[Colduphere]

All,

I've been a creeper in these forums for a long time but this is my first post. After many months of legwork I signed on the dotted line yesterday for a new 2014 R/T Plus AWD. Very happy with that but here is my question /issue:

The dealership I purchased the car from had to go to a neighboring dealership to pick it up. Sales guy drove it 70 odd miles on a highway. He used cruise control and said he stuck 5 mph over with light acceleration to "baby" the engine. Minor slow downs for traffic and a little stop and go when he got back into town but otherwise sounds like constant speed.

Anyways, I take it home and read the manual and all its recc. About engine break in telling me it shouldn't reach 55 till 60 miles on the odometer. I then do some research online and see that steady rpms I.E. Cruise control is considered the worst thing you can do for an engine off the lot.

I haven't been able to find what the consequences are for a poor break in period. Is this even a poor break in period? Is there anything I can/should do to mitigate the damage?

First new car and I'm learning as I go, any info at all is appreciated. Thanks.

 

[Ddaddy]

It won't cause any issue with the normal break-in. Just proceed with the break-in recommendations in the owners manual from here and you will be fine.

Nothing to be concerned about.

 

[RT_HEMICHARGED]

Some people have different theories and opinions about engine break-in. I wouldn't worry about it honestly. I don't see any reason why you should drive it any differently than you normally would. With that said, there is a lot of metal parts that find their way into your oil as the engine wears in. Consider changing your oil more frequently than normal during the break-in period.

 

[Ddaddy]

Since the manufacturer is warrantying the engine, I would follow their recommendation.

ENGINE BREAK-IN RECOMMENDATIONS

A long break-in period is not required for the engine in
your new vehicle.

Drive moderately during the first 300 miles (500 km).
After the initial 60 miles (100 km), speeds up to 50 or 55
mph (80 or 90 km/h) are desirable.

While cruising, brief full-throttle acceleration, within the
limits of local traffic laws, contributes to a good break-in.
Wide open throttle acceleration in low gear can be
detrimental and should be avoided.

The engine oil installed in the engine at the factory is a
high quality energy conserving type lubricant. Oil
changes should be consistent with anticipated climate
conditions under which vehicle operations will occur.