Do You Need to Break In a New Car Engine?

The Answer is: Yes

When you buy a new car, it’s important to break in the engine properly. This will help your engine last longer and perform better. Breaking in an engine involves driving it gently for the first 500 to 1,000 miles.

During this time, you should avoid:

Driving at high speeds
Towing heavy loads
Racing the engine

You should also change your oil and filter after the first 500 miles.

Why Break In an Engine?

There are a few reasons why you need to break in a new car engine.

To help the piston rings seal. The piston rings are responsible for sealing the combustion chamber and preventing oil from leaking into the cylinders. When the engine is new, the piston rings are not fully seated. Breaking in the engine allows the piston rings to conform to the shape of the cylinder walls, which creates a better seal.
To help the bearings wear in. The bearings are responsible for supporting the crankshaft and connecting rods. When the engine is new, the bearings are not fully worn in. Breaking in the engine allows the bearings to wear in gradually, which helps to prevent premature failure.

How to Break In a New Car Engine

To break in a new car engine, follow these steps:

Start by driving the car around town for the first 50 miles. This will help the engine to warm up and begin to break in.
After the first 50 miles, you can start to drive at highway speeds. However, avoid driving at high speeds for extended periods of time.
After the first 500 miles, you can start to tow light loads. However, avoid towing heavy loads for extended periods of time.
After the first 1,000 miles, you can start to race the engine. However, avoid racing the engine for extended periods of time.
Change the oil and filter after the first 500 miles.

Conclusion

Breaking in a new car engine is an important part of maintaining your vehicle. By following these steps, you can help your engine last longer and perform better.