What is the Correct Way to Warm Up a Car in Winter?
2 Answers
After starting the car in winter, the water temperature will be lower than normal. You should wait until the water temperature returns to normal before gradually accelerating. After ignition, wait briefly in place. When the car first starts, the engine speed will be above 2000 RPM. After about 30 seconds to 1 minute, observe the tachometer needle drop to around 1200 RPM, and once it stabilizes with no significant fluctuations and the car body shows no obvious shaking, you can shift gears and start driving. Below are some precautions for starting a car in winter: 1. Start the car before turning on the headlights and other electrical devices. Before turning off the engine, switch off all electrical equipment to avoid battery drain during prolonged parking, which could prevent the car from starting. 2. Regularly check the condition of the battery. Car batteries are prone to poor performance in low temperatures, so it is advisable for owners to inspect the battery after winter begins. If the car is parked for an extended period, check the battery every two months to assess its performance. 3. If the first attempt to start the car fails, wait for 30 seconds before trying again. Continuous attempts to start the car can significantly impact the battery's health.
I've been repairing cars for over a decade, and idling to warm up the engine in winter is truly outdated. Modern car engines are designed with advanced technology; after starting, just wait about 15 seconds for the oil pump to begin lubricating the system, then you can drive off at low speed. The key is to keep the RPM under 2000 and drive a few kilometers to let the engine warm up gradually. Prolonged idling slows oil circulation, leading to increased wear on parts and higher fuel consumption, especially in cold northern climates. Check that you're using the correct winter-grade oil—a thinner oil flows faster and provides better protection. Car batteries tend to lose charge more easily in cold weather, so ensure sufficient voltage before starting to avoid stalling midway. From a safety perspective, warming up the engine by driving at low speeds is more stable, and winter tires with good traction are also effective. Don't forget to clear frost from the windshield to ensure clear visibility.
