Engine break-in - what is it and how long does it take? Is an engine break-in necessary in modern car models?

The accuracy of engines in new cars is very high. This is why little is said today about the importance of engine break-in. However, this action can positively affect the operation of the power unit in the future and will avoid breakdowns. Check how much to break in the engine after a major overhaul and how to do it.

What is engine break-in?

A few decades ago, cars were produced in completely different conditions.. The manufacturing process was less precise and the lubricants used at the time were of much lower quality than those used today. This created the need to be careful when using the vehicle for the first time. Engine components had to adapt to work properly in the future.

Excessive loads can reduce the durability of the drive. The instructions say to save the engine for several thousand kilometers. The car ran much better after that. These precautions apply to:

• lower fuel consumption;
• longer engine life;
• less oil consumption.

Engine break-in is mentioned not only in the context of new cars, but also those that have undergone a major overhaul of the unit.

How to break in the engine after overhaul - tips

If your car has had an engine overhaul, there are some very important rules you must follow. Parts may not yet be fully matched, and the engine may fail under heavy loads.

How to break in the engine after overhaul? Primarily: 

• avoid large and rapid changes in speed;
• avoid driving too long on highways and expressways - a run-in engine responds well to small changes in speed;
• do not use engine braking, i.e. do not downshift to reduce vehicle speed;
• avoid heavy loads, do not accelerate the car at full speed;
• try to avoid too low revolutions, which also adversely affect the break-in;
• do not accelerate the car to maximum speed;
• try to drive as long as possible.

Breaking in an engine after an overhaul is important and every qualified mechanic mentions it.

Engine running-in at idle speed

In workshops, you can often find an engine running in after a major overhaul - it runs at idle. It consists of leaving the engine running for a few hours or a few days. Mechanics considered this method to be very gentle on the engine. In fact, it can be very dangerous for your car! Here's why you shouldn't:

• at low speeds, the oil pump produces too little pressure, so the engine does not have enough lubrication;
• at idle, the pressure valve of the piston cooling spray system does not open;
• the turbocharger is exposed to too little lubricant;
• rings do not provide a proper seal.

Running the engine at idle can cause excessive wear or even damage!

How long should an engine run after a major overhaul?

The engine must be run-in for about 1500 km, this is necessary so that all its parts fit together. A well-run engine lasts longer and is less prone to damage.

After completing the engine break-in, do not forget to change the oil and oil filter. Do this even if their appearance does not indicate the need for replacement. Also pay attention to the temperature of the coolants - an unbroken engine generates much more heat, so do not let it overheat. 

Engine break-in after buying a car

Running in the engine in a new car is governed by the same rules as in cars that have undergone a major overhaul. The drive is partially run-in at the factory, but you still have to do it yourself. In new cars, try to avoid:

• excessive load on the drive;
• sudden accelerations;
• acceleration of the car to maximum speed;

Also, make sure you change your oil frequently. Also, remember that the brake system may also need to be broken in.

Buying a new car is a special day for a driver. However, you need to take proper care of your vehicle. Breaking in your engine will save you a lot of money in the future. In return, you can enjoy safe driving for miles.