As temperatures drop and winter sets in, many drivers still believe that warming up their cars before driving is essential for engine health. American auto expert Ron Krauch is challenging this long standing belief. With decades of experience, from his early days in his father’s repair shop to working with major automotive brands like Ford and Pontiac, Krauch offers insights that could change how drivers treat their vehicles in cold weather.
Why Prolonged Warming May Harm the Engine
Krauch explained that modern cars, especially those equipped with electronic fuel injection systems, do not require long warming periods. In fact, he emphasized that leaving a car idling without driving does not benefit the engine; instead, it can cause unnecessary wear on its components and increase fuel consumption.
He suggested that drivers should begin driving shortly after starting the car, even if the cabin remains cold. Idling for just 30 seconds to a minute is sufficient before setting off gently, as driving warms up the engine more quickly and efficiently than idling.
This approach not only reduces fuel consumption but also extends the life of engine components and lowers the risk of breakdowns caused by thermal stress from prolonged idling.
How to Reduce Fuel Consumption and Protect Your Car in Winter
Krauch didn’t stop at warm up advice; he also offered additional practical tips to help drivers save on maintenance and fuel costs during winter. One key recommendation is to avoid using premium fuel unless it is truly necessary. He clarified that high octane fuel provides no real benefit for most standard vehicles unless specifically designed to require it, as premium fuel is typically intended for luxury or high performance cars.
He also emphasized the importance of ensuring that essential vehicle components are in good condition before temperatures drop. This includes checking headlights, taillights, turn signals, fog lights, tire pressure, tread depth, and windshield wipers.
Additionally, Krauch highlighted a simple way to avoid sudden tire failures in cold weather: using a tire pressure gauge. This inexpensive tool fits easily in the glove compartment and allows drivers to regularly monitor tire pressure, which tends to drop significantly in colder temperatures.
These tips confirm that smart car maintenance during winter doesn’t require expensive tools or advanced equipment. Instead, it relies on a proper understanding of modern vehicle systems and avoiding outdated practices that may cause more harm than good.
