When Is the Best Time to Buy a Car? By Voice Motor Sales in Kalkaska, Michigan Is December the best month to buy a car? Should you wait for a holiday sale, shop at the end of the month, or buy before the next model year arrives? The best time to buy a car is when the right vehicle, an affordable total cost, and your transportation needs line up. Certain shopping periods can create opportunities, but no date guarantees the lowest price. For drivers in Kalkaska and throughout Northern Michigan, a little preparation can be more useful than trying to predict the perfect sale. Here is how to decide when to shop and when waiting may make sense. Is There a Best Month to Buy a Car? Late-year shopping is worth considering, particularly when dealerships have outgoing model-year vehicles available. However, pricing depends on the specific vehicle, remaining inventory, and applicable manufacturer programs. Car and Driver identifies the end of the calendar year and model-year transitions as periods to consider. Treat those as shopping opportunities, not promises that every vehicle will cost less. Start by identifying the vehicle you want and comparing actual purchase figures. A good fit available today may be more valuable than an uncertain future discount. Does Buying at the End of the Month Help? Sometimes. Dealership sales goals and inventory priorities can influence offers, but shoppers cannot assume every dealership or vehicle is in the same situation. If you want to compare an end-of-month opportunity, research and test-drive vehicles earlier. That gives you time to review pricing without making a rushed decision. Confirm the expiration date of any offer. Do not assume it ends on the last calendar day or will continue into the following month. Should You Wait for a Holiday Sale? Holiday events can be a useful reminder to check available offers. However, the sale name does not tell you whether the deal fits your situation. When reviewing an advertised offer, ask: Which vehicles qualify? What eligibility requirements apply? Can the advertised incentives be combined? What is the complete purchase price? When does the offer expire? Keep the comparison consistent. A lower payment on a longer loan is different from a lower vehicle price. The FTC recommends evaluating the total financing cost, including the APR and loan term, rather than concentrating only on the monthly payment. Is an Outgoing Model Year a Better Buy? An outgoing model-year vehicle may offer an attractive opportunity when newer models arrive. The tradeoff is selection: the exact color, trim, or equipment package you want may no longer be available. Compare the actual vehicles side by side. Consider differences in features, purchase price, available financing, and how long you expect to keep the vehicle. Model-year changes do not happen on one universal date. Edmunds explains that model introductions vary, making vehicle-specific research more useful than assuming every new model arrives in the fall. When Is the Best Time to Buy a Used Car? With a used vehicle, focus closely on the individual car. Two vehicles from the same model year can differ substantially in mileage, condition, equipment, and maintenance history. Before deciding that a particular listing is a good opportunity, compare: The asking price with similar vehicles Mileage and overall condition Available vehicle-history and maintenance information Features that matter to your household Financing terms and expected ownership expenses Begin with our current used vehicle inventory. Give yourself enough time to evaluate a vehicle carefully without assuming the same combination will remain available indefinitely. Should You Buy Before Winter in Northern Michigan? If you already expect to replace your vehicle, shopping before winter can give you time to compare options before transportation becomes urgent. Think about your actual routine: commuting between Kalkaska and Traverse City, driving rural roads, carrying family members, or traveling for work. Consider tires, ground clearance, visibility, and overall vehicle condition alongside drivetrain choices. This is a planning advantage, not a claim that fall always brings lower prices. The goal is to avoid having an unexpected breakdown make the decision for you. When Does Waiting Make Sense? Waiting may be worthwhile when your current vehicle meets your needs and additional time would improve your financial position or help you clarify what to buy. You might use that time to build a down payment, compare insurance costs, review your credit reports, or narrow your must-have features. Set a specific goal, such as saving a certain amount, rather than waiting indefinitely for an undefined “better deal.” When Might Buying Now Make More Sense? Consider moving forward when you have found a suitable vehicle, understand the complete transaction, and can comfortably manage the cost. Also consider the expense of waiting. Recurring repairs, rental transportation, or missed work can affect the comparison. Estimate those costs without assuming that every repair means your current vehicle should be replaced. What to Check Before You Decide Vehicle fit: Does it meet your everyday needs? Total price: Have you reviewed an itemized purchase amount? Trade-in: Do you know its value and any remaining payoff? Financing: Have you compared the APR, term, and total payments? Cash reserves: Will you retain money for other expenses? Timing: Is there a practical reason to buy or wait? Explore Your Options at Voice Motor Sales You do not need to choose a purchase date before starting