What is the proper way to break in a new car?
2 Answers
Correct methods for breaking in a new car are as follows: Warm up the engine: Always warm up the car before driving off. The engine coolant temperature should reach above 40°C before moving. Warming up allows the engine oil to fully lubricate the internal components, and ensures the coolant reaches an optimal temperature, providing better protection for engine parts. Smooth acceleration: Start the car gently without sudden throttle inputs. Since all components are in the break-in period, excessive load or high speeds may prevent proper wear-in and increase part damage. Frequently shift gears during driving to allow transmission components to wear in properly. Avoid full load: Refrain from emergency braking and avoid carrying full loads. Also, do not drive on highways too early as new cars have speed limits during break-in - typically 40-70 km/h for domestic vehicles and around 100 km/h for imported cars. Keep transmission RPM between 2,000-4,000 during break-in. Don't change oil too early: First oil change should be done according to the dealership's initial maintenance schedule. Avoid adding any fuel additives like engine wear-resistant additives.
I think the break-in period for a new car is quite important—it's about driving gently to let the car adapt. For the first few hundred kilometers, keep the engine RPM low, preferably below 3,000, and avoid high speeds on the highway, staying under 100 km/h. Avoid sudden acceleration or hard braking, and accelerate smoothly from a stop. Don’t overload the car—avoid towing heavy items or carrying a full load of luggage. Additionally, check the oil level regularly, and get the first oil change around the first 1,000 kilometers to remove metal debris. Tires and brake pads also need to wear in, so drive carefully since new brakes may not be as responsive. Ensure the engine coolant temperature stays normal and doesn’t overheat. Follow the manual’s recommendations, as different cars may have varying requirements. Doing this ensures proper component fitting, fewer future issues, better performance, and a longer lifespan—keeping the car reliable for a decade or more.
