This is why you should not leave your car warming up in winter

On cold winter mornings, the idea of ​​warming up your car before setting off may seem like a logical one. However, this practice, inherited from old carburettor engines, is no longer suitable for modern cars. Not only is it unnecessary, but it can also damage your engine, increase your fuel costs and worsen your environmental impact. So, how long should you really wait before hitting the road? The answer may surprise you.

How long should you warm up your car in winter?

Contrary to popular belief,  30 seconds is all it takes  to get your engine ready to go. According to automotive expert Margarette Stine, this time allows the engine oil to circulate and lubricate  critical components . After this time, it’s best to drive your car right away: this will warm up the engine faster and more efficiently than idling it.

The old practice of letting the engine idle for 10 minutes or more is a thing of the past. Modern cars, equipped with electronic fuel injection systems, no longer need it. On the contrary,  letting the engine idle for too long can increase its wear and tear  and lead to unnecessary fuel costs.

Why does driving warm up the engine better?

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