New engine-no breakin period?
07-01-04, 08:12 AM
#1
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New engine-no breakin period?
A few of you were kind enough to remind me when I received my new engine in my 2000 RX300 to follow the engine break in requirements. I am picking up the car today and asked the dealer about this and he said there are no special instructions for the brand new engine. He said the "break in" period is something of the past......I am confused!!! Help.
Thanks
Erin
Thanks
Erin
07-01-04, 05:01 PM
#3
The Owner's Manual for the '04 RX 330 says:
"Drive gently and avoid high speeds. You need not follow a break–in schedule with your new Lexus. But following a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add to the future economy and long life of your vehicle: Avoid full throttle acceleration when starting and driving. Avoid racing the engine. Try to avoid hard stops during the first 300 km (200 miles). Do not drive for a long time at any single speed, either fast or slow. Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500 miles)."
As I recall, the break-in instructions for my '01 Highlander, which was a 3.0L V6 like an RX 300, were extremely similar.
Enjoy.
"Drive gently and avoid high speeds. You need not follow a break–in schedule with your new Lexus. But following a few simple tips for the first 1600 km (1000 miles) can add to the future economy and long life of your vehicle: Avoid full throttle acceleration when starting and driving. Avoid racing the engine. Try to avoid hard stops during the first 300 km (200 miles). Do not drive for a long time at any single speed, either fast or slow. Do not tow a trailer during the first 800 km (500 miles)."
As I recall, the break-in instructions for my '01 Highlander, which was a 3.0L V6 like an RX 300, were extremely similar.
Enjoy.
Last edited by jayskinner; 07-01-04 at 05:27 PM.
07-02-04, 10:18 AM
#5
Out of Warranty
Yeah, the break-in is not so critical as it used to be now that machining tolerences are so close and finishing is of such good quality. You used to have to DIY the bearing finishes as you drove. It's still a good idea to take it easy for the first 1500 mi. just to let everything "settle in". As the engine heats up and cools there will be some stresses that will seek new accomodation within the block structure, but that's normal and the primary reason behind the "break in" procedure in the manual. No worries!
At one time engines were shipped "wet" that is with a "break-in" oil in the crankcase that should be changed at 1000 mi. or so. Your dealer probably installed a regular 10W-30 Valvoline, or similar product which should be just fine until your first scheduled oil change at 5K or so. Good luck and enjoy your new Lexus!!
At one time engines were shipped "wet" that is with a "break-in" oil in the crankcase that should be changed at 1000 mi. or so. Your dealer probably installed a regular 10W-30 Valvoline, or similar product which should be just fine until your first scheduled oil change at 5K or so. Good luck and enjoy your new Lexus!!
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