Why Breaking In a New Car Matters, and the Basic Rules

Every car owner's manual includes a note that a new vehicle needs a break-in period. In this article, we'll explain what that means and why it matters.

Breaking in a new car is essentially preparing it for the long haul. Lately, some people argue that modern cars don't really need it, since part quality no longer requires wearing parts in, and the engine is already adapted during factory testing.

These claims aren't beyond dispute, but they aren't entirely false either. Most specialists agree that it's still better to do a break-in, because the first 3,000 km (about 1,900 miles) have a big influence on the car's future.

Basic Break-In Rules

Every car owner wants their ride to use as little fuel as possible and run reliably for as long as possible. That ideal is out of reach, of course, but you can get as close to it as possible by following a few important rules:

• Don't turn your car into a race car. As tempting as it is to test the transmission and engine right after purchase, hold off for at least the first 1,000-2,000 km (600-1,200 miles).
• Don't let the engine run at a constant rpm. Nearly every owner's manual includes this rule, and it applies to both low and high revs.
• Don't drive at the same speed for long periods. This is a fairly simple rule that doesn't require any fancy driving skills, but following it can significantly improve the car's reliability and fuel economy.
• Avoid hard acceleration and hard braking. Don't drive in sudden jerks, and forget for now about launching from intersections with the pedal to the floor. These simple pleasures raise fuel consumption and aren't good for a new engine.
• Keep the engine in the 2,000-4,000 rpm range. This is considered the most economical mode for a new engine, and during break-in the best speed is 90-110 km/h (55-70 mph).
• Try not to coast in neutral. Specialists consider this too harsh a condition for a new engine. Also make sure the engine doesn't idle for too long, and don't rely on engine braking, since it puts extra load on the engine's main components.

Rules for the Transmission and Braking System

During break-in, it's not only the engine that needs gentle treatment, but the car's other systems as well. For example, brake as smoothly as possible for the first 300-500 km (200-300 miles). This helps the brake pad linings bed in.

A new car's transmission also needs a gentle break-in. Shift gears as smoothly as possible without forcing the lever. Don't press the clutch pedal too abruptly, and don't "drop" it right after engaging a gear. All of this is good for the transmission's synchronizers and the clutch, extending their trouble-free service life.

Finally, remember to check the oil level every day during break-in, and choose smooth paved roads, avoiding extreme off-road driving. If you follow these rules faithfully, your car's break-in will go smoothly and let you enjoy its flawless performance for many years.