Does leaving a car unused for a year cause damage?

[RachelRose]

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.

[Kristin]

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.

[DiVera]

My old neighbor's car sat unused for a year, and the battery died when trying to start it, costing about a thousand yuan to replace. The tires were badly flat and made loud noises while driving—the mechanic said prolonged inactivity caused uneven pressure and deformation. I advised him to check fluid levels before storing the car; if the engine oil was old, replace it or add anti-corrosion additives. Parking in a garage is better than outdoors, reducing rubber component aging from sun exposure. Another tip is not to keep tire pressure too low and to drive it occasionally to prevent rust. While a year of inactivity won’t immediately ruin a car, repair costs can add up. When I learned to drive, I was taught regular maintenance is key to safety.

[ElisaLynn]

It is definitely harmful. The battery may die completely and require replacement. Tires can become out of round or develop cracks if left under pressure for too long, posing a danger when driving at high speeds. Deteriorated fluids can directly damage the engine. Storing the car in a garage is better than outdoors to avoid moisture corrosion. It is recommended to fully charge the battery before storage, disconnect the battery cables, and occasionally start the engine to warm it up.