Should You Warm Up Your Used Vehicle When it’s Cold Outside?

By Product Expert | Posted in Tips and Tricks on Wednesday, November 30th, 2016 at 5:39 pm
Should You Warm Up Your Used Vehicle When it is Cold Outside

Brr! It is starting to get cold here in Indianapolis! The mornings can be especially nippy, and it makes us tempted to start up our car and let it warm up before driving to work or school. The debate over whether to let the engine idle for a few minutes on cold mornings has been debated over the years, and we are excited to share the latest facts in order to keep your used vehicle in tip-top shape!

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The Low-Down on Idling the Engine

Multiple sources suggest that starting up your vehicle on a cold morning is not necessary, and it only does more harm than good.

Infographic about warming used vehicles in the cold

What is the Best Way to Get My Used Vehicle to Warm Up on a Cold Morning?

We recommend driving your vehicle (but be gentle) to get it to warm up. If you feel the need to start the vehicle and let it idle (such as when the windows are fogged over), the magic amount is 10 to 30 seconds. That is the perfect amount of time to brush away snow and scrape away ice from the windshield! By the time you are finished, your car will be a little warmer for your own personal comfort without ruining the mechanical components!

Here are Some Tips for Getting Your Used Vehicle Ready for Winter!

Come to Joe’s Auto Sales with Any Questions!

If you have any questions about caring for used vehicles, please feel free to contact Joe’s Auto Sales at 317.243.2269 or stop by our dealership at 3250 West Washington Street in Indianapolis! Or if you are looking for a high-quality used vehicle, check out our inventory!