your research. At Voice Motor Sales in Kalkaska, begin by browsing new Chevrolet vehicles, exploring used inventory, or requesting an online trade appraisal. Visit our finance department page to learn about financing options, or contact Voice Motor Sales with questions about a vehicle. Frequently Asked Questions Is December always the cheapest month to buy a car? No. December can provide shopping opportunities, but prices depend on the vehicle, inventory, and available offers. Compare actual purchase figures rather than assuming a particular month guarantees savings. Should I wait for the next model year? Compare the features and cost of the incoming model with available outgoing models. Waiting may make sense if a specific change matters to you; an available vehicle may already meet your needs. Is there a best day of the week to buy a car? No weekday guarantees the lowest price. Schedule a visit when you have enough time to test-drive vehicles, ask questions, and review the purchase details without rushing. Is a holiday sale automatically a better deal? No. Compare the complete price, eligibility requirements, financing terms, and offer expiration. A promotional event alone does not establish which option is best for your budget. Vehicle availability and offers can change. Financing, incentives, rates, and terms are subject to applicable eligibility requirements and credit approval. Best Time to Buy a Car in Michigan | Voice Motor Sales

2027 Chevy Silverado 5.7L and 6.6L V8 Engines: What We Know So Far Reviewed by the Voice Motor Sales Sales Department in Kalkaska, Michigan One of the biggest changes coming to the next-generation 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 is happening under the hood. Chevrolet has officially confirmed two next-generation V8 engines for the redesigned Silverado: a new 5.7L V8 and a new 6.6L V8. These engines represent a major update to the Silverado's traditional V8 lineup and continue Chevrolet's long-running commitment to naturally aspirated V8 power in its full-size pickup. Chevrolet has not released every final specification yet, but there is already enough confirmed information to give truck shoppers a good idea of what is changing and why the new engines are worth watching. What Engines Will the 2027 Silverado 1500 Offer? Chevrolet has confirmed that the next-generation 2027 Silverado 1500 will continue to offer four powertrain choices. Enhanced 2.7L TurboMax four-cylinder 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel Next-generation 5.7L V8 Next-generation 6.6L V8 The two V8s are the biggest powertrain news for the new generation, while the TurboMax and Duramax continue to provide alternatives for shoppers with different priorities. Chevrolet has also confirmed that the enhanced TurboMax will now be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. The 5.7L V8 Returns to the Silverado The new 5.7L V8 is particularly interesting because 5.7 liters is one of the most recognizable displacements in Chevrolet V8 history. Longtime Chevrolet enthusiasts may immediately associate a 5.7L V8 with the famous 350-cubic-inch small-block engines that powered generations of Chevrolet cars and trucks. The new engine, however, should not be confused with those older designs. This is a next-generation V8 developed for modern Chevrolet vehicles and the demands of today's full-size trucks. Chevrolet says the new V8 family has been engineered to provide improvements in both power and torque while maintaining the durability and capability Silverado customers expect. How Does the New 5.7L Compare With the Current 5.3L V8? The current-generation Silverado has long offered Chevrolet's 5.3L V8 as one of its core gasoline engine choices. For the next-generation truck, Chevrolet is moving to a larger 5.7L displacement for its new V8 lineup. The additional displacement is noteworthy, but displacement alone does not tell us exactly how the new engine will perform. Final horsepower, torque, fuel-economy, towing, and payload figures for the new engine have not yet been announced by Chevrolet. What Chevrolet has confirmed is that the next-generation V8s will deliver improvements in power and torque. The New 6.6L V8 Is the Big Power Story The larger engine in the new Silverado V8 lineup will be a 6.6L naturally aspirated V8. This represents a significant change from the 6.2L V8 offered in the current Silverado 1500. Chevrolet has not yet released the final horsepower and torque numbers, but the company has already made an important claim about the new engine: the next-generation Silverado 1500 will offer the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in its class, based on GM-estimated horsepower and torque ratings and current competitive information. That makes the new 6.6L one of the most important Silverado engines to watch as Chevrolet releases additional specifications. How Does the 6.6L Compare With the Current 6.2L? The outgoing 6.2L V8 has been the high-output gasoline engine in the current Silverado 1500 lineup. The next-generation Silverado moves to a larger 6.6L V8 as part of Chevrolet's new engine strategy. Chevrolet has already confirmed improved power and torque from the next-generation V8s, but until the final numbers are released, it would be premature to make specific horsepower, torque, or towing comparisons between the new 6.6L and the outgoing 6.2L. What is clear is that Chevrolet is not moving away from large-displacement V8 engines in its next-generation half-ton pickup. Instead, it is introducing an even larger naturally aspirated V8 at the