There has been much debate about if you car should be warmed up before you start driving recent research has shown that up to 75% of engine damage is caused by driving in cold conditions. As there are a lot of fluids within your car this should be mandatory if the weather conditions are below 0 Degrees and weather conditions such as ice or snow. In order for you to know if this is correct let me explain what happens when you start your car in cold weather; 

 

Air comes in through the car air filter, the air temperature is recorded by the cars computer, if it records as cold it will add extra fuel to increase combustion. You should not leave your car to warm up (stationary) unless defrosting. You should drive extremely economically until optimum efficiency temperature is achieved.


Tips on Warming up your car safely.

• When parking your car try to park so that sunlight is on it or will reach it in the morning. This can prevent frosting and help to defrost frozen fluids such as screen wash. Parking in a garage would be ideal however.
  
• When you know it will be a cold night such as ice or snow forecast simply putting a old blanket over your engine (under the bonnet) can reduce power loss within the battery and protect the engine against harsh conditions. Always remember to take it off before you start driving and make sure the engine is cool before placing the blanket on it.
• Always check your window wipers are not frozen to your windscreen as this will instantly damage/bend them when they are operated.
• When starting your car always let the ignition lights go off in case your engine warning light comes on. If this is the case then it may be the battery has drained overnight and has insufficient power to start your car make sure all electronic features are turned off E.G radio before starting as it may just be enough to start. If the problem consists then consult a garage.
• Don't start using your windscreen wash until the car is fully warmed up in case it is frozen then you run the risk of blowing a fuse, This is very common in icy weather.
• Always maintain the correct fluid levels in your car. See our page on Car Fuel Levels by clicking here.
• When the car is started then give it time to gradually warm up, normally around 2-3 minutes just to allow the fluids to flow.
• Don't turn the heaters on fully until the car has warmed up slightly as this will drink fuel like there is no tomorrow.
  
• Once the car has warmed up for 2-3 minutes it will be fine to drive Economically as your car will consume considerable amounts of fuel being cold for atleast 7 miles!!
  
  
  

 Only try to apply these when it is practical but try to apply these. Something simple as the above can save future problems with your car especially if its fairly old. Saving fuel and good car maintenance fall hand in hand and is both financially beneficial and improves wealth.