How often should a sedan be started if left unused for a long time?
2 Answers
It is recommended to start a vehicle left unused for an extended period approximately every 15 days. Below are precautions for long-term vehicle parking: 1. Regular charging: The most common issue with long-term parked vehicles is the battery. Even when the vehicle is locked and most electrical systems are in sleep mode, certain components like the anti-theft system still require power, generating a small but continuous sleep current. Over time, this can drain the battery to a level too low to start the engine. 2. Regular engine starts: Periodically starting the engine is necessary to recharge the battery and prevent excessive discharge. For vehicles parked over 15 days, it's advisable to start the engine and let it run for at least half an hour to recharge the battery, thus avoiding starting issues. 3. Regular vehicle movement: Prolonged parking can cause the tires to bear weight at the same spot continuously, potentially leading to deformation. This may result in vibrations when driving later. Therefore, regularly moving the vehicle ensures more even weight distribution across the tires.
When a sedan is left unused for extended periods, I believe starting the engine every two weeks and letting it run for about ten minutes is the ideal routine. This ensures the battery doesn't drain completely, as prolonged inactivity causes gradual power loss, and a brief operation allows the alternator to recharge it. From my experience, without periodic starts, the battery might die completely within a month, and towing fees could end up costing more than regular maintenance. Additionally, engine oil inside can settle and degrade, so short operations help circulate it to prevent part rusting. Tire pressure should also be checked, as prolonged deflation can lead to deformation or even blowouts. If parked indoors in humid conditions, it's advisable to drive it outside briefly during startup to reduce mold risks. Don't slack off—just jot it down weekly as a reminder to follow through.
