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.Continue reading…
