How often should a parked car be started?

[MacKinsley]

Vehicle should be started every fifteen days if left parked. Negative effects of prolonged parking: Leaving a vehicle parked for too long can lead to battery drain, inability to start, tire deformation, rust formation, and oxidation/deterioration of fluids. Precautions: Each startup should last at least half an hour, followed by driving a safe distance after moving the vehicle. When parking long-term, keep the body clean and dry, park on elevated level ground, disconnect the battery's negative terminal, inflate tires to maximum pressure to ensure smooth restart when needed.

[ArabellaAnn]

I've seen many cars develop issues from sitting idle too long. My neighbor's car sat unused for two months and the battery drained completely, leaving it unable to start. Generally, I recommend not letting a vehicle sit idle for more than a week without starting it. It's best to take the car for a short drive – 15-20 minutes is sufficient. This helps recharge the battery to prevent drainage and lubricates engine components to avoid rust. Pay attention to the tires too, as prolonged parking without movement can cause deformation. Additionally, checking the freshness of fluids is advisable. If driving isn't convenient, at least start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes. Based on experience, problems are more likely to occur after two weeks of inactivity. Remember to handle this regularly to avoid trouble.

[DeclanFitz]

As someone who enjoys maintaining my own car, I believe it's essential to start it regularly if it's been parked for a long time. Starting it once a week is ideal. After starting, take it for a short drive, like going to the supermarket for groceries, which takes about 15 minutes. This helps prevent excessive battery discharge and reduces carbon buildup on the spark plugs during startup. Also, don't forget to check the brake fluid and coolant levels. Moving the car periodically can prevent flat spots on the tires and extend their lifespan. It's also a good idea to quickly inspect the connection points for any looseness. Prolonged inactivity can accelerate system aging and increase maintenance costs.

[JulietFitz]

As a beginner, I'm particularly afraid of car troubles. Experts advised not to leave the car parked for more than 10 days without starting it. I start my car weekly and let it run for 10 minutes in the garage. This protects the battery, as sudden power loss can be dangerous. Also, always check if lights and doors/windows are properly closed to prevent theft. Being cautious never hurts—safety comes first. Regular startups help stabilize electronic systems and reduce unexpected repair costs. Forming these simple habits isn't difficult.