Congratulations—you just got a brand-new car! Whether it’s your first vehicle or an exciting upgrade, it’s tempting to take it for a spin and see what it can do. But before you push the pedal down, it’s important to properly break in your car to ensure it runs smoothly for years to come.
Properly breaking in your new vehicle helps minimize early engine wear, keeps oil flowing evenly, and allows components like the piston rings, transmission, and brakes to settle in correctly. These early miles set the stage for your car’s long-term health and performance.
Avoid Extreme Acceleration
We get it—your new car is exciting! But hard acceleration during the first 1,000 miles can strain the engine and internal components. Accelerate gradually, shift gears smoothly, and keep your RPMs moderate to allow everything to wear in properly.
Vary Your Engine Speed
Instead of maintaining one steady speed, change things up. Alternate between city and highway driving, and keep your RPMs under 4,000 during the break-in period. This helps prevent uneven wear on your engine and ensures good lubrication throughout.
Avoid Hard Braking
Your new brake pads and rotors need a few hundred miles to sit evenly. Try to brake gently when possible—hard stops can cause uneven wear and shorten the life of your brakes.
Limit Short Trips
Short drives don’t give your engine enough time to warm up fully. Cold starts put more stress on your oil and engine components, so try to take your new vehicle on longer drives during the first few weeks.
Keep Up with Regular Maintenance
Even after the break-in period, staying on top of maintenance is key to protecting your car’s performance. Regular oil changes, tire rotations, brake checks, and fluid inspections help ensure:
- Better fuel efficiency
- Reduced oil consumption
- Longer engine life
- Improved reliability
Trust the Experts at Kirk’s Wheel & Tire
Don’t wait until small issues turn into big repairs. The experienced technicians at Kirk’s Wheel & Tire in Waveland, MS provide expert care to keep your new car performing its best.
Protect Your Safety and Your Wallet
Maintaining your brakes isn’t just about avoiding costly repairs—it’s about peace of mind every time you hit the road. With smart driving habits and regular service, you can improve brake performance, extend their lifespan, and avoid emergencies.
At Charlie’s Tire Service in Brevard, NC, our technicians provide thorough brake inspections, repairs, and replacements to keep you safe.
