How long should you take to warm up your car?

Answer 1

Contrary to popular belief, you shouldn't "warm up" your car's engine before driving it; I used to do this (mainly to heat the interior), but it's actually bad for the engine and fuel economy. 30 seconds of idle should be enough to get the oil warmed up to proper working temp, so drive immediately, but GENTLY for the first few minutes--yes, you'll be colder than if you leave the heater going before getting in, but your engine (and fuel tank) will thank you. Keep in mind that your brakes need time to warm up--another good reason to drive easy when you first get going. Also, at low temperature your battery will have a lower starting power; if you have trouble starting the car, try turning off the heater, radio, lights, and other accessories (and unplug any lighter-plug devices) while starting the engine.

----------Original Answer Below----------

When its cold out, Give your car a few mins to get the molecules reacting faster in your oils, The oil works best when its at its warmer temps. Oil thickens in winter. Today its -2 degrees here this morning, so If you live in the country as I do, Warm it til warm air comes from the heater. Winter time is the time your thermostat sticks the worse, and could leave you stranded in the middle of no place. People die trying to walk in these conditions. Don't take a chance on getting stranded in the middle of winter. Good Luck and Take care {R}