Should I let my Car Warm Up Before Driving?

As the weather in Chicago turns Colder, The Heated (no pun intended) Debate among Car People is if you need to let your car idle for a few minutes to warm up before taking off.

I was raised with more of the old school thinking, so I say YES, Especially if you have an older car. Give your car a minute or two (Or 5 depending on how cold it is) to warm up before taking off.  This allows that Cold Engine Oil that has been sitting in the oil pan to warm up a bit and get moving where it needs to be to protect vital engine parts.

I’m sure everyone has heard the term “The Oil is the Life Blood for your Car”.

Well I look at it like when I first wake up in the morning. When I get out of bed after a good night sleep, I have to stretch and move around a few moments to get the blood flowing before I’m really ready to get moving for the day.

I’m not saying this needs to be a 15 minute process (Although the interior would be a lot warmer, and it could knock some of the frost off your windows), but at least give it a minute or two to warm up. Maybe take that time to adjust your radio, check your mirrors, and send that last minute text so you are not texting and driving.

Just be sure you are in a well ventilated area. If you park in a garage, be sure the garage door is open, or even better, pull your car out into the driveway.

Redd Walker – You Know, That Red Headed Guy
Van Drunen Ford - Homewood IL
Chicago Land’s Oldest Ford Dealership – Est 1930
708-798-1668
www.VanDrunenFord.com

P.S. Check out our “Go Further with Ford Night” on November 15^th. Show off you Talents as an American Idol Judge and get a chance to win a trip to LA to see American Idol Live or maybe even a Brand New 2013 Ford Fusion. Ford More Details Visit www.vandrunenford.net/Go-Further-with-Ford-Night/