Does driving a car once a week affect the vehicle?
2 Answers
Driving a car once a week does not affect the vehicle. Do not let the fuel tank run empty: Refuel before the fuel warning light comes on. Modern cars use electronic fuel injection engines, and the fuel pump relies on gasoline for cooling. If the fuel level is too low, the pump cannot be cooled, leading to overheating and potential damage. Avoid sudden acceleration when starting: Shift gears when reaching a certain RPM. The ideal RPM varies by vehicle model. When starting, avoid pressing the accelerator too hard; gradually increase speed instead. Shifting between 2000-2500 RPM is generally reasonable. For automatic transmission cars, which start slower, many drivers tend to accelerate abruptly. This only increases fuel consumption, as automatic cars also need to shift at normal RPM. The correct method is to slightly release the accelerator when the RPM approaches 2000-2500, wait for it to drop, then accelerate again, allowing the car to smoothly shift to the next gear. Avoid lugging the engine while driving: Shift gears promptly when the engine starts to vibrate. Lugging the engine causes excessive pressure, insufficient power, incomplete fuel combustion, and carbon buildup in the injectors, which can shorten the engine's lifespan.
Every time I hear someone ask if it's okay to drive just once a week, I recall my neighbor's car breaking down last time. In fact, cars are like people—they develop problems if left idle for too long. The most obvious issue is the battery; leaving it unused gradually drains the charge, and when you need it, you might not even be able to start the engine. Tires are another concern; staying in one spot for too long can cause deformation, making them unsafe for high-speed driving over time. Engine oil also settles, reducing its lubricating effect and increasing engine wear during startup. Components like brake discs and various seals are prone to rust or aging if left untouched for extended periods. I recommend driving for at least ten minutes every three to four days, especially in winter when you should be even more diligent. If regular driving isn't possible, disconnecting the battery or buying a charger can save a lot of trouble.
