What are the precautions for the break-in period of an automatic transmission car?
2 Answers
Here are the precautions for the break-in period of an automatic transmission car: 1. The first 500 kilometers are the initial break-in period, during which the speed should not be too fast, generally below 70-80 km/h, and the RPM should not exceed 2,200. 2. From 500 to 1,000 kilometers is the mid-term break-in period, during which the maximum speed can be appropriately increased, generally up to 90-100 km/h, with the RPM still kept below 2,500. Increasing speed appropriately will not affect the engine but can promote the break-in process and help identify any abnormalities during acceleration. 3. From 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers is the late break-in period, during which the speed can be increased to below 120 km/h. Since the break-in is a gradual process, it must be done step by step. The RPM should not exceed 3,000. 4. All cars bear a heavier load at low speeds than at medium speeds, so the break-in period should not be prolonged at speeds below 60 km/h. The speed must be gradually increased. Additionally, if the break-in period is completed at a constant speed of 80 km/h, suddenly increasing the speed afterward may cause the new car to struggle to adapt. Therefore, the maximum speed during the break-in period should be increased progressively. 5. During the break-in period, avoid driving at a fixed speed for extended periods; vary the speed. 6. Avoid sudden braking and rapid acceleration during the break-in period.
When I first got my new automatic transmission car, I was especially careful during the break-in period, afraid of damaging it. The first 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers are the most critical. You must absolutely avoid slamming the accelerator or braking suddenly—accelerate smoothly and try to keep the RPM below 3,000. Avoid long-distance trips with a full load, and don’t let the engine run under high load for extended periods. Don’t frequently switch between D and S modes—just drive normally in D. Check the engine oil level and color every few days, and if it looks too dark, change it immediately. If the temperature gets too high, take a break and let the engine idle for a few minutes before turning it off. Getting these details right ensures a quieter, more fuel-efficient engine and extends the car’s lifespan. From my personal experience, being diligent during the break-in period makes driving much more reassuring later on.
