How long should a car be idled if it hasn't been driven for an extended period?
1 Answers
It's best to start the car once a week to recharge the battery, and drive the car approximately every two weeks, covering a distance of 3-5 kilometers. This ensures the battery gets charged and shifts the pressure points on the tires when parked again. Keeping tires under constant pressure in one spot can lead to deformation, posing risks while driving. For cars parked for extended periods, check the following aspects: 1. Battery: The primary issue with long-term parking is the battery. While many modern cars enter a 'silent mode' for electrical systems when unused, lasting about two months, older circuits may deplete the battery in one to two weeks. Prolonged discharge can cause failures in power windows and air conditioning. 2. Engine Oil: When a car sits idle, oil drains back into the oil pan. Upon restarting, while lubrication quickly resumes, it also causes significant momentary wear. Polymer gaskets inside the engine can harden and deform from concentrated pressure during long inactivity, leading to oil leaks upon restart. 3. Gasoline: Stagnant gasoline is a serious concern. Over time, impurities settle, causing various issues. The solution is to either refill with fresh gasoline or clean the fuel system. 4. Wheel Rims: Long-term parking can also deform wheel rims, leading to driving vibrations, increased fuel consumption, and unstable handling due to concentrated pressure points.