Are prolonged interstate speeds (78-79mph) hard on small 1.5L engine?

HWYHONDA
Fri, 27 Mar 2015 17:32:40 +0000
Maintenance/Repairs

Hello,

I just started a daily commute of 85 miles each way and I am wondering if it is as bad for my car as it is on my mind.

My question…

My car is a Honda Fit with a small 1.5L engine. I usually cruise at a constant speed of 78-79mph for about 80 miles of the commute each way. The Fit has a 5-speed and in 5th gear the engine is humming at around 3,800-3,900 RPM. The question is, as I put around 1k on my car a week, is it bad for my engine to run it this way? I’ve heard highways miles are better as far as brakes, starters, so on but I am wondering if I am just not driving a car suitable for my commute.

Would it be beneficial to ditch the small 1.5L engine for a bigger V6? Or, is it perfectly fine to drive at a constant interstate speed with RPMs near 4,000 RPM. What problems could this potentially cause? Any recommended maintenance tips for this type of wear and tear?

Thanks guys!

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