Sometimes, driving your car has to take a back seat. Traveling, going to college, working from home or storing your summer ride for winter may put your vehicle out of commission for an extended time. But it's not as simple as putting the car in park and saying, “See you later!" A lot can happen when a vehicle isn't driven for several months. That's why it's essential to take the necessary steps to prevent damage from occurring and ensure the engine will purr when you're ready to drive it again.
The time you can go without driving your vehicle depends on several factors, such as age, overall condition and where and how it is being stored. Generally speaking, letting your car sit unused for a few weeks or months is acceptable, but only if you prepare your vehicle in advance.
Leaving your car undriven for an extended period can lead to several issues. Here are some potential problems that can arise.
Your car's battery can lose its charge over time if the vehicle is not being driven regularly, which is how batteries recharge and maintain their expected lifespan. This can lead to a dead battery that leaves you stranded and requires replacement. Plus, the more you attempt to restart the battery, the faster it will drain.
Need help jump-starting your dead car battery? This article explains how.
Your tires can develop flat spots when the car is not driven for too long. This is due to prolonged pressure in one area from the vehicle's weight on the tires and decreasing tire pressure that leaks out over time. Flat spots are troublesome because they can cause vibrations when driving and lead to costly tire replacements from premature wear.
Need ways to make your tires last longer? Check out this article for helpful tips.
Brake pads and rotors can rust or seize if left unused for an extended time—especially in damp conditions—which is a severe safety concern when your vehicle is back in service. Before driving, listen for squeaking or grinding noises when applying the brakes, as these can be indicators of rust.
Trying to figure out what to look and listen for? This article can help you deal with squeaky brakes.
When a gas tank is left empty, moisture can cause it to rust. Filling the tank with fuel is the most effective way to prevent this. A full tank leaves no room for air and moisture to enter, reducing the risk of internal corrosion. Adding a fuel stabilizer can further protect the tank from rust and corrosion.
Are you interested in learning about the best gas for your car? Check out this article
Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant and other vital fluids can degrade over time, reducing effectiveness and leading to potential component damage. Lack of lubrication from infrequent use can also cause vehicle components to wear out faster when the car is eventually driven.
Need to be sure of when you change your fluids? This article explains more.
When your car is parked outdoors for a long time, exposure to the elements—especially the sun—can fade the paint and wear down the clear coat, causing the finish to crack, peel and flake. Bird droppings, tree sap, dust, dirt and other pollutants can also accumulate on the exterior, creating a layer of grime that's hard to clean. Additionally, the weather stripping can dry out and crack, causing windows and doors to leak or reduce their effectiveness.
Want to keep your showroom shine? Car detailing can help.
When a car sits unused, pests may infest it, causing damage by chewing wires. Sunlight can also fade and crack the dashboard and upholstery, while moisture can lead to mold, mildew and unpleasant odors, especially when the car is parked outdoors.
Unsure of how to keep your car's interior looking its best? These car care tips can help.
Moisture can cause rust on the body, undercarriage and components when parking your vehicle for too long. That's especially the case when the car is not stored in a well-ventilated space or climate-controlled garage, where moisture and humidity levels can be controlled.
Looking for ways to prevent rust? This undercoating article is a great place to start.
Use these helpful tips to prepare your car for an extended period of sitting and ensure it turns on and is safe to drive when you need it.
Look for a nearby, secure and accessible storage location, ideally indoors, that is climate-controlled to protect against weather, dust, temperature fluctuations and theft. If you can't park indoors, invest in a quality, breathable car cover to protect your car from the elements, dust and minor scrapes.
Cleaning your car before not driving it for some time may seem unnecessary, but it's an important step. Remove all the dirt, dust, bugs, droppings and other debris that can damage the paint and cause rust. Make sure to vacuum out any crumbs to avoid attracting unwelcome critters, and close up any entry points for pests. It's also a good idea to condition interior surfaces, such as leather upholstery, so they remain supple.
Fuel up and add an engine stabilizer to the gas tank before storing your vehicle. An oil change is also a good idea to avoid old, dirty oil corroding the engine. Remember to top off all fluids and schedule a future date in your calendar to check the levels and change the fluids periodically, especially if your car hasn't been driven for a long time. Fuel and fluid can degrade over time, and a flush could be necessary.
It's recommended to slightly overinflate your tires to account for air loss when your vehicle sits for an extended period. Your owner's manual or door jamb will list the recommended psi for your car. Remember to check the tire pressure regularly to avoid creating flat spots.
Avoid engaging your parking brake if your vehicle is unused for a long time, as it can cause the brake pads to fuse with the rotors. A better option is to use a tire stopper to prevent your vehicle from rolling.
Maintaining battery health while storing your vehicle for an extended time is essential. Batteries are designed to be topped off, and draining a battery completely can lead to premature replacement. Hook up a battery tender or trickle charger to ensure the battery stays charged and healthy.
If you can, take your vehicle for a drive once every week or so. Starting the car and getting its systems and components operating can help prevent problems like leaks, seized parts or rust. If you're away, ask a friend or family member to start up the engine or take the car for a quick spin.
Life changes, and sometimes, your once-trusted car is out of regular commission. No matter the reason your vehicle sits unused for some time, it's essential to be attentive to its needs. By storing your car correctly, you can help ensure it's ready to hit the road when you need it again.
If your car needs attention after a long period of not driving it, the Synchrony Car Care credit card can help you pay for car repairs promptly, keeping you on the road and where you need to be. Learn more and apply now.
