How long do I have to warm up my car in the winter before driving it in the morning?

(2011-11-06 14:25:05)

1. Abi120 Says: Its a 1999 Oldsmobile and the h/c bar is always at cold in the morning.

2. p.o.ed Says: You really only need to warm it up for about 30 seconds. When you let it idle for that time you are giving the oil time to circulate. Older cars without fuel injection might need longer, which is why people still think they need to let it idle for so long. Also people don't like getting into cold cars. If you look at the engine temp and it is low, it's OK. When you drive it will warm up to the proper temp. It will also warm up faster than you would idle.

3. oogabooga37 Says: Some people believe you should let it warm up, but others believe you should drive right away, albeit gently for the first few miles. Either way, it's best to use synthetic oil and use one of the recommended viscosities which is thinner for colder temperatures. The better flow rate at low temperatures will provide much better protection. I pay about $11 more per oil change, but it pays off in longer oil life between changes, and in longer engine life.