Hey,

So I've just purchased a new TL, it has under 50 miles. I just read a post saying that you need to "break-in" your car. Is it for new cars? Cause I hear that many of the newer engines are already "broken in" before assembly.

If I still need to break-in, what's recommended? I've only read keep it under 4kRPM for the first 500-600 miles.

I have a long trip in 5 days, about 550 miles(all high-way). I'm delivering the car to my Dad. Will this affect anything?

 

It is still a good practice to not keep the vehicle at the same speed and not over 655 for the first 500 miles.

 

Sorry that's over 55 mph for the first 500 miles

 

Well, that's gonna be bad for my car in 4 days then. I almost always go down I95 going 75-85 constant... Might be a loonngg trip.

 

The materials used and tolerances required on modern engines do not require a break-in period as they have in the past (20+ years ago). The piston rings do require a seat, which dictates low rpm throttle blips. This is usually done by the car jockeys at the factory and docks. You shouldn't experience any negative effects from a long trip.

 

I would follow mr. marco's advice, as driving under 55mph is not plausible.
with new cars today, you can just get in and go.

 

The only exception I have seen to this was on the BMW E90 with the moving lighted tach yellow/red line. I think for the first 1,800 miles (and when it is cold) the redline is 5,000rpm. Then it moves up to 8,000rpm(or something equally ridiculous).

 

I live in NC and purchased my 06 tsx from a dealer in Pa. Since that dealer did a dealer trade the car had 138 miles on it. I drove that car from the dealer home. (almost 700 miles) I drove it on 95 and drove it 5 over the speed limit. Highest speed limit is 70. I have had no problems (knock on wood) after 123K+miles. Good luck-enjoy the drive.

 

I too just took possession yesterday of a new 2012 TL. Being a motorcyclist, I am aware of a different school of thought about engine break-in. Here is a link to a cogent explanation of that different concept. I subscribe to this and am practicing it with my new TL. I don't directly advocate this to others, as I am not an engineer, but I do feel this approach is plausible and well-supported. You may find this interesting and worth some thought.

By the way, just want to echo the previous sentiments about this car--fantastic balance of performance, technology, and luxury. Love it so far.

 

^wheres the link?

oh, the word "HERE"
next time, might wanna change the color.

 

Sorry about that. On other forums I participate in, an inserted link gets a color change automatically. Lesson learned on this one.

 

break-in is always controversial. Either A) baby it or B) flog it. You can do your research to see what you feel comfortable with.

I do something in the middle and keep it tame, but with some occasional 3/4 throttle acceleration runs. I do avoid getting it up all the way to redline though; and no extended "spirited" drives.

 

read your owners manual....

 

great link! Thanks for the info.

 

I would just try to knock the VTEC too often and you should be good.