Well, I've left my manual at home so I'm starting this thread to both discuss the recommended break in procedures versus what everyone here actually does.

I think we can all agree not to cruise at a constant speed - but for how long? First 500 miles? 1,000?

Generally I do not take a new engine anywhere close to redline for the first 1,000 miles - half way or just over half way during normal driving. How about you all?

Fluid changes - I usually do the oil and differential fluids after 1,000-1,200 miles. Does a Lexus transmission need its fluid changed at that time too?

 

on the 2IS 250/350 they never called for a differential change, but I think they call for it at 60k on the ISF. I did it anyways as part of the 60k maintenance since its so easy to do.

For engine break in I just drove like normal gunning it occasionally. A lot of cars are dynoed at the factory so theres no point to avoid redline since they already did it as part of QAQC

 

I already redlined mine a few times.

 

this question comes up all the time within all the car communities.
usually some old timer will chime in with 'cars were manufactured to drive of the lot. they were designed NOT to have to "break them in".

when you rebuild your engine, a lot of machinists will tell you the same thing "just drive it."

 

Well, I am an old timer. Any way the older cars really needed a break in period. The older cars after 100 to 500 miles depending on the car would have to have their oil changed. You could see metal shavings from the engine on the oil drain plug. Pretty scary to see that when pulling your drain plug.

Found this on one of the GS forums.

From the GS350 owners manual:

156 4-1. Before driving ■ Breaking in your new Lexus
To extend the life of the vehicle, observing the following precautions is recommended:
● For the first 186 miles (300 km): Avoid sudden stops.
● For the first 621 miles (1000 km):
• Do not drive at extremely high speeds.
• Avoid sudden acceleration.
• Do not drive continuously in low gears.
• Do not drive at an constant speed for extended periods

 

Same goes for the IS300h. Should be the same for IS250 and 350 too.

 

I've always gone with "Don't baby it, but don't drive it like you stole it either". Vary the engine speeds, let the engine heat up all the way when you drive it. The manual lists 1000 miles as the break-in period, after that...enjoy!

 

i didnt think i had to add that, but i shouldve. most if not all suggestions would be to change your oil the first xxx, then xxx, then xxxx miles.

but hey, if a manual straight up tells you to do something, i would abide by it

 

The manual also tells you to performance maintenance way more than you need to.

 

I've followed the following break in protocol with all the cars I've owned. I usually keep my cars well beyond 100,000 miles and want them not to consume oil. Perhaps some of it is no longer necessary, but I would rather err on the side of conservatism, especially when there is no downside for doing so:

First 600 miles do not exceed 2/3 max RPM, avoiding full engine throttle and high engine speeds. Six hundred to 1000 miles gradually increase speeds to maximum permissible RPM and engine speeds. Never rev engine to high speeds when it is cold. Vary speed. Use slow and smooth acceleration (very little torque), letting the revs come down naturally, no braking, rather letting the car compression break down the revs. Proper break in is all about decelerating with some load, this helps seat the piston rings.

Best of luck with your new car!

 

Personally, I would NOT recommend changing any fluids after 1,000-1,200 miles.

All engines and trans get a spin test with oil in them before they reach the assembly line..

Changing them before required, is just throwing away money..

1,000 Check in at dealership... They lift the car look at everything and make sure all is normal..

After that, follow the recommended oil changes from the book..

I do my own oil changes every 5k miles on the F and every 7,500 on my honda..

Enjoy your new car..

~ Joe Z

 

Thanks all for your thoughts :thumb:

The dealership only mentioned the regular 5,000 mile increment services, nothing about a 1,000 mile checkin. Is that standard for all Lexuses or something I need to inquire about?

 

first oil change is at 5k

 

First oil change on the new 350 is 10k I thought....this is what my dealer is telling me. Check up at 5,000 miles. I drive the car like I normally would during break in. I have had 5 IS's and never had one single issue with them engine wise. Even Ferrari is telling drivers to use their cars how they normally would from day one.

 

The funny thing is...
Don't all of those rules get violated on rental cars?
How about dealer test drives?

I think those cars end up fine. I don't think there's a lot to worry about.