top of the gasoline-engine lineup. Why Is Chevrolet Introducing Larger V8 Engines? Full-size truck buyers use their vehicles for a wide range of jobs, from everyday commuting to towing campers, hauling equipment, working on job sites, traveling off-road, and pulling trailers over long distances. For those customers, torque, throttle response, durability, towing confidence, and predictable power delivery can be just as important as maximum horsepower. Chevrolet says the next-generation V8s were engineered around real-world truck use, including demanding towing conditions and the everyday workloads Silverado owners place on their trucks. The result is a new V8 lineup designed specifically around the capability expectations of a modern full-size pickup. Are the New Silverado V8s Naturally Aspirated? Yes. Chevrolet has identified the new Silverado V8 lineup as naturally aspirated. That means the engines produce their power without relying on turbochargers or superchargers. For truck buyers who prefer the characteristics of a traditional naturally aspirated V8, Chevrolet's decision to continue developing this type of engine is significant. The new 6.6L is especially notable because Chevrolet says it will make the Silverado the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 half-ton truck in its class. Chevrolet Is Doubling Down on V8 Power The full-size truck market has changed substantially in recent years. Turbocharged engines, hybrid powertrains, diesel engines, and electric trucks have all become part of the conversation. Chevrolet will continue offering different powertrain choices, including TurboMax and Duramax, but the arrival of two entirely new V8 options makes one thing clear: the V8 remains an important part of the Silverado lineup. That gives buyers the ability to choose the engine type that best matches how they actually use their truck. More Than 70 Years of Chevrolet Small-Block V8 History Chevrolet's small-block V8 history stretches back more than seven decades. Since its introduction in the 1950s, the small-block has become one of the most recognizable engine families in the automotive world, powering everything from everyday passenger vehicles to performance cars and hard-working pickups. Chevrolet is positioning the new 5.7L and 6.6L engines as the next chapter of that history. While the technology and engineering have evolved dramatically, the basic idea remains familiar to Chevrolet truck owners: naturally aspirated V8 power designed for work, towing, durability, and everyday use. Michigan Will Play a Role in the New V8 Engines The new V8 program also has a Michigan connection. Chevrolet has said the next-generation V8 engines will be assembled by GM teams at facilities that include Flint Engine Operations in Michigan, along with Tonawanda Propulsion and St. Catharines Propulsion. For Chevrolet truck owners in Michigan, that adds another interesting connection between the next generation of Silverado and GM's long manufacturing history in the state. What Has Chevrolet Said About Towing? Chevrolet has specifically described the new V8 engines as being engineered for serious work and confident towing. However, final towing ratings for the 2027 Silverado 1500 have not yet been released. Maximum towing capacity depends on much more than the engine alone. Cab configuration, axle ratio, drivetrain, bed configuration, cooling equipment, suspension, packages, and other equipment can all affect a truck's final rating. Once Chevrolet releases complete specifications, shoppers will be able to compare the 5.7L, 6.6L, TurboMax, and Duramax configurations more accurately. Will the 5.7L or 6.6L Be Better for Towing? It is too early to make a definitive comparison because Chevrolet has not yet published complete towing and torque figures for each engine. The larger 6.6L will likely attract shoppers looking for maximum gasoline V8 performance, while the 5.7L may appeal to buyers who want traditional V8 characteristics without necessarily needing the highest-output engine available. The 3.0L Duramax will also remain part of the lineup, giving frequent towing and long-distance drivers another option to compare. Once official towing and payload ratings are available, the right engine choice will depend on what you tow, how often you tow it, and the configuration of the exact truck you are considering. What Do We Know About Horsepower and Torque? As of September 10, 2026, Chevrolet has not released the final horsepower and torque figures for the new 5.7L and 6.6L Silverado V8 engines. Chevrolet has confirmed that both engines will provide improvements in power and torque compared with the current generation. Chevrolet has also stated that the Silverado will offer the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in its class. Until Chevrolet publishes the actual ratings, any specific horsepower or torque numbers circulating online should be treated as estimates or speculation rather than confirmed specifications. What About Fuel Economy? Official EPA fuel-economy ratings for the new V8 engines have not yet been announced. Engine displacement by itself does not determine fuel economy. Transmission programming, cylinder-management strategies, vehicle weight, gearing, aerodynamics, tires, drivetrain configuration, and other factors all affect real-world and EPA-rated efficiency. Once official ratings become available, shoppers will be able to make a more meaningful comparison between the new 5.7L and 6.6L V8s and the other available Silverado engines. The 2027 Silverado Is More Than an Engine Update The new