What is the recommended speed during a new car's break-in period?
2 Answers
New car break-in period speeds vary depending on the stage: 1. During the initial break-in phase, maintain speeds between 60-70 km/h with engine RPM not exceeding 2200; 2. In the mid-phase, speeds can increase to 90-100 km/h while keeping RPM below 2500; 3. In the later phase, speeds may reach up to 120 km/h with RPM not exceeding 3000. The break-in period refers to the initial driving distance after a new car leaves the factory, allowing engine components to properly wear in. Key precautions during break-in include: 1. Maintain smooth acceleration, avoid sudden throttle inputs and excessive engine RPM; 2. Ensure coolant temperature reaches at least 50°C before starting, and begin in low gear.
I was really excited when I bought my first new car. The salesperson advised me to drive gently during the break-in period, keeping the speed under 100 km/h, preferably between 80 and 100 km/h. Driving too fast increases engine friction, which can lead to premature wear and shorten the car's lifespan. From my experience, driving at 60-80 km/h in the city and no more than 100 km/h on the highway is best, avoiding sudden acceleration or hard braking, which is gentler on the transmission and braking system. The break-in period is usually around 1,500 km, after which it's safer to gradually increase speed. Driving slower also saves fuel, reducing consumption by 1-2 liters per 100 km, which is better for the environment. Regularly checking tire pressure and avoiding overloading the car are some tips I've learned to keep my car running well for years.
