Freq. Short Drives
Thread Starter
Pro
Joined: Jan 2011
Posts: 708
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From: Blaine Minnesota
Freq. Short Drives
Hey all, (car is an 08 Z51) I am just wondering-- when I go for short trips to the gym etc. do I need to let the oil temp reach a certain point (212F) before shutting down the engine to prevent condensation in the oil or any damage caused with frequent 2 mile trips? I seem to remember seeing someone post about this but I can't find it. THANKS
Team Owner
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 27,254
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From: Short Hills, NJ
Hey all, (car is an 08 Z51) I am just wondering-- when I go for short trips to the gym etc. do I need to let the oil temp reach a certain point (212F) before shutting down the engine to prevent condensation in the oil or any damage caused with frequent 2 mile trips? I seem to remember seeing someone post about this but I can't find it.
My personal theory is that as long as not EVERY single trip (especially so many in a row) is extra short like that then you should be 'ok'.
If you're driving it to only the gym or supermarket two or three times in a row then maybe on the way home from one of them you could drive around (stop & go) for a half hour before going home.
Race Director
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 16,557
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From: Peoria/Phoenix AZ
C6 of Year Finalist (performance mods) 2019
Getting the oil to full operating temperatures and maintaining it for a while is more preferable than short trips. It doesn't have to be 212 or more to vaporize contaminants. Actually, it will be harder and more important for you to do in cool MN and additionally due to your extra 1/2 qt capacity and Z51 oil cooler.
Follow LS1LT1's advice and give your car a workout every so often, after your workout.
Follow LS1LT1's advice and give your car a workout every so often, after your workout.
