Students in Auto Mechanic Training: Here Are 4 Tips for Breaking in New Cars

Bring up the topic of breaking in cars around car enthusiasts and you’re probably in for a lengthy and passionate debate. With current advancements in vehicle technology, many argue that it’s no longer necessary to break in cars. On the other hand, many experts believe the process of breaking a car in is essential in order to ensure the engine works properly for years to come. One thing is for sure, whether you’re for breaking in a car or not, it can’t hurt to try. With the majority of major vehicle manufacturers like Ford and Honda still recommending break in periods, it’s in new car owners’ best interests to comply.

Do you have a passion for cars? Thinking of pursuing automotive training? Check out these four tips you can provide your future clients about breaking in their new vehicle.

1. Pros with Auto Mechanic Training Know to Refer to the Owner’s Manual

The owner’s manual of a vehicle is a highly underused resource. Sitting in the glove compartment, it’s a treasure trove of useful information straight from the manufacturers themselves. As a student in an automotive technology program you may refer to the owner’s manual for guidance while servicing a vehicle, but it has many other uses. Once you begin your career, you can let your clients know it contains valuable information about break in procedures and break in distance.

A vehicle’s owner’s manual should list the distance duration of the break in period. It should also list recommendations from the manufacturer about how to drive during the first few kilometres. It is best for your clients to follow these practices while breaking in a vehicle.

2. Pros with Auto Mechanic Training Know to Avoid Hauling or Towing

Most experts with auto mechanic training will agree that when breaking in a vehicle, it’s best to avoid towing. This could include a motor home or a trailer. When a vehicle’s engine is brand new, the different parts are still becoming lubricated and are adjusting to working with each other. Putting large amounts of strain on the engine by towing something heavy could be a shock to the engine parts and cause them to break in incorrectly. This may lead to expensive issues and breakdowns for your customers in the future.

3. Graduates of an Automotive Technology Program May Know to Vary the Car’s Driving

While breaking in a car, owners need to “warm up” their engine to all modes of driving. This is why it’s generally recommended to avoid driving at one set speed for long periods of time during the break in period. New vehicle owners should avoid long road trips or highway driving. Instead, opting for city driving with stop and go traffic is more effective. By taking the car through the motions of stopping, going, accelerating, and shifting, the engine is broken in effectively for all driving situations.

4. Graduates of an Automotive Technology Program May Know to Go Easy

Although slightly controversial, experts generally agree that a car should be broken in easily. This means that for the indicated amount of kilometres that make up the break in period, the owner shouldn’t push the vehicle too hard. They should avoid sudden breaking, and also make sure not to floor the gas pedal. Many experts agree the driver shouldn’t push the vehicle past 3,000 RPM on the dashboard tachometer. This helps drivers avoid demanding too much of their engines before they are functioning at their best.

This pointer is debatable among experts, with some believing the best way to achieve top performance is by pushing the vehicle hard right out of the gate. It’s best to let your clients know to use their judgement, and choose the approach they think is best for their car.

Are you interested in pursuing training and an auto mechanic apprenticeship in Cambridge?

Contact an advisor at Automotive Training Centres today to get started!