what is the best engine temperature for me to wait for after starting up the engine before driving off to get the best fuel economy and engine lifetime? been looking in different manuals… couldnt find it except for the not to go temperature. thanks!
Originally posted 2009-09-17 11:04:34.
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{ 3 comments… read them below or add one }
Until the engine is completly warm, the fuel economy wont be the same as when its warm. As for engine life, If you live in a really cold area let it sit for a minute or so. Until it is fully warm dont drive the car super hard. Cars of today arnt so delicate like they used to be. At least wait till the idle drops down to normal when you first start it.
Do not let the engine idle at all. There is nothing worse for it, even in cold weather. You’re also wasting a lot of gas. Just drive conservatively until it’s fully warmed up.
Answer 1 is correct, the car can be driven as soon as the idle drops from high idle to normal. A minute or two of idle in very cold weather is not going to do any harm and will certainly extend the life of your engine because it allows the oil to flow completely before accelerational stresses are put on it. If the weather is extremely cold you may wish to wait until you see any movement from the temperature indicator before driving.