Running in a new engine (1.6 FSI)

[number_six]

Do modern engines still need to be run in?  Specifically the new engine in the MK5 (1.6 FSI)

If so how long for and when will the engine likely to start running at its optimum performance?

Cheers

[Dizzie]

probably a bit like new speakers. run them at half volume for a few weeks or 2 months until they've losened up. I wouldn't do hitting the red line just yet!

[Mk2Gti8v]

I know audi recommend that you dont drive using full throttle or more that 3/4 engine speed for the first 1000km then increase it to the engine or road maximum, but i'm sure it is mentioned in the owners handbook

[GTi5]

i bought a bran spanker of a clio (dont ask) two years ago and the sales women whispered that to get the best performance from your engine, you should redline it for the first 100 miles then take it steady. i did'nt bother though cos it was my first new car.
other than that it took a good couple of thousand before it was properly loose

[number_six]

Two things that worry me about the last comment:

1. A woman gave you advice on running in a new car.    (Only Joking, I'm sure that most of the women on here know more than I do !   )

2. That advice was to Red Line it on a new engine?

[turbo]

they need running in smoothly bed them in fast and they wear out fast! it doesnt matter with brakepads easy replaced where as the engine is alot harder and exspensive to replace............

check your oil levels!!! as new engines can burn up to
1.5ml thats 1.5 litre! per 1000km thats 600 mile!!!!!!

volkswagen told people in america this as people were complaining of high oil consumption they said its
normal for it to do this!!

most people dont know how to check the oil and new cars burn oil!!!!! and halfords said that 3 out of 5 cars have seriously low oil levels........
and we all wonder why they say 75000 miles is high mileage! thats fcuk all i have 200000 on mine and its still going raced my mate tonight in his 8v gti with 130000 on his and  i was slowly leaving him....... but sometimes he leaves me the same.........but they are both the same performance his is 1992 late mk 2 mines 1987 mk 2! but mine does have 200000 miles on orignal engine.......till yet no internal engine work has been done!!!!!!!

so you want your engine to last ask me!

good oil, good filter genuine, and always check levels
make sure oil doesnt drop below minimum!

[Dizzie]

people always moan about our high mileage cars, but mine rarely breaks down. The only things I've replaced in the last 2 and a half years are an engine mount (front) and the alternator (i need a 90A one anyway)

[S11EPS]

Not sure what running in procedures are any more, I'm sure it will say in the owners manual.

Two points to consider;

The police (one of the UK's largest fleet operators) do not run in cars - as soon as they are delivered, they are out on the streets getting caned.

Every company car I've ever had has been caned from new - and have been considerably quicker than colleagues cars who choose to follow the recommended running in procedure.

However, in both examples the cars generally get swapped after three years, so I can't comment on the long term effects!!

You pays your money, you takes your choice!

[Dizzie]

the people that just buy a new car and run it for 3 years and then buy another new car suck. they just don't look after them  

a woman came onto our forecourt to fill up with petrol and steam was pouring out from under the bonnet of her '52 plate. I had to say to put water in! she said she was just going to get her husband to sort it out  

[mk1]

I don't think modern engines need to be run in like in the good old days. With modern machining there is less bedding in and modern oils offer a lot better protection. On another point, how many people run in white vans, I know I didn't . Have not seen any problems and they are sold on with big miles. Just my 2p's worth.
Steve.