How Long Can a Car Sit Before It Needs to Be Started?
3 Answers
If a car is parked for half a month, it needs to be started. When a car is not started for a long time, most of the lubricating oil that should adhere to the lubrication components will flow back to the oil pan due to gravity, reducing the lubrication effect in various moving parts. Without the protection of an oil film, metal can easily react with oxygen to form an oxide film, increasing friction and making it difficult to start. The function of the starting system is to convert the electrical energy from the battery into mechanical energy through the starter, initiating the engine's operation. The starting system is designed to transition the engine from a stationary state to an operational one. This requires an external force to rotate the engine's crankshaft, enabling the pistons to begin their up-and-down motion, drawing the combustible air-fuel mixture into the cylinders, and then sequentially entering the subsequent working cycles.
I've been driving for over twenty years, and indeed, there are quite a few issues when a car is parked for a long time. Generally speaking, if it's parked for more than a week, you should start the engine and let it run for about ten minutes. The main concern is that the battery might slowly drain, especially in older cars or during winter—parking for two to three weeks can easily lead to difficulty starting. Additionally, engine oil may settle or evaporate, causing insufficient lubrication and affecting the engine's lifespan. Moreover, tires can deform and lose pressure if left stationary for too long. My suggestion is to check if the battery terminals are secure when parking. If you anticipate a long parking period, it's best to start the car weekly and move it slightly. Also, pay attention to the weather—during colder temperatures, the parking duration should be shorter. In short, starting the car isn’t a big task, but it’s crucial for protecting the vehicle.
As a young car owner, I once came back from a two-week trip to find my car wouldn't start, and had to awkwardly ask a friend for help. Since then, I've made it a habit to start the engine every ten days or so. The reason is that the battery self-discharges quickly, and can be depleted after just over ten days of parking; without the engine running, the fuel system is prone to rust or clogging. Just let it idle for five to ten minutes after starting, which can recharge the battery and keep the parts lubricated. Additionally, long-term parking can cause tire deformation or brake sticking, so starting the car not only recharges the battery but also prevents these issues. If you're usually busy, using a smart charger connected to the battery is also quite convenient. In short, don't make the same mistake I did—develop this habit early.