V8 engines arrive as part of a complete next-generation Silverado redesign. Chevrolet has confirmed major changes throughout the truck, including: A redesigned exterior New LED lighting A more modern digital interior Standard 16.3-inch center display Standard 12.2-inch Driver Information Center Expanded Super Cruise availability Additional standard safety and driver-assistance technology Three lifted off-road-oriented trims A revised seven-trim lineup You can read more about the complete truck in our 2027 Chevy Silverado 1500 Preview. What Are the 2027 Silverado Trim Levels? Chevrolet has confirmed seven core trims for the next-generation Silverado 1500: Work Truck Custom Custom Trail Boss Silverado Trail Boss High Country ZR2 One of the biggest naming changes is the new Silverado trim, which takes the place in the lineup previously occupied by LT. Chevrolet has not yet published every final engine-and-trim combination, so shoppers interested in a specific 5.7L or 6.6L configuration should wait for final ordering information before assuming a particular engine will be available in every trim. 5.7L vs. 6.6L: Which Engine Should You Choose? Until final specifications and ordering information are released, it is too early to declare one engine the better choice. The best engine will depend on what you expect from your truck. The 5.7L may make sense for drivers who: Want traditional V8 power for everyday driving Tow or haul but do not necessarily need maximum gasoline-engine output Prefer a naturally aspirated V8 Want a balance of performance and everyday usability The 6.6L may appeal more to drivers who: Want the strongest available naturally aspirated Silverado V8 Frequently tow or haul Want maximum gasoline-engine performance Simply prefer a larger-displacement V8 Final horsepower, torque, towing, fuel economy, pricing, and trim availability will ultimately determine how the two engines compare. What Our Sales Team Is Watching At Voice Motor Sales, there are several details we are especially interested in seeing once Chevrolet releases the complete specifications. Final horsepower for the 5.7L V8 Final horsepower for the 6.6L V8 Peak torque and where it occurs in the RPM range Maximum towing capacity Payload ratings Fuel-economy ratings Which V8 is available with each trim Pricing differences between the engines Availability of the engines with Trail Boss and ZR2 configurations How the new engines feel compared with the current 5.3L and 6.2L V8s Those details will give truck buyers a much clearer picture of where each engine fits within the next-generation Silverado lineup. Why the New V8s Matter for Northern Michigan Truck Buyers Silverado owners in Northern Michigan use their trucks for just about everything. That can mean towing campers and boats, hauling equipment, maintaining property, traveling seasonal roads, commuting through winter weather, working on job sites, or heading north for hunting and recreation. For drivers around Kalkaska, Traverse City, Grayling, Cadillac, Lake City, Mancelona, and surrounding communities, the choice between the new 5.7L, 6.6L, TurboMax, and Duramax engines may come down to the type of work the truck needs to perform. Once complete specifications become available, comparing the engines based on real towing requirements and everyday driving needs will be more useful than simply choosing the engine with the largest number on the badge. Should You Wait for the 2027 Silverado? If the new 5.7L or 6.6L V8 is one of the main reasons you are considering your next truck, the next-generation 2027 Silverado is certainly worth watching. Chevrolet says the truck is expected to become available in late 2026. On the other hand, shoppers who need a truck now still have access to current-generation Silverado 1500 models with established engine options and known specifications. You can browse current Chevrolet Silverado 1500 inventory at Voice Motor Sales while deciding whether the next-generation truck is worth waiting for. Follow the Next-Generation Silverado at Voice Motor Sales The new 5.7L and 6.6L V8 engines are shaping up to be two of the most significant changes arriving with the next-generation Chevrolet Silverado 1500. We already know Chevrolet is increasing V8 displacement, improving power and torque, and continuing its commitment to naturally aspirated V8 engines in the full-size truck market. The next major pieces of information will be the final horsepower, torque, towing, payload, fuel-economy, pricing, and engine-availability figures. Voice Motor Sales will continue following the next-generation Silverado as additional information becomes available. In the meantime, you can shop current Silverado 1500 inventory, get started with a trade appraisal, or contact Voice Motor Sales if you have questions about current or upcoming Chevrolet trucks. More Silverado Shopping Resources 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Preview Browse New Chevrolet Silverado 1500 Inventory Explore Chevrolet Model Research Find Out More About Your Trade Value Explore Vehicle Financing Frequently Asked Questions About the New 2027 Silverado V8 Engines Is Chevrolet really bringing back a 5.7L V8 in the Silverado? Yes. Chevrolet has officially confirmed a next-generation 5.7L V8 as one of the four available powertrain choices for the 2027 Silverado 1500. Will the 2027 Silverado have a 6.6L gas V8? Yes. Chevrolet has confirmed a new naturally aspirated 6.6L V8 for the next-generation Silverado 1500. How much horsepower will the 2027 Silverado 5.7L V8 have? Chevrolet has not yet announced