Engine "break in"

[Janney]

Just bought a 2002 Jetta TDI. I've noticed I'm not getting the kind of mileage I thought I would. Is this because the car is so new and the engine needs to be broken in? How long is the typical break in period?

 

[lschultz]

Give it several thousand miles and it will improve.Mileage depends on how you drive too.First tank I doubt if they filled it up all the way,first click and they probably quit.Use the vent trick when you fill it up and you'll get a more accurate mileage reading.

 

[Frank TDI]

When you get it from the dealer, your lucky if it is filled half way up. It takes several thousand miles for the engine to " break in ". Remember no HARD acceleration for the first 1000. Also try to vary the speed. Do not stay a one steady speed for a long period of time.As far as top speed ,go for it for a short period of time, remember no HARD acceleration.These are very good engines. The better the break in, the longer the life of the engine. The last thing to know is the OIL to use in this fine engine. Do a search and you will fine the reccomended oils to use. Since VW does NOT due oil changes for " no charge" any more you can do them your self. Keep accurate records and reciepts for the filters and oil. Good DRIVING!!!

 

[Boris]

I would not worry about the mileage until you put a few miles on the car. My mileage for my first tank was not much different than my 1991 GTI, but I don't think the dealer filled it up all of the way. I do all city driving and am up to 1,800 miles on my car. My best mileage around town is 35 mpg. However, I took it out on the highway for a weekend trip and got 47 mpg. That is with a 5 speed manual transmission. I keep thinking it will improve with time. (No, I don't drive it like a gasser...I don't think I even drove my gasser like a gasser...That's why I got a TDI