How Long Can a Vehicle Be Parked Without Being Driven?

[Lilah]

Vehicles should not be parked for more than 20 days. Precautions for long-term parking include: 1. Inflate tires to standard pressure before parking; 2. Store a small amount of gasoline in the fuel tank; 3. Disconnect the battery negative terminal; 4. Release the handbrake and use wheel chocks to block the tires; 5. Change engine oil promptly. Prolonged parking may lead to battery drain, starting failure, tire deformation, vehicle corrosion, and fluid oxidation. Each startup should last over 30 minutes, followed by driving a safe distance after moving the vehicle. Choose level ground with surveillance coverage for long-term parking, avoiding garbage piles or grassy areas. Keep wheels straight when parking to prevent stress fatigue on steering-related rubber components.

[Gideon]

Having driven for over a decade, from my personal experience, I strongly advise against leaving a vehicle parked for too long. If it sits unused for more than three weeks, serious problems can arise. The battery will gradually lose charge, making it difficult to start the car next time you use it, which is particularly troublesome. Tires left stationary for extended periods can lose pressure and deform, potentially developing flat spots. Engine oil that doesn't circulate may lead to carbon buildup or rust. I recommend not letting your car sit idle for more than two weeks. If unavoidable, ask a friend or neighbor to start the car for about 10 minutes each week and take it for a short drive around the neighborhood. This helps warm up the engine, recharge the battery, and rotate the tires to prevent deformation. Additionally, choose a good parking spot—avoid prolonged exposure to direct sunlight, and consider using a car cover to protect against dust and theft. In summary, regular maintenance is key to keeping your vehicle safe and performing well.

[SanJulia]

As someone who has long been involved in vehicle maintenance, I've noticed that leaving a car parked for too long can be quite damaging. If a car remains unused for over a month, it's highly likely to develop issues. The battery may drain completely, preventing the car from starting, and its lifespan could also be shortened. The engine oil may settle and dry out, leading to insufficient lubrication and increased wear. Tires, under constant pressure from the vehicle's weight, can deform or suffer sidewall damage over time. I recommend not leaving a car parked for more than three weeks to stay on the safe side. When the car isn't used frequently, it's best to start the engine for 5 to 10 minutes weekly to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. Alternatively, you can disconnect the battery terminals to prevent power leakage. Additionally, inflating the tires to the recommended pressure and using support stands to lift the car can reduce the risk of deformation. Remember to park in a shaded area to avoid prolonged exposure to sunlight, which helps protect the paint and internal components. Regularly performing these small actions can save a significant amount on repair costs.

[ArthurLynn]

When I first bought a car, I knew nothing about it. Once, I parked it for three weeks during a business trip, and it wouldn't start when I returned. The mechanic told me the battery had drained from sitting too long. Even the tires developed some issues from staying stationary. Since then, I've learned my lesson: never leave a car parked for more than two weeks. It's best to start the engine and take it for a short drive every week. A battery will slowly die if unused for long periods, and tires stay in good shape only if they're not left to deform. Now, I've made it a habit to drive around the market in my free time, ensuring it doesn't sit idle for too long. With these simple maintenance practices, the car runs smoothly on the road all the time.