etukäynnistyksen

Etukäynnistys, a Finnish term, translates to "pre-start" or "pre-heating" and refers to a system that warms up a vehicle's engine and cabin before the main engine starts. This is particularly common in countries with cold climates, such as Finland, where extremely low temperatures can make starting a vehicle difficult and uncomfortable.

The primary function of an etukäynnistys system is to prevent cold-start wear on the engine. When an engine is started from cold, oil is thicker and does not circulate as efficiently, leading to increased friction and potential damage over time. By pre-heating the engine, the oil becomes more fluid, allowing for better lubrication from the moment the engine begins to run. This also contributes to a smoother and more immediate start.

Beyond engine protection, etukäynnistys systems enhance driver comfort. They typically include a cabin heater that begins to warm the interior before the driver even enters the vehicle. This makes the driving experience more pleasant, especially during winter months, by eliminating the need to wait for the engine to warm up the cabin.

There are generally two main types of etukäynnistys systems: electric and fuel-powered. Electric systems often draw power from the mains, connecting to a block heater and an interior fan. Fuel-powered systems, known as auxiliary heaters or "webastot" (after a popular brand name), burn a small amount of the vehicle's fuel to generate heat for both the engine coolant and the cabin. The operation of these systems can be controlled manually, via a timer, or remotely through a smartphone app, offering convenience and flexibility to the user.