What is the reason for warming up the car before driving?
3 Answers
The main reason for warming up the car before driving is that after the vehicle has been parked for a long time, the engine oil flows back into the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. Therefore, after ignition, the upper part of the engine is in a state without oil and lacks lubrication. It takes about 30 seconds after starting for the oil pump to operate and deliver oil to the parts of the engine that need lubrication the most, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. Introduction to warming up the car: The so-called warming up is to get the lubricating oil working. It heats up not only the engine but also other car mechanisms. Therefore, even in the hottest summer, it is necessary to warm up the car appropriately. The preheating time in winter should be longer than in summer. As we all know, the engine needs lubrication when it is working, and the lubricating effect of the oil can only reach its best when it reaches a certain temperature. If you start driving when the car is cold, or even accelerate sharply, the wear and tear on the engine will increase, which will affect the engine's lifespan over time.
I remember having the habit of warming up the car for a while when driving, mainly because the oil is still thick during a cold start. If the car isn't warmed up, the oil won't fully circulate to all components, leading to greater wear and tear, especially on the pistons and crankshaft. Modern cars may not require as long a warm-up period as older vehicles, but I still wait for about half a minute to a minute in winter—it makes the drive smoother. Additionally, warming up helps the engine temperature rise evenly, preventing uneven expansion of components that could cause malfunctions. Before long trips, warming up the car makes the power output feel more stable, reduces noise significantly, and prepares the braking system in advance for safer driving. Overall, it's a habit, but scientifically speaking, it protects the car and extends its lifespan.
From an environmental perspective, let's talk about warming up the car. Nowadays, many people warm up their cars before driving, especially in cold weather. However, excessive idling actually wastes fuel and increases emissions. Emissions are particularly dirty during cold starts, but once the catalytic converter warms up through idling, it can work efficiently to reduce pollution. Personally, I only idle for about ten seconds before driving off, then let the engine warm up naturally by driving gently for a while - this is also recommended by automakers. This approach prevents carbon buildup, saves fuel, and supports green driving. Remember to check your vehicle's condition; if you notice unstable idling, address it promptly to avoid potential issues. Moderate idling is sufficient - there's no need to follow the old tradition of prolonged warm-up.
