Warming up a car when there is nowhere to go isn’t beneficial. Industry sources in Russia reported that Alexander Nosko, who works in the automotive marketplace Fresh as a service director, cautions that idle warming can stress the powertrain over time.
Experts say there is little reason to start the engine in sub-zero conditions if a long drive isn’t on the schedule. Short trips during very cold weather can degrade engine oil more quickly and may invite a range of engine problems later on. The initial cold-start phase is a vulnerable time for many mechanical systems, and prolonged idling tends to reduce lubricant effectiveness sooner than a steady, purposeful drive.
When a car sits and the engine warms gradually, condensate can form in the crankcase ventilation passages. If this moisture mixes with oil, it can create a milky emulsion that impairs lubrication and cooling. Over time, the reduced lubrication can contribute to increased wear, overheating, or harder starts, especially in engines with high mileage or older designs.
In some cases, drivers might notice that an engine can run for a short period after an oil deficit develops, but that does not mean long-term reliability is intact. A vehicle with a low oil level and marginal lubrication can still move, but the risk of serious damage rises. While some additives claim to extend lubrication or seal gaps in imperfect systems, relying on them as a substitute for proper lubrication is not supported by mainstream automotive guidance.
Previous industry guidance has suggested that engine oil can be supplemented between service intervals if manufacturers approve of additional products. However, the safest approach remains following the vehicle maker’s maintenance schedule and using the correct oil grade and viscosity for the climate and operating conditions. In Canada and the United States, winter driving often involves frequent short trips and abrupt temperature shifts; in these cases, ensuring timely oil changes, checking oil level regularly, and warming the vehicle just long enough to reach an efficient operating temperature are prudent practices that help preserve engine health over time.