How To Break In A New Car
Vehicles are made out of parts that need to synchronize after getting assembled in order to achieve optimum performance. Believe it or not, the longevity of your vehicle will depend on how you treat it when it is new. That’s why car manufacturers have the ‘break-in period’ where they recommend certain precautions, driving techniques and maintenance assignments to improve the performance and prolong the lifespan of your vehicle.
Of course, it’s important to consult your owner’s manual for the specific break-in period instructions. The typical break-in period for most modern cars is around 500 miles. Before hitting that target, the most common break-in period recommendations include:
Administer The First Oil Change After 50 To 100 Miles
Sure, when the vehicle has been on the road for a long time, you can even change the oil after 5,000 miles. However, when a car is brand new straight out of the factory, you should change the oil after 50 or 100 miles. Later, you can change the oil after the recommended break-in period mileage.
Keep Revs Under The 3,000 Rpm Mark
Do you know why you should keep the revs under the 3,000 rpm mark? Because the piston rings need to interlock with the cylinder bores tightly. Keep in mind that the piston rings are necessary to prevent oil leakage and if you rev the engine too much, you can disrupt the whole process.
Drive At Speeds Of 30 Mph And 50 Mph
Since most people are tempted to test the high speed and acceleration of their new automobile, this sure does seem like something most drivers would forget. However, it may pay off eventually if you don’t exceed the suggested run-in period speed limit. For convenience, you can opt to drive around urban areas where you can keep it between 30 mph and 50 mph.