How do you warm up a cold hybrid car

Reply Subscribe

Thread Tools

Search this Thread

Apr 20, 2026 | 05:22 PM

#31

Hybridnewbee

1st Gear

Joined: Apr 2026

Posts: 1

Likes: 0

Hybrid cold engine warmup

New owner of 2025 rx350h... old school and prefer to warmup the engine before driving. If you put the temp on 'auto' and crank up the heat to say 83 the engine starts in order to heat the interior. Comments ?

Apr 21, 2026 | 07:18 PM

#32

rch

Pit Crew

Joined: Aug 2024

Posts: 156

Likes: 67

From: Florida

Quote:

Originally Posted by Hybridnewbee

Engine warms up faster when driving. It's well established truth. And it's better for the engine wear instead of idling it cold.
For interior, or for ice coverage, you should be able to use remote start if it's North American market one, up to 10 min. You can set whatever temperature and defrost when starting remotely from the app.

Apr 22, 2026 | 05:53 AM

#33

toyotaman7

Pole Position

Joined: Jan 2016

Posts: 2,227

Likes: 904

From: Ontario

No need to warm up the engine on a Hybrid. The computer will run it when needed and at the proper RPM if you drive gently to ensure it doesn't damage the engine.

Apr 22, 2026 | 07:23 AM

#34

bt10

Intermediate

Joined: Dec 2022

Posts: 309

Likes: 104

From: MI

Quote:

Originally Posted by colday

The service tech at our only Lexus dealer assures me that it will start, however it will only run using the ICE. At least I have a garage at home, but at work no plugs for block heater. Fortunately here in Anchorage it does not often get below 22°, especially where I work.

Steve

That’s a negative 22F, by the way. The battery is in the passenger compartment under the back seat. Do you think a block heater is going to help? Good luck if the interior of your car gets to negative 22F.