Could you ruin a new car by revving the engine to hard?

the noise was the belts squealing no doubt, most late models have a limiter when in neutral for the manufactures protection, ever hear of new engine break in , once in a while someone gets it!

So over all does it hurt anything?

Revving the engine in neutral for a brief moment is generally not harmful to the engine, especially if it's done infrequently. However, it's essential to be mindful of the engine's limits to avoid any potential damage. If your car has been running normally and you haven't noticed any unusual sounds or performance issues after that one-time incident, it's likely that no significant damage occurred. Modern engines are designed to handle brief revving without problems. Keep an eye (or ear) on your car's performance, and if you notice any unusual noises, vibrations, or changes in how the car drives, it would be advisable to have it inspected by a qualified mechanic. Otherwise, with only 2,700 miles on your new Scion TC and no immediate issues, it's probably in good shape. Remember, though, it's always a good idea to treat your vehicle gently and avoid unnecessary revving to ensure its longevity. If you have specific concerns or notice any changes in your car's behavior, consulting with a professional mechanic is the best course of action.

Revving the engine in neutral, also known as "free revving," can potentially cause damage to the engine, especially if done excessively or aggressively. However, the impact of a single incident, as you described, is less likely to result in significant damage. Here are a few things to consider: Transmission Safety: Revving the engine in neutral generally poses less risk to the transmission than doing so while the car is in gear. However, it's still important to avoid excessively high RPMs. Engine Damage: Excessive revving can lead to increased wear on engine components, such as the pistons, connecting rods, and valves. If the engine made a strange noise during the incident, it's possible that some stress was applied to these components. Observing Normal Operation: Since you've been driving the car for a few days and it seems normal, it's a positive sign. However, occasional noises or issues might not manifest immediately, and problems could potentially emerge later. Monitor for Warning Signs: Keep an eye (or ear) out for any unusual sounds, vibrations, or performance issues while driving. If you notice anything out of the ordinary, it would be advisable to have the car inspected by a professional. Regular Maintenance: Ensure that you follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule, including oil changes and other routine checks. Regular maintenance can help detect and address issues early. While a single incident of high revving may not cause severe damage, it's essential to be cautious and attentive to the car's performance. If you have concerns or notice anything unusual, consulting with a qualified mechanic or taking the car to a dealership for inspection would be a prudent course of action.

Excessive revving of a new car's engine, particularly during the break-in phase, can lead to potential damage. Adhering to the manufacturer's outlined break-in procedures in the owner's manual is crucial to prevent premature wear on internal components. It's advisable to avoid sustained high RPMs to ensure the engine's longevity and optimal performance.