How to Break in a New Toyota Car Engine

by Shanan Miller
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The Toyota Owners Online website states that breaking in your brand-new Toyota extends the life of the vehicle. Although it is rumored that vehicles no longer require a break-in period, this is at the sole discretion of the manufacturer. Toyota lists its break-in instructions right in the vehicle's owner's manual. Vehicle break-in procedures are the same for all Toyota vehicles with the exception of hybrid models, which differ slightly.

Hybrid Vehicles

Step 1

Avoid sudden stops, such as slamming on the brakes for the first 200 miles of the break-in period.

Step 2

Do not drive at extremely high speeds or at a constant speed for an extended period of time during the first 600 miles.

Step 3

Do not suddenly accelerate during the first 600 miles. Drive your car at mid-speeds, such as around 45 mph around town.

Non-Hybrid Toyota Vehicles

Step 1

Avoid sudden stopping for the first 200 miles and sudden acceleration for the first 1,000 miles.

Step 2

Do not tow at any time during the first 500 miles.

Step 3

Drive your vehicle gently around town or around 45 mph for the first 1,000 miles. Do not drive the vehicle at a constant speed for long periods of time, such as on a highway. Gently brake and accelerate while breaking the car in.

Step 4

Stay out of low gears for a continuous period of time during the first 1,000 miles. For example, do not drive in a snowstorm where low gears are necessary until after the break-in period.

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