GolfGTIforum.co.uk

Model specific boards => Golf mk8 => Topic started by: Megy_CS on 09 June 2021, 18:29

Title: Running in a new car
Post by: Megy_CS on 09 June 2021, 18:29

Hi all.

What's people's thoughts on running in a new car, limits for how many miles?

Thanks in advance

Title: Re: Running in a new car
Post by: Acegadget on 09 June 2021, 21:19

I have been 90% steady so occasional thrashing and will do for 1,000miles

Title: Re: Running in a new car
Post by: SRGTD on 09 June 2021, 22:30

Pretty much drive it normally, but treat it with a degree of mechanical sympathy during the first 1,000 miles and observe a few sensible precautions;

• avoid excessive engine revs or letting the engine labour in any gear.
• vary the engine speed and change gear regularly so the engine’s not just maintaining a set rpm in any gear for prolonged periods.
• always let the engine oil get up to optimum temperature before driving enthusiastically - not just during the first 1,000 miles, but always.
• bed the brakes in during the first couple of hundred miles and avoid excessively hard braking, unless it’s necessary to do so for emergency or accident avoidance reasons.
• be aware that the tyre treads may still have some mould release agent on them from the tyre manufacturing process so may be slippery - as a result, grip levels may be less than normal until this has been scrubbed off during the first few miles of driving.
• check fluid levels regularly, especially oil, as some new engines can use a little oil during the first few thousand miles. IMO, better to be proactive and carry out manual checks rather than reactive and waiting for the oil warning light to come on.

On the other hand, if it’s a lease car, drive it like you stole it! :grin:

Title: Re: Running in a new car
Post by: Adam T7 on 10 June 2021, 08:57

All above but also let it warm down for 30 seconds after stopping - might be a bit old school but used to help protect turbos

Title: Re: Running in a new car
Post by: monkeyhanger on 10 June 2021, 10:15

Quote from: Adam T7 on 10 June 2021, 08:57

All above but also let it warm down for 30 seconds after stopping - might be a bit old school but used to help protect turbos

Very old school - VWs keep cooling recirculation going after switch off. VAG also limit output on their cars until the oil reaches 70C, this has been in place since the introduction of the MK7 Golf.

Title: Re: Running in a new car
Post by: Foxy367 on 18 June 2021, 13:35

I didn't know that, however wouldn't know as I've never thrashed a cold car either so wouldnt really find out!