Hey Lubbock, I know it’s freezing outside and the temptation to let your car idle while you sit there cranking up the heat is strong. Sure, it’s cozy sitting in your car listening to Awesome98 while you wait, but according to car experts, modern vehicles just don’t need it anymore.
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Why You Don’t Need to Warm It Up

Back in the day, when carbureted engines were ubiquitous, letting your car idle on a chilly morning was essential. If you didn’t, your engine could stall, and no one wanted that embarrassment while driving down the loop. But, carbureted engines started going out of style in the early ‘90s.

Fast forward to today, and modern fuel-injected engines warm up in just five seconds. Yes, five seconds, according to Triple-A. So unless you’re driving a classic car or your uncle’s rusted-out pickup from 1978, there’s really no need to idle anymore.

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What About the Heater and Defrost?

Okay, here’s the one exception: comfort. If you need those toasty warm seats, a blast of heat, or to defrost your windshield, idling is almost required. Nobody’s judging you for wanting to avoid that arctic chill when you hop in. Also, cars with remote start are common now. Why WOULDN'T you let it warm up a bit?

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What Happens If You Keep Doing It?

Letting your car idle for long stretches in the cold doesn’t just waste gas—it can actually cause more wear and tear on your engine. That’s right, you’re not helping your car; you’re hurting it. Plus, wasting gas at these prices? No thanks!

So, Lubbock, the next time those temperatures drop and you feel the urge to sit there revving your engine like it’s 1989, remember: your car doesn’t need the warm-up. Save your gas, your engine, and maybe a little extra time in bed.

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