“The top mistake drivers make when starting their car that could seriously damage it, according to a mechanic”
Every day, countless people rely on their cars to get to work, school, or run errands. The typical morning routine often looks like this: start the engine, and almost immediately shift into gear to drive off. This habit—rushing to move the car right after starting—is usually driven by a desire to save time.
However, experienced mechanics warn that this seemingly harmless rush can cause serious, long-term engine damage. What feels like saving a few seconds each day can, over months and years, gradually shorten the life of your engine.
Why Engines Need Time for Oil
When a car has been sitting for hours, especially overnight, the engine oil has settled into the oil pan. Once the car starts, the oil pump begins circulating it, but it takes roughly 30 to 40 seconds for the lubricant to reach every critical component.
Shifting into gear immediately means that pistons, cylinders, and bearings start moving at high speed before they are fully protected by oil.
The Hidden Damage: Friction and Wear
When metal parts move without proper lubrication, friction occurs. This doesn’t instantly destroy the engine, but it creates microscopic scratches and wear that accumulate over time, gradually compromising performance and reliability.
Mechanics often see this firsthand. For example, an engine belonging to a driver who always drove off immediately after starting had severely worn main bearings, requiring expensive repairs like precision grinding and part replacement. This shows the damage is real, costly, and completely avoidable.
Simple Steps to Protect Your Engine
The solution is straightforward: a little patience goes a long way.
- Wait for Oil Circulation
Give your engine about 30 seconds before driving, especially in cold weather, to let oil circulate fully and protect moving parts. - Drive Gently at First
For the first few miles, avoid sudden acceleration. Smooth driving lets the engine and all fluids reach optimal operating temperatures gradually.
This small pause may feel almost invisible in a busy day, but it can prevent years of damage and costly repairs. Treating your car with care at the start of each drive is a simple, effective form of maintenance—a reminder that endurance, whether for machines or ourselves, comes from letting things warm up before demanding full performance.
