Driving Expert's Cold Weather Car Starting Warning: The Shocking Mistake Millions Make

As temperatures plummet across the UK, a leading driving expert has issued an urgent warning to motorists about a common cold weather practice that could leave them stranded and facing expensive repair bills.

With the mercury dropping below freezing, many drivers instinctively jump into their vehicles and let them idle for extended periods, believing they're doing their engine a favour. But according to specialists, this well-intentioned habit is actually causing more harm than good.

The Costly Mistake Millions Make

"The biggest misconception is that you need to let your car idle for ages to warm up the engine," explains the motoring professional. "Modern engines don't require this lengthy warm-up period, and doing so can actually damage critical components over time."

Contrary to popular belief, prolonged idling in cold weather doesn't properly lubricate engine parts. Instead, it allows fuel to dilute the oil, reducing its effectiveness and potentially leading to premature wear.

What You Should Actually Do

Experts recommend a completely different approach for cold morning starts:

Start your engine and allow it to run for no more than 30 seconds
Drive gently for the first few miles, avoiding high revs
This allows the engine to warm up properly under light load
Your heater will actually warm up faster when driving than when idling

The Battery Drain Danger

Another hidden danger of extended idling? "You're actually draining your battery rather than charging it," the expert reveals. "At idle, the alternator produces minimal charge, while multiple electrical systems - lights, heating, rear window demister - draw significant power."

This combination can leave drivers with a flat battery precisely when they need their vehicle most, turning a frosty morning into a frustrating ordeal.