What should be the speed during the break-in period of a new car?
3 Answers
It is necessary to control the speed in stages, as follows: 1. 1-500 kilometers is the initial break-in period, when the speed should not be too fast, generally below 70-80 kilometers, and the RPM should not exceed 2200. 2. 500-1000 kilometers is the mid-term break-in period, the maximum speed can be appropriately increased, generally up to 90-100 kilometers, and the RPM should still be controlled below 2500. 3. 1000-1500 kilometers is the late break-in period, the speed can be increased to below 120 kilometers. The RPM should not exceed 3000. 4. Note: During the break-in period, do not drive at a fixed speed for a long time, there should be speed changes. Also, avoid sudden braking and sudden acceleration.
I remember when I bought my first new car, I was particularly concerned about speed control during the break-in period. It's generally recommended to keep it between 50 to 70 kilometers per hour, as going too fast can cause unnecessary wear on engine components. During this time, avoid sudden acceleration and hard braking, allowing for a smooth transition. I once took a long-distance trip, maintaining a steady speed of 60 km/h the entire way, and the car still had plenty of power even after ten years. The initial 1,000 to 1,500 kilometers are crucial, with suburban roads being ideal for practice—city traffic is fine too, as long as you drive gently. A car is like a new pair of shoes; it needs time to adapt to your 'foot shape' for long-term comfort. Don’t rush onto the highway for high-speed runs—patience will make the car more durable, fuel-efficient, and reduce maintenance costs.
As a long-time driver, I've found that maintaining a speed of around 60 km/h during the break-in period yields the best results. New engines have microscopic irregularities inside, and low-speed uniform friction helps smooth metal surfaces, extending engine life. Having owned several cars, I always keep the RPM below 3000 to avoid overheating. On my first long-distance trip to mountainous areas, I never exceeded 80 km/h, and the car remains in excellent condition even in its middle age. Regular fluid checks and maintaining proper tire pressure also aid the break-in process. This practice not only protects core components but also reduces future malfunctions. Simply put, slow and steady wins the race – the vehicle responds more sharply too.
