It used to be common knowledge that when driving a new car, the driver should be mindful of a break-in period, a certain amount of time wherein one would “baby” the vehicle. This “easing-in” of the new machine lead to longer engine life and smoother functionality overall.
However, there is a division of opinions about modern new vehicles and whether or not they require a break-in period. Does the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI need to be broken in?
According to the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Owner’s Manual, a new engine must be carefully broken in during the first 1,000 miles (1600 kilometers). This is due to that fact that during the first few hours of driving, the engine’s internal friction is higher than usual. After the break-in period, all the moving parts should be settled into their proper ways of being, thereby operating with greater harmony and less unwarranted heat.
How do I break in a 2019 Golf GTI engine?
To break in the engine of your 2019 Golf GTI, Volkswagen recommends three pointers:
- Do not use the full throttle.
- Do not let the engine speed get above 2/3 of the maximum speed.
- Speed may be gradually increased to the maximum permissible road and engine speed.
Why is it recommended to break in the engine of a new 2019 VW Golf GTI?
Though it’s likely true that breaking in an engine on a modern cars is not as important as it was in years past, we’re going to recommend it for the 2019 Golf GTI simply because that’s what Volkswagen has put in its official Owner’s Manual for the model. Volkswagen explains that a vehicle’s total engine life is related how one drives for the first 1,000 miles. A gentle break-in increases the vehicle’s service life and reduces oil consumption.
Does driving slowly help a car last longer?
Even after the initial break-in, sticking to moderate speeds when driving can help to reduce engine wear, thereby allowing the powerplant to last longer and go farther. This slower-driving recommendation is especially applicable when the engine is cold.
On the other hand, VW also recommends against driving at excessively low engine speeds. If the engine of your vehicle is not running smoothly, downshift.
Break-In Procedures for Parts
In addition to engine break-in parameters, there are separate requirements for braking in other new parts of a vehicle, such as new tires, wheels, and brakes. The info for proper procedures for these pieces can also be found in the 2019 Volkswagen Golf GTI Owner’s Manual, which luckily is easily accessible online. (link)