Frequent trips of just a few kilometers by car can be more harmful than a long drive on the highway. Because the engine does not have time to warm up properly, condensation accumulates in the system, and unburned gasoline begins to enter the engine oil and thin it.
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Experts from the publication auto-swiat.pl have compiled a list of engines: which ones best withstand the city rhythm, and which are better not to choose for such conditions.
If you drive a car with a diesel engine or a gasoline engine with direct injection every day, specialists advise taking at least one longer trip outside the city per week. This allows the engine and exhaust system to reach optimal operating temperature.
The best choice – naturally aspirated gasoline engine
The ideal option for short city trips is simple small-displacement naturally aspirated gasoline engines with indirect (port) fuel injection, for example, 1.0 MPI.
Why are they considered the best?
They do not have a turbocharger, direct injection, dual-mass flywheel, or complex particulate filters (GPF/DPF).
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Their maintenance is cheaper, they are durable, and less sensitive to short trips.
Such engines are becoming increasingly rare in the new car market, but they are still offered by some manufacturers, such as “Fiat”, “Suzuki”, “Škoda”, and “Renault”.
Why are other engine types unsuitable for the city?
1. Gasoline engines with direct injection
When the engine is cold, some gasoline settles on the cylinder walls and enters the engine oil. If only short distances are driven, the oil does not have time to heat up to the required temperature, so the gasoline does not evaporate. As a result, the oil loses its properties faster, and engine parts wear out more quickly.
2. Modern diesel engines
Modern diesel is considered one of the worst choices for driving only in the city. To regenerate the particulate filter (DPF), longer driving at higher load is required. In the city, this process is often interrupted, so the filter becomes clogged, diesel can enter the oil, and repairs can be expensive.
3. Electric cars
Technically, an electric car is an ideal solution for short trips. It does not require engine warming, there is no oil dilution with fuel or soot filter. However, the main drawbacks are the higher purchase price and more complicated charging if there is no private garage or charging spot.
