How often should a car be started if it's not driven for a long time?
2 Answers
If a car is not driven for a long time, it should be started once a week to ensure the proper functioning of various fluids in the engine and the car battery. If the car is not started for an extended period, the engine oil will stop flowing, affecting the engine's normal operation after startup and potentially causing the car battery to lose charge. When a car is left unused for a long time, the following protective measures should be taken: 1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface to prevent tire wear due to uneven pressure and ensure fluids inside the car remain balanced for proper functioning; 2. Park the vehicle in a garage to protect the paint from damage; 3. Start the car once a week to keep it in good condition; 4. After starting the car, it is recommended to warm it up for about 10 minutes to allow all engine components to be fully lubricated for proper operation.
When I was younger, I often forgot about my parked car, which quickly drained the battery and even led to engine repairs. Now I’ve learned better—I usually start the engine every 7 to 10 days and let it run for 10 to 15 minutes. This not only charges the battery to avoid complete depletion but also circulates the engine oil, preventing sediment and rust. Additionally, tires can deform if left stationary for too long, and the suspension may also suffer damage. In winter, I’m even more cautious—cold weather weakens battery performance, so I shorten the interval to starting the car once a week. When I’m away on business or traveling, I always arrange for someone to periodically start the car to keep everything in working order, avoiding major repairs. In short, regularly running the car is the safest bet to prevent unexpected issues upon return.
