Was reading this thread on various ways to preheat your car during the colder months. They mention that in order to use a dipstick heater, you need a metal oil tube. Does anyone know what we have? Thx.

Two Guys Garage Forum - Engine heaters

 

(I don't want to do the engine blocker heater)

 

No dice huh?

 

Why not go the block heater route?

 

Dipstick heaters are less expensive and easier to install from what I know.

 

Well, the fit's regular heater is only ~$50. That said, it doesn't look like an easy install.

 

are you going further north than CT?
if not then just use the recommended 5w20 oil and you
should be fine without a heater. just let your car warm up for
2 minutes and your set. the fit warms up very quick.

 

I know the Fit will start on the cold mornings, but it ~is~ doing the most damage to the engine at those ambient temps. If I can minimize that on the cheap (heated dipstick seems like the way to go), then why not?

I think a 0w oil is the single biggest benefit to cold morning startups and minimizing engine wear.... heater of some sorts for the engine would be second.

The engine block heater involves some install I'm not willing to do.

 

The block heater also gives the advantage of warming more than just the oil. Emissions go down and gives the heater core (for heating the cabin) a head start. Sounds like your city or state doesn't subsidize these heaters.