How Often Should a New Car Be Started If Not Driven?
4 Answers
A new car generally needs to be started once a week to ensure the proper functioning of various fluids in the engine and the car battery. If a car is left unused for an extended period, it can negatively impact various components and performance. 1. Check if the battery is depleted A car battery discharges automatically, and if the vehicle remains idle for a long time, the battery may lose charge. Additionally, some electrical components in the car continue to consume battery power even when the vehicle is off, leading to battery depletion. Before driving, always check the battery charge to avoid being unable to start the car due to a dead battery. Tip: If the car is not driven for an extended period, it's best to start it once a week to recharge the battery. 2. Check if the tires are underinflated or if the rims are deformed After prolonged parking, inspect the tires for any air leaks before driving again. If the tire pressure is low, inflate them promptly. Additionally, prolonged parking can cause deformation in the tires and rims on the side bearing concentrated weight, leading to body vibrations, tire blowouts, or other issues while driving. Therefore, always check the tires and rims before driving. 3. Inspect the fuel tank level Whether restarting the car after prolonged parking or during daily use, always check the fuel tank level before driving to avoid running out of fuel mid-journey. Additionally, drivers should inspect all vehicle fluids, including engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant, as they have a 'shelf life.' Expired fluids may pose safety risks.
After driving for so many years, I insist that if a new car isn’t used frequently, the engine must be started at least once a week. Letting it run for about ten minutes helps recharge the battery, preventing a dead battery that could leave you stranded. Leaving a car parked for too long can cause the tires to flatten and deform, affecting driving comfort and safety. Parking in a garage or under cover is even better, reducing the risk of tire aging and body rust. Don’t forget that engine oil needs circulation—otherwise, it can thicken and damage components. A friend of mine left his car unused for a month without starting it, and the battery died, costing over 800 yuan to replace. Regularly starting the car is simple and worry-free, ensuring it’s always ready to go—don’t slack off!
As an office worker, my car often sits idle in the residential area for a month without moving, and I've learned my lesson the hard way. Now I've become wiser by starting the engine at least once every two weeks for a few minutes to recharge the battery. Batteries naturally discharge over time, and leaving them untouched for a month could result in a complete power loss. I always park on level ground to prevent tire deformation and save on repair costs. Modern cars come with smart battery systems, but don't rely on them too much; when starting the car, turn on the air conditioning or radio to keep the electrical circuits active. Weather plays a big role—hot weather accelerates battery aging, while cold weather makes it harder to start the engine. Developing these habits not only avoids trouble but also extends the lifespan of your beloved car.
As a car owner, leaving a new car unused for extended periods can lead to battery depletion. It's recommended to start the engine for ten minutes weekly to recharge. Prolonged parking may cause flat spots on tires, so tire pressure should be checked. Fluids degrade when stagnant, so starting the engine helps circulate them. This practice saves costs and prevents unexpected repairs.
