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Is it important to warm up your car in winter before driving?

Is it important to warm up your car in winter before driving?
Is it important to warm up your car in winter before driving?

Winter has started, and in many places, the temperature has started going to minus. This is a challenging season for car drivers as most people have a common understanding that they need to leave their car to warm up in the morning before driving. Many people start and leave their car for 15-20 minutes, but this is not correct.

Do you really need to warm up your car?

The answer is no. In cars made 10-20 years ago, it was necessary to warm up the engine like this. Its purpose was that the oil flows well in every part of the car and becomes a little thinner. But cars made with new technology send oil to the entire car within 30 seconds of starting. Modern oils are so much better especially as regards being thinner when not at working temperature.

What do people say about this?

The engine oil formulations have changed greatly since the 50’s. Viscosity is part of the key. Types 10w30, even 5w30 are now common, as are artificial oils. The “w” between the numbers means “performs when cold like 10 or 5 weight/viscosity (see viscous) oil. That’s a measure of how easily it flows. I learned this when I got my driver’s license 63 years ago says Warren Hall on Quora.

It takes very little time for the oil pressure to come up in the cold, especially if you’re using a good synthetic oil. Then, drive slowly until everything warms up. Anything else is wasteful.

I’m shocked that these guys will warm their car for twenty minutes on a cold day and then hammer it when they take off. You can’t possibly warm up the drivetrain by letting your car idle. Everything needs to be warmed up before hammering on your car. says Ricky Dean smith on Quora.

I think one should start the engine first then secure your seat belt, look all around ensuring all OK inside and outside the car. Select the appropriate gear and drive off normally. These extra few minutes allow the oil to circulate and lubricate the bearings. Most damage is done by starting the engine and as soon as possible getting up to high speeds and high engine revs says Nicky Britain on Quora.

Actually, people believe that driving a car in cold weather without heating can damage the engine of their car. This is also true, but you do not need to leave the vehicle running for 15-20 minutes for this, otherwise, you may be fined. Also, you are doing more harm to the environment.

So what can you do?

Your car needs a maximum of two minutes to warm up, for this, you should not increase the speed of the car by more than 20 in the beginning. After driving a few kilometers, your car will come into the flow and you can then drive the car as per your wish.

Always keep in mind that environmental concern is one of our biggest needs today. Don’t use a personal car more than necessary and save nature.

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  • Climate journalist and visual storyteller based in Sehore, Madhya Pradesh, India. He reports on critical environmental issues, including renewable energy, just transition, agriculture and biodiversity with a rural perspective.

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