How often should a car be driven?
4 Answers
Start the car once a week and drive it every half month, covering a distance of 3-5 kilometers. The main issue with leaving a car parked for extended periods is that the battery may not charge sufficiently, leading to power loss and difficulty starting. Additionally, tires left in the same position for too long can develop uneven pressure points, causing deformation. It is recommended not to leave a car parked continuously for more than half a month. Before parking, clean both the exterior and interior of the car thoroughly. Applying wax or a protective coating can help prevent paint corrosion. If possible, store the car in a garage. If parking outdoors, at least cover the car with a car cover to protect it from sun, rain, and debris like fallen leaves that can damage the paint.
I believe it's best to drive a car at least once a week, for about 10 minutes to half an hour each time. Personally, I take my car for a spin every Sunday, usually to buy something or take a short highway trip. If you don't drive it for too long, the battery can easily die. Once when I was on vacation for two weeks, I came back to find my car completely dead, and I had to spend 300 yuan to replace the battery. Additionally, long-term parking can cause tire deformation, and brake discs may rust and seize. Taking the car out for a drive allows the engine to run, which recharges the battery and lubricates the components, preventing various hidden issues. If you're really busy, try to drive it at least once every 10 days for a short trip, or buy a battery maintainer to keep it charged. In short, driving regularly can save you repair costs and keep your car in good condition.
As someone who often works in an office, I recommend driving every 3 to 5 days. I usually take taxis to work, but I always drive on weekends for grocery shopping or visiting parks. This habit helped me avoid battery freezing last winter. If a car sits too long, fluids deteriorate, especially brake fluid and engine oil; tire pressure drops, making the next drive feel unstable. A short trip is enough to fully lubricate the engine and recharge the battery. If you can't drive frequently, ask a friend to start it occasionally or install a smart charger. Proper maintenance not only saves money but also reduces uncertainty on the road.
I used to struggle with this issue when I first bought my car. Now I understand - it's best to drive it at least once every 7 days for a minimum of 10 minutes. Driving less saves fuel costs, but leaving it unused for too long will drain the battery (replacement costs hundreds) and cause tires to deflate/wear faster. A weekly short trip warms up the engine for proper charging and rust prevention. Personally, I make sure to check tire pressure monthly for safety. When busy, I simply ask family members to start it up occasionally - an easy maintenance solution.
