How often should you start a car that is parked and not driven?
2 Answers
If a car is parked and not driven for half a month, it should be started once. When a car is left unused for too long, it may have difficulty starting. Even when a car is turned off for an extended period, the battery still discharges. Over time, the battery can become completely drained, and its lifespan may also shorten. Components like tires, which are made of rubber, are prone to damage. If a car is left parked for too long without being driven, the tires may develop cracks. Therefore, leaving a car unused for extended periods can indeed lead to certain issues.
When my car is parked and not in use, I start it up every two weeks or so, letting the engine run for 10 to 15 minutes each time. I learned my lesson before when I didn't start it for a month while on a business trip—the battery was completely dead, and I had to call a tow truck and replace the battery, which was both troublesome and costly. Now, I’ve developed this habit because starting the car not only charges the battery but also keeps the oil circulating, preventing internal engine parts from rusting or seizing. For older cars or during winter, the starting frequency should be even higher, as temperature fluctuations can easily affect battery life. At the same time, I take the opportunity to check the tire pressure to prevent deformation from prolonged parking. In short, regular starting saves hassle—don’t wait until the car has problems to regret it.
