The RAC has issued a clear warning to motorists across the UK, urging them to stop the common winter habit of letting their car engine idle to warm up before a journey.
Why Idling Your Engine is a Waste
According to the motoring organisation, this practice provides no benefit to the modern vehicle and serves only to waste fuel and, consequently, money. The RAC explained that while many people start their engine on cold mornings to let it warm, this is not required for the car to operate optimally.
Cars are at their least efficient when cold, and driving off promptly, while being gentle on the accelerator, is the recommended approach. The only exception is the short time it might take to defog the windscreen and windows for clear visibility.
The Risks of 'Mechanical Unsympathy'
The RAC emphasised that driving aggressively with a cold engine compounds the problem. "If you drive quickly straight from start-up, you are redoubling the wasted fuel, and also wearing out the engine more quickly," they stated. This is because the engine's lubricating oil is not yet at its proper operating temperature, leading to increased wear.
Instead, drivers should show 'mechanical sympathy' by accelerating gently and keeping revs low until the engine reaches its normal temperature. The advice is clear: today's engines are designed to operate from the moment you start them, and idling for more than a few seconds is no longer needed.
Practical Tips for Winter Driving Comfort and Safety
For those who dislike a cold cabin, the RAC suggests considering vehicles with heated seats and steering wheels, which use less energy than heating the entire interior. However, they caution drivers to remember to switch these features off once warmed up to avoid unnecessary fuel consumption.
With recent icy conditions, the RAC also reiterated broader winter safety advice. They recommend waiting around sixty minutes after dawn to avoid the peak risk of invisible 'black ice' on the roads, a time when many accidents occur as drivers underestimate slippery conditions.
Furthermore, they highlighted that modern car batteries can struggle in sub-zero temperatures. Keeping a set of jump leads and a warm blanket in the boot is considered essential for winter preparedness.
