Does leaving a car unused for a year cause damage?
2 Answers
Leaving a car unused for a year can cause damage. The engine oil will likely expire and need replacement. If the battery is left uncharged for a year, it will severely discharge, and the terminals may develop sulfide corrosion, making it difficult to repair once it fails. If the vehicle is parked indoors for an extended period, you can disconnect the negative terminal of the battery and slightly increase the tire pressure. If possible, drive the car once a week and take it on a highway run once a month. This helps prevent issues like tire bulging due to prolonged pressure on one spot. Before driving, it's advisable to warm up the engine to ensure proper lubrication.
Leaving a car unused for a year can indeed cause significant damage, as I've seen many times from experience. The most immediate issue is the battery, which can completely discharge or even suffer permanent damage, making it difficult to start the car later. Tires can develop flat spots or lose air pressure from prolonged weight, leading to unstable driving. Fluid problems are also serious—engine oil and brake fluid may degrade or solidify, and running the engine directly could cause internal wear. Brake discs may rust, and electronic systems could develop poor contacts or corrosion. Over time, seals age, making the car more prone to dust and moisture ingress, accelerating rust. Before storage, it's best to fill the tank with fuel and add a stabilizer, disconnect the battery's negative terminal, and have someone start and run the engine for a few minutes periodically. If parked outdoors, use a cover to protect against weather, which can reduce damage, but it's still advisable not to leave the car unused for so long.