the final horsepower rating for the 5.7L V8. Chevrolet has confirmed that the next-generation V8 engines will offer improvements in power and torque. How much horsepower will the 2027 Silverado 6.6L V8 have? The final horsepower figure has not yet been released. Chevrolet has said the 2027 Silverado will offer the most powerful naturally aspirated V8 in its class based on GM-estimated horsepower and torque ratings. Does the 6.6L replace the Silverado's 6.2L V8? The current Silverado lineup offers a 6.2L V8, while the next-generation Silverado introduces a new 6.6L V8 as its larger naturally aspirated gasoline V8 option. Does the 5.7L replace the 5.3L Silverado V8? The next-generation truck changes Chevrolet's V8 offerings from the current 5.3L and 6.2L choices to new 5.7L and 6.6L V8 engines. Will the 2027 Silverado still have the 3.0L Duramax? Yes. Chevrolet has confirmed that the 3.0L Duramax Turbo-Diesel will remain one of the four powertrain choices for the 2027 Silverado 1500. Will the 2027 Silverado still offer the TurboMax engine? Yes. An enhanced 2.7L TurboMax remains part of the lineup and will now be paired with a 10-speed automatic transmission. When will the 2027 Chevrolet Silverado 1500 be available? Chevrolet has said the next-generation 2027 Silverado 1500 is expected to become available in late 2026. Exact timing and availability can vary as production and dealer allocation information becomes available. Where can I learn more about the 2027 Silverado near Kalkaska, Michigan? Voice Motor Sales in Kalkaska will continue following Chevrolet's announcements regarding the 2027 Silverado 1500. Shoppers throughout Northern Michigan can contact Voice Motor Sales for information about current Silverado inventory and future availability. 2027 Silverado 5.7L & 6.6L V8 Engines: What We Know | Voice Motor Sales

Do You Need to Warm Up Your Car in Winter? How Long Should You Idle Before Driving? Reviewed by the Voice Motor Sales Service Department in Kalkaska, Michigan For generations of drivers, warming up the car before leaving on a cold winter morning was simply part of the routine. Start the engine. Go back inside. Finish your coffee. Come outside 10 or 15 minutes later and finally start driving. But modern vehicles are very different from the carbureted vehicles that helped create that habit. So, do you still need to warm up your car before driving in winter? For most modern gasoline-powered vehicles, an extended warm-up period is generally unnecessary. After a brief period following startup, driving gently is usually a more effective way to bring the engine, transmission, and other components toward operating temperature than allowing the vehicle to sit and idle for an extended period. That does not mean you should start a vehicle at 10 degrees below zero and immediately accelerate hard onto the highway. Cold engines and drivetrains still need some consideration. Here is what Northern Michigan drivers should know about warming up a vehicle during cold weather. Do Modern Cars Need to Warm Up Before Driving? Most modern fuel-injected gasoline vehicles do not require the lengthy warm-up periods that older carbureted vehicles once did. After starting the engine, it is generally reasonable to allow a short period for oil to begin circulating, buckle your seat belt, adjust the climate controls, make sure the windshield is clear, and then begin driving. The important part comes next: drive gently until the vehicle warms up. Avoid immediately asking a cold engine for maximum acceleration, high engine speed, or heavy towing loads. Normal, moderate driving allows more than just the engine to begin warming. It also puts the transmission, wheel bearings, differential fluids, steering components, and other drivetrain systems into operation. How Long Should You Warm Up Your Car in Winter? There is no universal number of seconds that applies to every vehicle, temperature, and situation. For most modern vehicles, however, you generally do not need to let the engine idle for 10 or 15 minutes solely for the purpose of protecting the engine. A practical routine is: Start the vehicle. Fasten your seat belt and adjust the controls. Make sure the windshield, windows, mirrors, lights, cameras, and sensors are clear. Allow the engine to stabilize briefly. Begin driving normally but gently. Avoid hard acceleration until the vehicle has had time to warm up. Your owner's manual should always take priority if the manufacturer provides specific cold-weather operating instructions. Why Did Older Cars Need More Warm-Up Time? Much of the traditional advice about warming up vehicles comes from the era of carbureted engines. Carburetors mechanically controlled the mixture of fuel and air entering the engine and could behave differently during cold starts. Older lubricants, engine-management systems, and vehicle technology also made cold-weather operation different from what drivers experience today. Modern vehicles typically use electronic fuel injection and computer-controlled engine management to adjust fueling automatically based on operating conditions. That is one reason the old habit of allowing every vehicle to idle for an extended period no longer applies universally. Is Idling the Best Way to Warm Up an Engine? Usually not. An idling engine is operating under a very light load. Once you begin driving gently, the engine is doing more work and generally reaches operating temperature more efficiently. Driving also begins warming components that do very little while the vehicle remains parked. These can include: Automatic transmission