2012 Engine Break-in Period?

[ck21az]

New owner who will be picking up a 2012 QX56 w/ 4wd, Deluxe Touring, Theatre, and 22" wheels this week. I may not get the vehicle until the day before we are to leave on a 3000 mile road trip that will include interstates and some highway mountain passes. I plan on keeping the vehicle for many many years.

I read where many don't recommend a long road trip during the 1200 mile break-in period. Others say you are fine as long as you don't reach 4000 rpm's and don't use the cruise control. The dealer says that due to the micro finished parts in the engine, I have nothing to worry about. I would appreciate hearing about your break-in experience and your recommendation if I should or shouldn't take a new QX on a long road trip essentially right off the lot and what I need to do if I do take the trip?

Thanks and I am so excited to transition into an Infiniti QX 56 from my 94 Land Cruiser who is now being driven by my 16 year old!

 

[ColoradoQX]

I think the dealer is correct in their advice. In the case of the "old days" or lesser quality engines break in was a fairly important thing to do so the rings would take a proper set on the engine block. With the tolerances that the QX engine is manufactured to most break in will have occurred within the first 500 miles.

Just use common sense and don't over rev or keep the rev's constant for the first 2K and don't worry much about it. I am waiting on switching over to synthetic oil until my 7500 mile change but even that is probably overkill in my opinion.

Best,
Darrin

 

[mikefarm]

I think there was a towing break in of like 500 miles, other than that it was pretty open. We towed 6000lbs around for 12hrs at about 512miles

 

[ck21az]

Thanks for the reply - when you say don't keep the speed constant - when traveling on the interstate would you go 70 moh and then back it down to 60 and then press it to 80 and so forth in increments of say 45 miles?

Thanks for any feedback!

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[ColoradoQX]

Not constant road speed but piston velocity i.e. change your RPM from time to time during break in. The reality is even if you don't do that you will be fine.

I towed a trailer cross country (both ways) right after the 500 mile limit and all seems fine. No added oil consumption etc.

Best,
Darrin