How Long Can a Car Sit Without Being Driven Before Problems Occur?
2 Answers
Under normal circumstances, leaving a car undriven for over a month will have some impact, though relatively minor at this stage. However, once it exceeds three months, the effects become significantly more pronounced. Here are the reasons: 1. Generally, if a car isn't started for a month, certain mechanical components may be affected due to lack of oil lubrication. If left unused for over three months, the engine oil can deteriorate due to oxidation, potentially causing rust and corrosion on some parts. Consumables like the battery, tires, and paint will also experience varying degrees of impact. 2. A new battery might retain its charge for up to two weeks without use, whereas an older battery could lose its charge within a week. A dead battery will prevent the vehicle from starting normally.
I think the specific time when a car develops problems from sitting idle for too long is quite subjective, but generally speaking, leaving it parked for over a month can cause trouble. I've noticed the battery slowly discharges because internal chemical reactions continue, and by the third or fourth week, the voltage drops too low to start the engine. Tires develop 'flat spots' from prolonged pressure, leading to noticeable vibrations when driving. Engine oil and transmission fluid also oxidize and degrade, potentially causing rust and blockages. In areas with high humidity, parts are more prone to corrosion. From my experience, try not to leave it parked for more than three weeks—starting the engine and driving for about ten minutes periodically can prevent many issues and keep the battery charged.
