How long should you crank the engine if the temperature is about 0 degrees?

When cranking an engine at low temperatures, like around 0 degrees Fahrenheit, it's important to manage the duration of the cranking period to prevent wear on the starter and battery. Cranking for no more than 30 seconds allows the engine's oil to circulate and lubricate the internal components without risking damage from excessive strain.

At very low temperatures, oil thickens, making it harder for the engine to turn over. Cranking for a short duration helps to limit the risk of the starter overworking and allows the battery to maintain enough power for subsequent attempts if the first one doesn’t succeed. If the engine fails to start after this time, it's recommended to wait for a brief period to allow the battery to recover before attempting to crank again.

In contrast, cranking for a longer duration could lead to overheating the starter motor, draining the battery, and increased wear on engine components, which is why options suggesting longer cranking times are less advisable in this context. Thus, a 30-second limit is a balanced and effective approach for cranking the engine in very cold conditions.