fluid Manual transmission fluid Transfer case components Differential fluid Wheel bearings Suspension components Tires A warm engine does not necessarily mean the entire vehicle is fully warmed. Should You Drive Differently While the Engine Is Cold? Yes. The best approach is generally to drive normally but avoid placing unnecessary stress on a cold powertrain. During the first portion of your drive, avoid: Hard acceleration Very high engine speeds Full-throttle acceleration Heavy towing immediately after startup Unnecessary engine revving while parked Smooth acceleration and moderate engine speeds allow the vehicle to reach normal operating temperature gradually. Does Engine Oil Need Time to Warm Up? Engine oil is one reason drivers should still treat a cold engine differently from a fully warmed engine. Oil becomes more resistant to flow as temperatures fall. Modern engine oils are designed to operate across a wide temperature range, but extremely cold oil still behaves differently from oil at normal operating temperature. That is why using the exact oil viscosity and specification recommended by the vehicle manufacturer is particularly important in cold climates. Starting the engine begins circulating oil, but the oil does not instantly reach normal operating temperature. A brief idle followed by gentle driving allows the lubrication system and engine to warm progressively. Why You Shouldn't Rev a Cold Engine Revving the engine while parked does not provide a shortcut to properly warming the entire vehicle. Instead, it can place additional load and speed on internal engine components before the engine and lubricants have reached normal operating temperature. Let the engine settle after startup and then drive smoothly. What If It's Extremely Cold Outside? Northern Michigan occasionally experiences temperatures far below freezing, and extremely cold conditions can justify giving the vehicle a little more time before leaving. The engine may crank more slowly, fluids may be colder, windows may require substantial defrosting, and snow or ice may need to be removed. Even then, there is an important distinction between allowing a vehicle a little additional time in severe cold and automatically idling it for 15 or 20 minutes every winter morning. Follow the manufacturer's cold-weather recommendations for your particular vehicle. What Is a Block Heater? Some vehicles used in very cold climates may be equipped with or offer an engine block heater or another type of engine-heating system. Depending on the design, a block heater can help warm part of the engine or cooling system before startup. This may help with cold-weather starting and reduce the amount of time required for the engine to begin warming. If your vehicle has a factory-installed block heater, follow the instructions in the owner's manual regarding when and how to use it. What Is Remote Start Actually Good For? Remote start can be extremely convenient during a Northern Michigan winter—but cabin comfort and visibility are often the biggest benefits. Starting the vehicle before you get in can give the climate-control system time to begin: Warming the passenger compartment Defrosting the windshield Defogging windows Warming heated seats, if equipped and programmed to activate Warming the steering wheel, if equipped and programmed to activate That does not mean the engine mechanically requires an extended remote-start cycle before it can be driven. Remote start is often more about making the vehicle comfortable and getting the glass clear enough for safe driving. Defrosting Is a Good Reason to Wait Even if the engine does not need a long warm-up, you should not begin driving until you can see properly. If frost, ice, snow, or interior fog is blocking your view, allow the defroster enough time to work and use an appropriate ice scraper when necessary. Before driving, clear: The windshield Side windows Rear glass Exterior mirrors Headlights Taillights Exterior cameras Driver-assistance sensors when applicable Also remove accumulated snow from the hood, roof, and trunk or tonneau area so it does not blow onto your windshield or another vehicle while driving. Never Warm Up a Gasoline or Diesel Vehicle in a Closed Garage This is one winter rule that deserves particular emphasis. Never leave a gasoline or diesel vehicle running inside a closed or enclosed garage. Engine exhaust contains carbon monoxide, an odorless and potentially deadly gas. Opening the garage door after the vehicle has already been running inside is not a substitute for preventing exhaust accumulation in the first place. If you use remote start, make sure the vehicle is outdoors and the exhaust outlet is clear of snow or other obstructions. Does Warming Up Your Car Waste Gas? A gasoline or diesel engine consumes fuel whenever it is running. Extended idling therefore uses fuel while the vehicle travels zero miles. If an extended warm-up is not required for visibility, passenger comfort, or a vehicle-specific reason, letting the engine idle longer than necessary generally provides little benefit while continuing to consume fuel. Does Idling Charge a Weak Battery? If your vehicle is becoming difficult to start in cold weather, letting it idle for a few extra minutes is not a substitute for addressing a weak battery or charging-system problem. Cold temperatures place additional demands on automotive batteries, and a battery that seemed acceptable during summer may struggle once temperatures fall. Warning signs can include: Slow engine cranking Clicking when attempting to start Intermittent starting