine speed on a car, as a driver who frequently takes long-distance trips, I believe the most direct concern is safety. When the engine speed soars too high, the vehicle is prone to losing control, especially on mountain roads or in rainy or snowy weather, where steering response becomes sluggish and braking distance increases, making accidents more likely. The engine may also overheat, producing noise and vibrations that can be unsettling. More seriously, if high RPMs are sustained, wear on the pistons and crankshaft accelerates, potentially leading to sudden engine failure on the highway. I experienced this once and nearly collided with the car in front. Since then, I've made sure to maintain stable RPMs, regularly check the engine temperature gauge, and avoid hauling heavy loads uphill. Simply put, safety comes first, and maintaining a steady speed is key.
