I have to disagree with just about every response.

First, some credentials...I was a 12 year certified technician, and
regularly did engine rebuilds on both gas and diesel engines. As a fleet
manager, will also did extensive wear studies and regular in-depth oil
analysis. While I am no longer "in the field" I still get my hands dirty
building hi-performance engines for boats as a hobby.

With that said...I will make this blanket statement...

"Allowing the engine coolant to reach its maximum operating temperature at
idle after a cold start, will extend the life of the engine."

Think about it...20 degree block, and your going to drive away after 30
seconds!? Tolerances are too tight in a cold engine for loading
purposes...you are "shaving" longevity away from your engine. We have done
those precise studies in our fleet, and that is our findings. My very own
'94 Accord with 138k miles on it, has *always* been completely warmed up,
and to this day, runs like its brand new.

Talk about rusting your exhaust system by letting your car warm up, is
nonsense as well. That doesn't even make sense.

I welcome any debate on the subject, and I sure there is good rational for
those who disagree, but we actually did the studies, and tore down the
engines afterwards. Believe me...seeing, is believing.

Take care.

--
It's just about going fast...that's all...

http://home.insight.rr.com/cgreen/
"Pravin Nair" <pnsunysb@yahoo.com> wrote in message
news:105e544d.0311031412.225b1210@posting.google.c om...
> Hi there,
>
> How important is it to warm up your engine first thing in the morning?.
>
> Does it increase the life time of the engine or some such?.
>
> Just curious.
>
> Pravin Nair.