Why Should Cars Be Warmed Up in Winter?
2 Answers
In winter, the low temperatures prevent the formation of an oil film on the cylinder walls, which can easily damage components. Here are the relevant explanations: 1. After prolonged parking, the engine oil flows back into the oil pan at the bottom of the engine. Therefore, when starting the engine after a long period of inactivity, the upper part of the engine is without oil and lacks lubrication. It takes about 30 seconds after starting for the oil pump to circulate oil to the most critical lubrication points, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and crankshaft. 2. Before the engine reaches its operating temperature, the fuel system cannot effectively vaporize gasoline due to the low temperature. When gasoline remains in a "wet" liquid state, it is difficult to ignite and start the engine. At this point, the choke valve comes into play, restricting some air from entering the cylinders to increase the fuel/air mixture ratio and raising the engine speed to prevent stalling. 3. The lubrication of the transmission gears is often overlooked. Similar to engine oil, transmission gear oil flows to the lower part of the transmission when the car is cold. Only when the car is in motion does the gear oil get circulated by the movement of the gears, lubricating the upper part.
Pre-warming the car in winter is an essential practice I've learned from years of experience. At low temperatures, engine oil thickens like glue, with excessively high viscosity and poor lubrication. Driving off immediately increases friction between metal components, accelerating wear and shortening engine life. Letting the engine idle for a minute or two allows the oil temperature to rise gradually, thinning the oil for even lubrication before driving – this provides peace of mind. This practice not only protects the engine but also ensures smooth transmission operation and prevents excessive battery load during cold starts. I've observed well-maintained older vehicles in cold regions, where regular pre-warming habits contribute to long-term cost savings and hassle-free ownership.
