Learn the real truth about warming up your car in cold weather

By Product Expert | Posted in Tips on Thursday, January 21st, 2016 at 9:31 pm

Do I need to Warm Up My Car When it’s Cold Outside

For more years than I can remember, I’ve been warming up my car in the winter before I drive it so it can be nice and toasty when I get into it. I’ve also always been told that it is good for your engine to get it warm before you start driving it in cold temperatures. Well, just like so many other myths, this one is totally false, well at least nowadays. So how many times have you asked yourself “ do I need to warm up my car when it’s cold outside?” I’m sure it’s been a lot. Just think of all the time and gas we’ve all wasted over the years. So what’s the real truth about warming up your car before you drive it when it’s cold out?

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Truth About Warming Up Your Car

The truth is that warming up you car when it’s cold outside is not only unnecessary, but it also wastes gas and is potentially even hurting your engine, not helping it. Your vehicle’s engine will warm up faster and more safely when you start driving it so you don’t have to waste time or gas by warming it up before you hit the road. This myth that we’ve all heard has roots dating back to the time when a vehicle’s carburetor was an essential component. Those days are long gone thanks to electronic fuel injection systems.

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How Should You Warm Up Your Car?

Even though you can now forego the long warm-up period, you should still be careful when driving a car with a cold engine. The best thing you can do is to drive with a soft foot. Don’t start slamming on the gas until you car’s engine has properly warmed up. At least we don’t have to run out our cars in the freezing cold to start them up anymore. Now all you have to do is hop in, wait a minute, then start driving.