problems Electrical systems behaving unusually during startup A battery that repeatedly needs a jump-start If the vehicle is consistently slow to start, have the battery and charging system checked rather than relying on additional idle time. Learn more about battery service at Voice Motor Sales. What About Diesel Trucks? Diesel engines have their own cold-weather operating characteristics, so owners should follow the manufacturer's instructions for their particular truck. Some diesel vehicles use glow plugs or other intake-heating systems during cold starts. A dashboard indicator may tell the driver when the starting sequence is ready. Diesel owners should also pay attention to: Proper cold-weather fuel Fuel-filter condition Battery condition Correct engine oil Block-heater recommendations Manufacturer cold-start procedures Once running normally, the same basic principle applies: avoid demanding maximum power from a cold engine immediately after startup. What About Turbocharged Engines? Many modern vehicles use turbocharged engines. Turbochargers operate at very high speeds and depend on proper lubrication, making good oil maintenance particularly important. After a cold start, avoid immediately demanding maximum boost or full-throttle acceleration. Start the vehicle, allow it to stabilize briefly, and drive moderately while the engine and oil warm. Do Hybrid Vehicles Need to Warm Up? Hybrid vehicles manage engine operation differently from conventional gasoline vehicles. Depending on the vehicle and outside temperature, the gasoline engine may start automatically, shut off, restart, or operate according to the vehicle's own control strategy. Drivers generally should allow the hybrid system to manage itself and follow the cold-weather recommendations in the owner's manual rather than attempting to force a traditional warm-up routine. Do Electric Vehicles Need to Warm Up? Electric vehicles do not have a gasoline engine that needs to idle before driving. However, cold temperatures can affect battery performance and driving range. Many EVs allow drivers to precondition the vehicle before leaving. When possible, preconditioning an EV while it remains connected to a charger can warm the cabin—and on vehicles equipped for it, help condition the battery—while drawing energy from the electrical supply instead of relying entirely on stored battery energy. Should You Warm Up the Transmission? The transmission is one reason gentle driving is useful after a cold start. Letting the engine idle primarily warms the engine and cooling system. It does comparatively little to warm many drivetrain components. Once the vehicle begins moving, transmission fluid and other drivetrain lubricants begin circulating under normal operating conditions. Smooth acceleration during the first portion of the drive allows these systems to warm gradually. What About Four-Wheel Drive Systems? Trucks and SUVs commonly used in Northern Michigan may have transfer cases, front and rear differentials, and four-wheel-drive components containing their own lubricants. Those systems do not fully warm just because the engine has been idling in the driveway. Another reason to drive moderately at first is to allow the entire drivetrain—not simply the engine coolant—to come up in temperature. How Long Does It Take a Car to Fully Warm Up? There is no single answer. Warm-up time varies based on: Outside temperature Engine design Vehicle type Driving speed Engine load Oil specification Whether the vehicle is gasoline, diesel, hybrid, or electric Also remember that the coolant-temperature gauge does not necessarily tell you that every fluid and component in the vehicle has reached full operating temperature. Can You Damage Your Engine by Driving Immediately? Starting a modern vehicle and beginning to drive after a brief stabilization period is generally different from immediately subjecting the engine to maximum load. The behavior that deserves more caution is aggressive driving while the powertrain is still very cold. A reasonable routine is simply: Start it, buckle up, make sure you can see, and drive gently. What If Your Car Runs Rough When It's Cold? A cold engine may sound or feel somewhat different immediately after startup, but severe or persistent rough running should not simply be dismissed as normal winter behavior. Have the vehicle inspected if you notice: Repeated stalling Severe shaking Misfiring Unusual knocking or mechanical noises A flashing check engine light Difficulty keeping the engine running Excessive or unusual exhaust smoke Cold weather can sometimes reveal an underlying problem that was less noticeable during warmer conditions. What If Your Car Takes a Long Time to Produce Heat? Cabin heat naturally takes longer during very cold weather because the engine and cooling system have more warming to do. However, if your vehicle suddenly takes much longer to produce warm air than it did previously—or never produces adequate heat—there may be a cooling-system or HVAC concern. Problems involving coolant level, the thermostat, heater core, blend doors, actuators, or other components can affect cabin heating. If your heater is not working correctly, see our guide: Why Is My Car Heater Blowing Cold Air? 7 Common Causes. A Simple Cold-Morning Routine For most modern vehicles, winter mornings do not need to involve a complicated warm-up procedure. Make sure the exhaust outlet is not blocked by snow. Start the vehicle outdoors. Turn on the appropriate defrost and climate settings. Fasten your seat belt. Clear all necessary snow, frost, and ice. Make