Cold Starts vs Idling
You may believe that you're doing the best for your vehicle by allowing it to warm up in the cold weather with a few minutes of idling. In fact, more than just the engine needs to be "warm up" in the cold weather with a few minutes of idling. In fact, more than just the engine needs to be warmed up and this can only happen if the vehicle is moving. For an average vehicle, it takes about five kilo-meters of driving to warm up the engine as wee as the wheel bearings, steering, suspension, transmission and tires.
Shutting the engine down
One of the false arguments made to justify idling is that it cost money to shut the engine, That is a complete misnomer ten seconds of idling consumes the same amount of fuel as starting the engine after shutting it down. As for wear and tear factor on the battery and starter, it adds up to about $10 per year, compared to saving an average of 66-litres of gasoline a year by simply reducing idle time from 5 minutes to 30 seconds.
Idling and engine wear
Prolonged idling is also one of the worst things the owner can do to an engine. Aside from being a complete waste of fuel (you are travelling zero kilometres for the fuel consumed), excessive idling can contaminate the engine oil, which will lead to premature and very costly, engine wear down the road.
Keep the tank topped-up
The practice of idling with a low level not only stirs any dirt in the tank, but it also promotes the build-up of condensation in the tank, especially in colder temperatures. Keeping the tank topped up minimizes both risks. With 20% more cleaning agents than before. Shell Nitrogen Enriched Gasoline's protect intake valves and fuel injectors from performance-robbing gunk while you drive.
This article was written by Graeme Fletcher a Licensed mechanic and automotive journalist working for Shell.
Courtesy from News Canada
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