Don’t Warm Up Your Car: A NASA Engineer Explains Why
Introduction
In the winter months, it’s tempting to warm up your car before you drive it. After all, it’s cold outside, and you don’t want to get into a freezing cold car. But did you know that warming up your car is actually bad for it?
That’s right, according to NASA engineer Chris Gerdes, warming up your car is a waste of gas and can damage your engine.
Why Warming Up Your Car Is Bad
There are a few reasons why warming up your car is bad.
- It wastes gas. When you idle your car, it’s using gas but not going anywhere. This can add up to a lot of wasted gas over time.
- It can damage your engine. When you idle your car, the engine doesn’t get enough oil. This can cause the engine to wear out prematurely.
- It can pollute the air. When you idle your car, it emits harmful pollutants into the air. These pollutants can contribute to smog and other air quality problems.
What to Do Instead
So what should you do instead of warming up your car? Gerdes recommends simply driving away slowly.
When you drive away slowly, the engine will warm up gradually as you drive. This will help to reduce wear and tear on the engine and save you gas.
If you’re really concerned about the cold weather, you can always use a remote starter to start your car a few minutes before you leave. This will give the engine a chance to warm up without you having to sit in a cold car.
Conclusion
So there you have it. Warming up your car is bad for your car, your wallet, and the environment. Instead, simply drive away slowly and let the engine warm up as you drive.
Additional Tips
- Keep your car tuned up. A well-tuned car will run more efficiently and warm up faster.
- Use the right oil for your car. The wrong oil can make it harder for the engine to warm up.
- Park in a garage or other sheltered area. This will help to keep your car warm and reduce the amount of time it takes to warm up.
By following these tips, you can help to keep your car running smoothly and save money on gas.