sure cameras, lights, mirrors, and windows are clear. Begin driving when visibility is safe. Accelerate moderately while the vehicle warms. Avoid high engine loads until the powertrain has had time to reach operating temperature. Always follow any vehicle-specific cold-weather instructions in your owner's manual. What Our Service Team Recommends At Voice Motor Sales, we recommend separating two different questions: Does the engine need to idle for a long time before you drive? For most modern gasoline vehicles, no. Should you give a cold vehicle some consideration before demanding maximum performance? Absolutely. Start the vehicle, allow it to stabilize briefly, make sure you have full visibility, and then drive moderately while it warms. Extended idling every morning is generally unnecessary solely for engine warm-up, but allowing additional time for windshield defrosting and passenger comfort can still be useful. Preparing Your Vehicle for a Northern Michigan Winter Cold-weather starting is only one part of winter vehicle preparation. Before temperatures fall significantly around Kalkaska, Traverse City, Grayling, Cadillac, Lake City, Mancelona, and surrounding Northern Michigan communities, consider checking: Battery condition Engine coolant and freeze protection Tire condition and pressure Windshield wipers Winter-grade washer fluid Exterior lighting Heating and defrost operation Brakes For additional seasonal maintenance information, read our Fall Vehicle Maintenance Checklist. Need Help Getting Your Vehicle Ready for Cold Weather? If your vehicle is becoming difficult to start, the heater is not working properly, the battery seems weak, or you want to take care of routine maintenance before winter, the Service Department at Voice Motor Sales in Kalkaska can help. Visit the Voice Motor Sales Service Department to learn more about available maintenance and repair services. You can also: Learn About Battery Service Learn About Tires View Current Service & Parts Specials Schedule a Service Appointment More Cold-Weather Vehicle Resources Fall Vehicle Maintenance Checklist Why Is My Car Heater Blowing Cold Air? 7 Common Causes Battery Service & Replacement Tire Care at Voice Motor Sales Voice Motor Sales Service Department Schedule Service Frequently Asked Questions About Warming Up a Car in Winter Do you need to warm up your car before driving in winter? Most modern fuel-injected gasoline vehicles do not require a lengthy idle period before driving. After allowing the engine to stabilize briefly and making sure visibility is safe, begin driving gently and avoid hard acceleration until the vehicle warms. How long should you let your car warm up before driving? There is no universal time for every vehicle. For most modern vehicles, a brief period after startup is generally sufficient before beginning to drive gently. Additional time may be needed to defrost windows, clear snow and ice, or follow vehicle-specific instructions during extreme cold. Is 10 minutes too long to warm up a car? Most modern gasoline vehicles generally do not need to idle for 10 minutes solely to warm the engine. Drivers may choose a longer remote-start period for cabin comfort or windshield defrosting, but extended idling is usually unnecessary for mechanical warm-up alone. Is it better to idle or drive to warm up a car? Gentle driving generally warms the engine and other drivetrain components more effectively than prolonged idling. Avoid aggressive acceleration and high engine loads until the vehicle has had time to warm. Should you warm up a car when it is below zero? Extreme cold can justify allowing somewhat more time after startup, particularly for defrosting and vehicle-specific cold-weather procedures. However, modern vehicles generally still do not require lengthy idling solely for engine warm-up. Follow your owner's manual. Does remote start help your engine in winter? Remote start can begin warming the engine and is particularly useful for passenger comfort and windshield defrosting. For most modern vehicles, however, a full remote-start cycle is not normally required simply to make the engine safe to drive. Should you rev your engine to warm it up faster? No. Avoid unnecessary revving immediately after a cold start. Let the engine stabilize and then drive moderately while the engine and lubricants warm. Do diesel trucks need to warm up longer? Diesel engines can have different cold-start procedures, including glow-plug or intake-heating systems. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for the specific diesel vehicle and avoid immediately placing a cold engine under maximum load. Do electric cars need to warm up? Electric vehicles do not have a gasoline engine that needs to idle before driving. However, preconditioning the cabin and, on equipped vehicles, the battery can improve cold-weather comfort and performance. Preconditioning while connected to a charger can also help preserve stored battery energy. Why does my car take so long to heat up in winter? Very cold temperatures naturally increase warm-up time. If cabin heat is much weaker than normal, takes unusually long to appear, or never becomes warm, a thermostat, coolant, heater-core, HVAC, or other vehicle concern may need to be diagnosed. Where can I have my vehicle checked before winter near Kalkaska, Michigan? The Voice Motor Sales Service Department in Kalkaska provides maintenance and cold-weather vehicle services for drivers throughout Kalkaska and surrounding Northern Michigan communities. Do You Need to Warm Up Your Car in Winter? | Voice Motor Sales