Do New Car Engines Need to Break In?

The Old School of Thought

In the past, it was widely believed that new car engines needed to be “broken in” in order to achieve optimal performance and longevity. This belief was based on the idea that the metal parts in the engine needed time to wear in and mate with each other properly.

The break-in process typically involved driving the car gently for the first few hundred miles, avoiding high speeds and heavy loads. Some people also believed that it was important to vary the engine speed during the break-in period, in order to help the piston rings to seal properly.

The New School of Thought

In recent years, the idea of breaking in a new car engine has become more controversial. Some experts now believe that it is unnecessary, and that modern engines are designed to be driven hard from the start.

There are a few reasons for this change in thinking. First, modern engines are manufactured to much tighter tolerances than they were in the past. This means that the metal parts are already very close to their ideal fit, and they do not need to wear in as much.

Second, modern oils are much better at protecting engines than they used to be. They contain additives that help to reduce friction and wear, and they can withstand higher temperatures.

As a result of these factors, many experts now believe that it is safe to drive a new car hard from the start. However, there are still some precautions that you should take, such as:

Avoid full throttle acceleration.
Avoid towing heavy loads.
Change the oil and filter after the first 500 miles.

The Verdict

So, do new car engines need to be broken in? The answer is: it depends. If you have an older car with a less sophisticated engine, it may be a good idea to break it in gently. However, if you have a modern car with a high-quality engine, you can probably drive it hard from the start.

Ultimately, the best way to break in a new car engine is to consult with your owner’s manual. The manufacturer will have specific recommendations for your particular vehicle.