How Long Should You Idle the Engine When Not Driving for an Extended Period?
2 Answers
If a vehicle is not driven frequently, it requires an extended warm-up period before driving, approximately 10 minutes. It is recommended that for vehicles parked for long periods, the engine should be started once a week or driven once to recharge the battery, ensure even tire wear, and allow the engine oil to properly coat the internal components of the engine. This is crucial for vehicle maintenance. Below is relevant information: 1. Impact of Long-Term Inactivity: The biggest issue with idling the engine without driving is the consumption of gasoline and the buildup of carbon deposits inside the engine. The most noticeable area is the exhaust pipe tailpipe, where carbon deposits accumulate. Therefore, it is not advisable to "warm up" the car by idling. 2. Battery Self-Protection: If a vehicle remains unused for a long time, the battery enters a self-protection mode and continuously discharges. Typically, the battery will fully discharge in about three months. Moreover, when the battery discharges to around half capacity, the vehicle may fail to start properly. Hence, if the vehicle is not in use, it should not remain parked for more than two months.
I've been maintaining my car for over ten years and know that leaving a car unused for long periods can cause damage. It's generally recommended to start the engine and let it idle for 10 to 15 minutes. This allows the engine to run and the oil to circulate, preventing internal parts from rusting or seizing. More importantly, the battery can get a quick charge to avoid complete discharge and failure. I once left my car untouched for over a month, and the battery died completely—replacing it was both troublesome and expensive. Now, I make it a routine to start the car once a week. Additionally, while starting the car, I take the opportunity to check for any unusual sounds or smells to ensure everything is in order. When the weather is extremely cold or hot, I add an extra 5 minutes to let the system stabilize further. Overall, short idling sessions save both hassle and money, keeping the car ready for use at any time.
