I am picking up my new 05 TL Saturday, but the dealer is about 2 hours away. I was reading about the break-in period and not driving the car at steady speeds for long periods of time. I will be driving the car on an interstate most of the way, probably 60-70mph for 2 hours. Is this not a good idea?

 

you be ok.

 

It won't hurt. What they mean by steady speed is putting the cruise control at 70mph and driving a couple of hundred miles without changing the speed.


If you just drive normally, and drive at your normal interstate speed, then slow down a little for traffic, then speed up again to pass, which is usually the way it works, then you will be ok.

Also, no racing starts, and no panic stops unless for emergency. This helps the brakes seat correctly.

 

Great. I'm glad this won't be a problem, as I wasn't prepared to not get my new ride this weekend. I'm like a little kid waiting to get at the damn candy jar, haha. It's rediculous, really. Thanks for the response, guys.

 

Then of course, change the oil/filter with Havoline 5w-20/PureOne Filter between 600-1000 miles.

Then do three 3K intervals after that before extending drains.

Michael

 

You probably should vary your speed during the break-in period. Maybe 55 mph for 10 miles, then 65 mph for another 10, etc. If that gives you problems, then vary the engine rpms by shifting from 6th to 5th (manual) or 5th to 4th (auto), then back. Don't use the cruise control for the first 600 miles or so. if this scenario really frustrates you, don't worry about it. Not doing these things will probably not trash your new ride. Just enjoy the car....it's fun to drive.

 

Try shifting to a lower gear about every 10 minutes.. much the same effect as varying your speed. But be careful not to run the engine up to high when you do this.

 

Just find people on the way home to race.

 

Haha. Probably not a good idea

 

just jump on what i call the "fast lane" train every now and then, and then jump back to the middle lane...varying speeds, should be ok for u

 

i would vary the rpm rather than just speed, this is what most forums recommend for breaking any motor in.

 

This subject always tends to get overrated/analyzed..

Just drive it "maturely". Like others stated: no hard stops or full throttle launches etc. Much of the "break-in" mentioned for new vehicles is for the drivetrain. With the way engines are designed now days, "engine break-in" is not near a requirement as it was in the distant past.

Just be "nice" to your TL and "slowly" introduce it to your style of driving. Doing this through the 600-1000 mile point "should" give you the best outcome/peace of mind.

I too must agree with Michael Wan,,, It's stated that Honda uses a specific "break-in" oil but I would not run this oil as long as the MID has you.... After reading many of MW's posts and oil analysis info I respect his advice and recommended oil etc. It does appear to be as good/better than Honda's and would be the best if changing the break-in oil early (not to mention used for all subsequent oil changes).

Best of luck - enjoy the ride / your TL!!

 

when and how long does this break in period last? i heard that cars come with their engines broke in at the factory. I have 400 miles and decided to gun the car today (on a roll). Not from a stop of course (don't knwo how to do that on the 6spd yet )