“Drive it like you stole it” is a phrase often used to describe how some people think all car enthusiasts should drive: pushing the car to its limits whenever possible. It’s really tempting to want to fully explore what a brand new car can do. After all, you’ve probably been waiting eagerly to finally own it. But in reality, cars need a “break-in” period before you start pushing them to their limits. Let’s see why !
Breaking in a new car is mainly about the engine. During the break-in period, the goal is to let the engine wear in smoothly and evenly. This happens with gentle pressure, normal temperatures, and good oil flow. The aim is to make sure the piston rings, which move and flex, fit properly on the cylinder walls. If there are any tiny flaws in the pistons or cylinders from when they were made, pushing the engine too hard too soon can wear them down too fast.
Most drivers don’t know what’s happening inside their car’s engine or how their driving affects it. But following the manufacturer’s break-in instructions helps the engine do its job properly. The benefits include better fuel efficiency, improved performance, less chance of oil burning or leaking, and a longer-lasting engine.
Break-In Period
Break-in periods can vary depending on the car’s make, model, and other factors. For example, Nissan advises that its GT-R should be driven at no more than 50 percent throttle or over 3,500 RPM for the first 300 miles (482 kilometers). Chevrolet recommends a two-stage break-in for its cars: for the initial 500 miles (804 kilometers), drivers should stay below 4,000 RPM and avoid full throttle.
On the flip side, for some manufacturer’s, break-in is done at the factory before delivery. The engine is carefully run, both manually and with computer controls, for about 150 miles (241 kilometers), keeping the RPM below 4,000 and varying engine loads. This process ensures a consistent break-in, allowing new car owners to enjoy peak performance right away.
How to Condition Your Car
Improvements in manufacturing mean that the break-in period for cars has become shorter on average, but it still exists. Modern engines are more robust, their parts are made with greater precision, and they’re filled with higher-quality oil. Despite these advancements, there are still some guidelines on how you should drive your new car for the first 500 to 1,000 miles (1,609 kilometers), or the interval recommended in your owner’s manual:
- Avoid revving the engine up to its maximum RPM (redline), especially if it’s a high-performance car.
- Be cautious with the accelerator pedal; don’t floor it.
- If you have a manual transmission, shift gears before the engine reaches its redline.
- Don’t use cruise control. Let the engine experience different speeds.
- Try to avoid short trips that don’t allow the engine to warm up to its normal operating temperature.
- Avoid towing, as it puts extra strain on the engine, brakes, and tires, and increases stopping distance.
The break-in period is generally recommended for the first 1,000 miles, but it can vary depending on the type of car or engine. Differences, like shorter or longer mileage and lower or higher RPM limits, should be outlined in the vehicle’s owner manual.
However, these are just guidelines. While it’s important to follow the break-in recommendations and maintain your vehicle properly, there likely won’t be serious consequences if you accidentally push the car a bit too hard. Still, it’s best to treat the engine gently during this period to ensure its longevity.
Not following the break-in period won’t cancel your new car’s warranty, but if it’s obvious that the car has been mistreated, it could affect warranty coverage. So, enjoy driving your new car, but take it easy for the first few kilometers to get to know each other.