In the past, it was common for drivers to be advised to warm up their cars for a few minutes before setting off, especially in cold weather. This step was believed to be essential for protecting the engine and improving the vehicle's performance. However, with the advancement of automotive technology, this rule has changed significantly, and it's time to reconsider the habit.

Older cars relied on carburetors—mechanical devices that needed time to properly distribute fuel into the engine, particularly in low temperatures. As a result, warming up the car was necessary to ensure smooth operation and to prevent the engine from stalling.

Today, most modern cars are equipped with Electronic Fuel Injection systems and sophisticated sensors that measure engine temperature and automatically adjust the fuel-air mixture based on current conditions. This means the engine can adapt instantly upon startup, eliminating the need for prolonged idling.

In fact, letting the car idle for too long while stationary can lead to unnecessary fuel consumption and increased emissions without offering any real benefit.

Automotive experts now recommend starting the car and waiting just 30 seconds to one minute before driving off gently. It is safe to begin driving immediately after starting the engine, as long as you avoid hard acceleration or pushing the gas pedal too much during the first few minutes.

In extremely cold regions, it’s advisable to clear ice from the windshield and run the heating system briefly before departure, but primarily for safety and visibility, not for the engine itself.