How Long Can a Car Be Parked Without Being Driven?

[VanHope]

It is best not to leave a car parked for more than 20 days without driving it. The duration a car can remain parked is not a fixed number, and it is recommended that owners avoid long-term parking. Prolonged parking can lead to a decline in the performance of various components, increasing the frequency of malfunctions when driving and raising maintenance costs for the owner. Precautions for long-term car parking: 1. Choose a good parking spot: When a car is not driven for an extended period, selecting an appropriate parking location is crucial. Ideally, the vehicle should be parked in a garage for better protection. If parking outdoors, using a car cover can help maintain the cleanliness of the paint and protect it from sun, rain, and damage from debris like fallen leaves. 2. Avoid using the handbrake: For cars parked long-term, it is advisable not to engage the handbrake. Extended parking can cause the braking system to react chemically with moisture and oxygen in the air, leading to varying degrees of rust on the brake discs and pads. In severe cases, this can result in wheel lock-up.

[RowanDella]

I think it's best not to leave a car parked for too long without moving it. From my past experience, the battery tends to drain easily if left unused for more than two weeks, especially during cold winter weather. I remember once when I was away on a business trip for a month without driving, and upon returning, turning the key yielded no response at all. I had to call for roadside assistance to jump-start the car, and eventually had to replace the battery. Tires are also an issue—if left stationary for too long, the parts in contact with the ground can flatten and deform, potentially affecting the balance while driving. I recommend starting the car every seven to ten days and driving a few kilometers to charge the engine and battery. If planning to park the car long-term, such as for one or two months, it's best to inflate the tires to the proper pressure, disconnect the battery's negative terminal, or simply ask a friend to start it periodically to prevent parts from rusting or fluids from settling. In short, don't assume that parking the car means everything is fine—paying attention to these details can save a lot on repair costs.

[SanEloise]

Honestly, the technology in new cars has improved a lot these days. For example, many come with intelligent battery management systems that might keep the battery alive even after sitting idle for weeks. But you can't rely on this too much. From my years of driving experience, I've noticed that problems start to emerge after leaving the car parked for more than ten days: tires may go flat, brake discs rust (especially noticeable in humid areas), and there might be a screeching sound upon restarting. It's best to idle the car for a few kilometers every week or so to keep the engine running smoothly. The most annoying issue is shortened battery life because small circuits still drain power while parked, potentially leaving you unable to start the car next time. To prevent mishaps, getting a timed charging post or a portable charger is a good idea – these things are quite affordable now. In short, don't be lazy in daily maintenance; move your car more often, and it will last longer.

[VonTessa]

Leaving the car parked for too long is definitely not advisable. I recommend not exceeding one week. The battery won't hold up - typically, lead-acid batteries can be depleted after about two weeks of parking, making it difficult to start the car. Tires may deform under prolonged pressure, causing vibrations when driving, and in severe cases, may require replacement. Additionally, fluids can settle, potentially leading to uneven engine wear upon restart. A simple solution is to conduct regular checks. If parking for more than 10 days, inflate the tires slightly and take a short drive to warm up the vehicle. Weather plays a significant role; during rainy seasons, be cautious of moisture accelerating rust formation.