Is a Lexus Break-In Period Really Necessary?
Lexus, like many automotive manufacturers, suggests a break-in period for new cars. But opinions on the matter remain mixed.
In a perfect world, we’d trust automakers fully. We’d follow every single little recommendation in the owner’s manual, never missing a maintenance item or recommended service. But in the real world, we humans are skeptical. And those of us who consider ourselves enthusiasts tend to question the need for certain things. When it comes to Lexus, perhaps the biggest question mark surrounds the mysterious break-in period.
Automakers allege that vehicles, especially performance cars, need to be babied along for the first thousand miles or so. This supposedly optimizes engine performance and longevity. But even Lexus notes that a break-in period is “optional,” and says only that it “may help” in these regards. So for the real answer as to whether a Lexus break-in period is necessary, we turn to the real world. Or in other words, the Club Lexus forums.
And overwhelmingly, the popular opinion is that break-in periods are mostly unnecessary.
“I don’t think the break-in period is necessary,” says danwlee.“But I did go through a break-in period when i got my GS F to 1000 miles. Took almost 2 months to get there. I just made sure to drive the car in all rpm ranges – low, mid, and high. The thing to avoid is constantly driving in the same range. I even did a little spirited acceleration during that period, but I did avoid trying to see how fast I could get from 0-60.”
Some, like lobuxracer, even go so far as to claim that following a break-in procedure can actually hurt your engine.
“Using the factory break-in will ensure your engine burns oil and has poor compression. I did this to my IS F and GS F. I did not do this to my 1993 Celica GTS and I had an engine that burned a quart of oil every 1500 miles. Never again.”
Besides, as PearlFocal points out, it’s not like Lexus isn’t already thoroughly testing their engines. Especially in performance cars like the F line.
“I spoke with a Lexus service manager and he claims that break-ins are not needed as the engines were extensively tested in the factory. GS F engines are basically race ready when they leave the factory. That being said, I still did 2000km (around 1600 miles) before ripping my car on the race track.”
Still, it’s obvious that everyone has their own method of breaking in a new Lexus.
“Don’t baby it,” says danwlee.“You don’t want to drive it in the same speed/rpm range the entire period, which is why I say drive it in all ranges (both RPMs and speed). You can get into upper ranges of both without flooring it.”
For the record, Lexus doesn’t recommend anything crazy in regards to a break-in period. Just the following:
- For the first 200 miles (300 km):
– Avoid sudden stops. - For the first 500 miles (800 km):
– Do not tow a trailer. - For the first 1000 miles (1600 km):
– Do not drive at extremely high speeds.
– Avoid sudden acceleration.
– Do not drive continuously in low gears.
– Do not drive at a constant speed for extended periods.
Simple enough, right? And yet, the topic remains a hot button issue among Lexus owners. So we’d like to know – do you think a break-in period is necessary? Head over here and chime in with your own personal thoughts and experiences!
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