02.02.2026 21:37
Starting vehicles incorrectly in cold weather can lead to difficult-to-repair damage to the engine components and high repair costs. The expert warned about the proper starting of vehicles in cold weather.
The cold weather, which shows its effects in the winter months, especially makes it difficult for vehicles to operate in the morning hours. Many drivers find it challenging to move their vehicles immediately after starting them, which causes the engine to struggle without sufficient lubrication.
THE BILL CAN BE HEAVY
Sudden movement with a cold engine can increase wear on internal engine parts, potentially leading to serious mechanical failures in the long run. Diesel vehicles can be more affected by cold weather compared to gasoline vehicles. Due to the operating principle of diesel engines, it takes longer for them to stabilize after the first start. Starting the vehicle immediately after it has been turned on increases the risk of damage to parts such as valves and oil pumps.
"IT CAN LEAD TO EXPENSES OVER 50 THOUSAND LIRA"
Electrician Seyit Hazırbulan in Sivas warned drivers. Hazırbulan stated that for both diesel and gasoline vehicles, the engine should be idled for one or two minutes after the first start to allow for lubrication, saying, "Serious problems such as valve breakage, oil pump failure, or valve cutting can occur. This can lead to expenses over 50 thousand lira."
"STARTING THE VEHICLE SHORTLY ONE OR TWO TIMES, ESPECIALLY ON VERY COLD NIGHTS, HELPS TO PROTECT THE ENGINE"
Seyit Hazırbulan stated that placing cardboard in front of the vehicle is not a correct protection method. He said, "We see that diesel vehicles are more affected than gasoline vehicles in cold weather. Therefore, turning the ignition on and off a few times during the first start in the morning, and waiting for the 'click' sound after the glow lamp goes out, allows the engine to operate more smoothly and perform better. For both diesel and gasoline vehicles, the engine should be idled for one or two minutes after the first start to allow for lubrication. Otherwise, serious problems such as valve breakage, oil pump failure, or valve cutting can occur. This can lead to expenses over 50 thousand lira. Placing cardboard in front of the vehicle is not a correct method. The vehicle can overheat, burn the gasket, and cause serious material damage. As a protection method, especially on very cold nights, starting the vehicle shortly one or two times helps to protect the engine," he said.