Do New Cars Still Require a Break-In Period?
Modern engineering is more robust, but there are still important factors to consider during the early miles of most new cars
It used to be that a new car required a detailed break-in period to protect the engine and extend its longevity. But has modern technology made cars more robust and break-in periods obsolete?
“I reached out to a manufacturer, in this case, Volvo, and they said there is no prescribed or necessary break-in procedure with their newer cars,” says Mike Monticello, Consumer Reports’ road-test manager. “They said that the powertrain continuously adapts to the driver’s style, and because of that a break-in period is not really necessary.”
But many automakers do still give instructions for new-car owners. For example, the owner’s manual for Consumer Reports’ 2022 Ford Maverick small pickup says “your vehicle requires a break-in period.” Ford recommends that for the first 1,000 miles owners should avoid driving at high speeds, heavy braking, aggressive shifting, or using your vehicle to tow.
The owner’s manual for the 2021 Hyundai Santa Fe that CR tested was more specific about what you should and shouldn’t do during the first 600 miles. And for the most part, the commonsense suggestions given are generally a good idea for any new vehicle. As such, Hyundai says that by following these few, simple precautions “you may add to the performance, economy, and life of your vehicle.” Hyundai suggests to not race the engine (which means don’t push it hard, such as performing a full-throttle start off the line). Keep your engine speed between 2,000 and 4,000 rpm; don’t maintain one constant speed for long periods of time (meaning that, even if you’re on the highway, be sure to vary your speed often during those first 600 miles—this allows the piston rings to seal properly, reducing premature wear to the engine). And avoid unnecessary hard stops so that the brakes will “seat” properly. Overheating your brake pads and rotors with sudden stops can glaze the rotors and reduce braking effectiveness. Hyundai also says owners should not tow a trailer during the Santa Fe’s first 1,200 miles.
And what about electric vehicles? We couldn’t find a single word anywhere within our 2022 Kia EV6 owner’s manual regarding new-car break-in. That’s because “they are ready to go, right out of the box,” a Kia representative told us. “Another benefit of EV ownership.”
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Editor’s Note: This article has been adapted from an episode of “Talking Cars.”
