How often should a car be started if not driven for a long time?
4 Answers
If a car is parked and not driven for one to two months, it needs to be started. Here are some methods for maintaining the car battery: In-car electricity usage: To maintain the car battery, avoid listening to the radio loudly, charging mobile phones, or using air pumps when the engine is off. Doing so frequently can lead to battery depletion, and repeated depletion will significantly reduce the battery's lifespan. Long-distance highway driving: Regularly driving on highways not only helps remove carbon deposits from the vehicle but also fully charges the battery. Generally, driving on the highway for more than an hour can fully charge the battery, keeping it in optimal condition. Avoid prolonged parking: If the car is not used for an extended period, disconnect the battery or start the vehicle every two weeks and drive it for several dozen kilometers to ensure the battery remains functional.
As a seasoned driver with years of experience, I have some insights into starting idle vehicles. If a car isn't started for more than two weeks, the battery can easily drain, especially when parked outdoors exposed to sun and rain. I make it a habit to take a short drive every ten days or so, letting the engine run for at least 20 minutes. This not only charges the battery but also prevents engine wear caused by oil sedimentation. Additionally, tire deformation from prolonged pressure is quite common. My neighbor's car sat unused for a month, and when he returned, he found the tires had gone flat. So, I recommend everyone develop a routine of starting their car periodically—don’t skimp or be lazy, as repairs can be both troublesome and expensive. If you're away for too long, it's best to ask a friend to help start the car or install a smart charger for peace of mind.
As a detail-oriented car owner, I know leaving a car unused for too long is a bad idea. The core issue is battery lifespan—voltage drops after just one or two weeks, potentially leaving you unable to start the engine. Based on personal experience, I recommend starting the car at least every ten days. Don't just let it idle after starting; press the accelerator a few times to ensure stable current flow, keeping this process between 20 to 30 minutes. Environmental factors are crucial too: storing in a garage with low humidity might buy you a few extra days, but outdoor exposure to extreme heat or cold accelerates battery drain—you'll need to move the car within three days in such conditions. Remember to check tire pressure and fuel levels while you're at it, preventing mechanical issues. Extended inactivity also leads to dust buildup affecting air systems, so I turn on the AC during these startup sessions. Overall, this small time investment saves far more money than battery repairs would cost.
Simply put, the interval for starting an unused car is widely debated. Ordinary car owners can easily test it themselves: leaving it unused for over a week poses significant risks, as the battery may slowly discharge and die, or fuel lines may clog, affecting startup. Personally, I make it a habit to take my car for a spin every Sunday, even if it's just a short distance. This applies to both new and old models. If parked outdoors, start it more frequently since weather accelerates corrosion. Prevention is better than repair—developing good habits ensures both safety and cost-efficiency.
