“The top mistake drivers make when starting their car that could seriously damage it, according to a mechanic”

Every day, millions of people depend on their cars to get to work, school, and take care of daily tasks. The usual routine is quick and familiar: start the engine and immediately shift into gear. This habit—driving off the moment the engine starts—is often about convenience or saving time.

But seasoned mechanics caution that this quick departure can slowly harm your engine. Those few seconds you think you’re saving can, over months and years, reduce your engine’s lifespan.

Why the Engine Needs a Moment to Warm

When a vehicle sits for hours—especially overnight—engine oil settles at the bottom of the engine in the oil pan. Once the engine is turned on, the oil pump works to move the oil through the system, but it takes around 30 to 40 seconds for the lubricant to fully reach all essential components.

Continue reading…