In older vehicles, it used to be a common practice to wait for the engine to warm up before turning on the air conditioning. The idea behind this practice was to reduce the strain on the engine during the initial startup, as the air conditioning compressor requires some engine power to operate.
However, in modern cars with advanced engine management systems, this practice is generally unnecessary. Here's why:
Efficient Engine Management: Modern engines are designed to handle the additional load from accessories like the air conditioning even during cold starts. The engine management system adjusts the engine's fuel-air mixture and other parameters to ensure efficient performance.
Fast Warm-Up: Modern engines warm up relatively quickly, especially if you start driving gently. The engine reaches its optimal operating temperature faster when it is under load, as opposed to idling.
Cabin Comfort: Turning on the air conditioning early can help defog the windows faster during cold weather, improving visibility and overall comfort.
Engine Wear: Idling for an extended period without driving puts unnecessary wear on the engine, as it operates with less efficiency during idle conditions.
It's worth noting that if your car is equipped with a turbocharger or a supercharger, it's a good idea to let the engine idle for a short moment after starting to allow the oil to circulate properly through the turbocharger or supercharger before driving.
In conclusion, waiting for the engine to warm up before turning on the air conditioning is not necessary in modern cars. You can turn on the air conditioning as soon as you start driving, and the engine management system will handle the load efficiently. Just drive gently during the first few minutes until the engine reaches its optimal operating temperature.