Why is it necessary to warm up the car in winter?

[GideonFitz]

In winter, the reason for warming up the car is to increase the temperature of the engine oil, which enhances its lubrication effectiveness. During winter, the outdoor temperatures are lower, and the engine oil becomes more viscous. If the oil temperature is too low, its fluidity decreases, making it difficult to fully lubricate the engine. Here are some additional details: 1. Proper warm-up method: In fact, it is not necessary to warm up the car by idling in winter. The correct way is to start the engine and then drive immediately, as this increases the engine load and speeds up the warming process. 2. Pay attention to warm-up duration: Driving immediately after starting the engine also helps the transmission oil reach its normal operating temperature faster, reducing wear on the transmission. Prolonged idling to warm up the engine can lead to increased carbon buildup inside the engine.

[MacSawyer]

I've been driving to and from work for several years and find it necessary to warm up the car in winter. During cold starts, the engine oil becomes particularly thick with poor fluidity. If you drive without preheating, increased friction between components can easily cause wear. Warming up the car for a minute or two allows the oil temperature to rise slightly, improving lubrication and extending engine life. The battery discharges slowly in low temperatures, and warming up helps recharge it to avoid starting difficulties. The car's heating also warms up faster, making driving more comfortable. With advancements in modern car technology, many say warming up isn't needed, but I'm used to briefly preheating, especially in extreme cold, just in case. Remember not to warm up too long—three minutes is enough to avoid wasting fuel and increasing pollution. Drive slowly for the first few minutes after starting to let the engine warm up thoroughly—safety first.

[OCalvin]

As a car enthusiast, I fully understand the importance of warming up your vehicle in winter. When the engine is cold, metal components have mismatched thermal expansion clearances. Accelerating without proper warm-up can lead to engine knocking or part wear. The high viscosity of cold engine oil requires warm-up to reduce viscosity and improve lubrication. Transmission fluid also needs gentle warming for smooth gear shifts. The warm-up process allows the engine computer to adjust the air-fuel ratio for optimal combustion efficiency. A 1-2 minute warm-up is sufficient - modern vehicles have quick warm-up systems. Avoid excessive idling to prevent unnecessary fuel consumption. Making this a habit protects your car and represents a long-term investment.

[FelicityAnn]

I've driven for half my life, and warming up the car in winter is an old tradition. In the past, old cars would stall when cold, but now cars are better. However, the instant of cold start puts a lot of stress on the engine—oil is too thick, increasing friction. Warming it up for a few minutes thins the oil, allowing it to flow and protect internal parts, saving you from repair troubles. New drivers often overlook this good habit. Control the time properly—don't make it too long; one minute is enough for the engine temperature to balance, and the cabin warms up quickly for a worry-free drive. Experience tells me that neglecting to warm up the car may lead to increased fuel consumption or early failures. Stick to this small habit for big benefits.