During the winter I don't get to drive much, but also don't want to "winterize" my car since there are a lot of nice days during this time out here in Co. What is the recommended warm up time? I've read that if you don't run the engine long enough you creat condensation which will prematurely rust out your muffler on the other hand people tell you not to idle the car too long. I keep my battery on a trickle charger to keep it charged. Any advice?

 

Hi
You are right short runs, or start ups and stops, do deposit a lot of water through condensation as part of the combustion process. Yes this impacts the exhaust system, but it also generates condensationthrough heating and cooling in the engine crankcase. This water runs into the oil, and eventually does emulsify to some extent with the lubricating oil. With todays modern oils this is less of the problem, but should still be avoided.
I think you are looking at about 10-15 minutes but with a fast tick over say 1500rpm by say wedging something against the throttle pedal. Just normal idle for long periods can tend to "dirty up"the intakes, combustion chambers, and exhaust tracks.
Give it a go, and once you are showing full operating temperature, that the amont of time you need.If the weather is particularly cold limit the air intake by partially closing off the grlle with a piece of card.
Best Regards Big Bob

 

Thanks for the comprehensive answer Big Bob