Running-in

[mike1222]

Can anyone please tell me if modern cars require to be run in from new?  Years ago new cars were run in by being driven at low speed for the first 1,000 miles or so - does this still apply?

[Jackson74]

yes, still applies, just bought new focus and told to treat it right for the first 1000-1500 miles.  Done 800 and can feel the car becoming a little nippier though!

[ianess]

Definitely a good idea to let new parts "bed in" for a while and to keep engine revs low for the first 1000 miles. Even with modern engineering tolerances it's still good practice.  After its first oil change gradually increase the revs and the road speed and you'll be rewarded with a properly run-in motor.  Start thrashing it too soon and you will only be storing up future problems.

[derekpara]

 I agree with the above answers. Also, rather surprisingly, new engines sometimes consume oil at an alarming rate, so it's a good idea to check the dipstick regularly once a week.  My  04 VW Golf used a lot of oil for the first 3000 miles but is fine now.

[paddy_36]

Sorry to digress a bit, but I'm really interested in derekpara's comment about the Golf being a bit of an oil guzzler. I've got a 54, and when the oil light came on after a few months I couldn't believe it. Checked at my local VW garage and they said it was right enough. Have done 13000 miles in 9 months, have done 2 full top-ups and oil light has just come on again. This can't be right, can it?

P.S. Tried to keep revs low for first couple of thousand miles!

[derekpara]

Paddy, I would have thought your Golf would have settled down by now, but I think VW engines are VERY tight when new. Mine stopped using oil quite suddenly after a full service. I hope yours will do the same soon. Thank heavens for oil warning lights, eh ?  Good luck.

[maggie01]

when I bought mine a 54 It said in my book that there was no need to run in but not to idle in any one gear too long. Its only a small engine though.

[dilligaf]

Always treated a new car with respect keeping an eye on revs rather than speed.
It' s a shame to see when I use the A1, keeping to the legal 70mph limit how many new cars being delivered on trade plates overtake at 80-90+ mph,.

[paddy_36]

Thanks derekpara, you've put my mind at rest. On long life servicing so the wee spanner should appear soon! Those warning lights on the dash are a godsend...