How Long Can a Car Be Left Unused Without Affecting Its Performance?

[McAriel]

Generally, a car should not be left parked and unused for more than 15 days. If there's no urgent need to drive, it's advisable to take the car out for a short drive around the neighborhood in the evening. This practice helps protect the car, as prolonged inactivity can lead to damage. Common issues arising from a stationary car include: (1) Thickening of fluids: Over time, the fluids inside the car become more viscous and settle at the bottom of the engine. Upon restarting, it's essential to warm up the car to ensure even distribution of fluids throughout the engine, preventing excessive wear. (2) Battery discharge: The car battery continuously discharges, which is harmful. Many have experienced that leaving a car unused for one or two months results in a discharged battery, making it impossible to start the car without a jump-start. Regular short drives can prevent this and extend battery life. (3) Tire bulging: Tires also suffer from prolonged inactivity. When a car remains stationary, the tires bear constant pressure at fixed points, leading to uneven tire pressure. In hot weather, this can cause bulging, significantly reducing safety.