Should I warm up my car before driving in cold weather? Here's what experts say

As frigid temperatures engulf large swaths of the nation, auto experts are debunking a longtime myth about driving in cold weather.

AAA, a federation of motor clubs, recommends drivers start their engine and allow it to idle only for the time it takes to fasten their seat belts. This time ensures lubricating oil reaches all of the engine's vital parts.

In addition to unnecessary engine wear, the Environmental Protection Agency says letting your car idle causes air pollution and wastes fuel. Driving your car normally and avoiding hard acceleration will warm up the engine faster than leaving it idle for several minutes, according to AAA.

But experts warn that older cars and electric vehicles may need some extra care before hitting the road.

The warm-up routine started decades ago when vehicles were more prone to stalling in frigid temperatures, according to Carfax.