Hi

I've had lots of problems with my clutch/tranny that i won't go over again here.

Suffice it to say that most of my problems diminish if i let my MCC (stick) warm up for 4-10 minutes depending on the outside temp.

I've seen many different people in many places say that long warm up times are bad for new cars (not just minis). I've never seen an explanation.

Can someone provide one?
thanks!

 

Short answer: modern engines aren't hurt by longer warm up times. Unless the engine is new and still needs breaking in. Then it is best to drive it normally with no high rpm's or lugging. Moderation is everything!

Long answer: Engines warm up faster if driven after the initial warm up (30 sec) has allowed oil pressure to build. Water in the system will warm up faster than the oil, and warm free-flowing oil is critical to lubrication.
You waste a bunch of gasoline with long warm ups, and the engine is not operating in it's most efficient mode.

Or you can get the clutch/tranny fixed.

 

I've got 32k miles on my engine, i believe it is out of the break in period.
IF i could get the tranny/clutch problem fixed, believe me, i would. Mini says there is no problem, so i'm left with little recourse until it takes a complete dump.
I'm actually going to bring it into the dealer for a tune up and remind them that it needs fixing, see if their techs are more inclined to believe me this time around.

My commute is 1.5 miles each way. I figure the car being on for an extra 4-10 minutes, when the entire drive is 5-10 minutes can't hurt... right?

 

On a good day...that's almost walking or cycling distance but generally, it shouldn't hurt your engine if you take it out and give it a good long run every now and then...like on weekends. Especially take it on a highway from time to time.

 

That short of a commute is brutal on an engine. You're not getting it anywhere near up to temperature. The downfall is that condensation is forming in the engine and could cause significant issues down the road. Warming it up 5-10 minutes will help a little, but you really need to stretch those legs a few times a week otherwise you run some additional risks...

 

Everything he said.

 

Interesting note: Latest edition of "Engine Rebuilder" mag has an article on main bearing failure. Pictures and input from major manufacturers.
"Excessive idling can result in and oil film that can't support the load needed."
The picture shows main bearing surfaces with distressing that looks like acid etching. Ugly.
see http://www.enginebuildermag.com/Arti...gs_go_bad.aspx for article and pics.