How Often Should You Start a Car That's Not Driven for Long Periods?
3 Answers
If a car is not driven for an extended period, it's recommended to start it approximately every two weeks. Prolonged parking can make it difficult to start the engine. Even when a car is turned off and unused, the battery continues to discharge. Over time, the battery may become completely drained, and its lifespan will also be shortened. Maintenance tips for long-term car storage: 1. Clean the exterior and interior of the vehicle beforehand. Dirt left on the car's paint for too long can damage it. 2. Keep the battery fully charged and perform regular inspections and maintenance to prevent battery discharge.
I have been driving for several years and have experienced the embarrassing situation of the car not starting after being parked for too long. For example, last winter when I was on a business trip for three weeks, the battery was completely dead when I returned, and I had to call for roadside assistance to solve the problem. Since then, I make it a habit to start the car every week and let it run for about 15 minutes. This helps maintain sufficient battery charge, as lead-acid batteries slowly discharge when idle and can lose enough power to start the car within two to three weeks. Additionally, the engine oil needs to circulate to prevent rust and the drying out of oil films. Otherwise, prolonged inactivity can lead to internal component damage or even rust. Don’t forget about the tires—parking for too long can cause deformation at the contact points. Gently moving the car slightly after starting can distribute the pressure and prevent permanent damage. In seasons with high humidity, it’s especially important to shorten the intervals between starts, as rainy conditions in southern regions can accelerate corrosion. In short, sticking to a routine of starting the car every 7 to 14 days ensures safety and peace of mind, just like my current weekend routine.
As a young car enthusiast, I've learned quite a bit about maintenance. Leaving a car idle in the garage for two to three weeks can cause problems. Last month, I neglected it for too long, which drained the battery and caused strange noises during startup. Now, I make sure to start the car every seven days, letting it warm up for 12 to 15 minutes to charge the battery and lubricate the engine. This isn't just about stabilizing the battery voltage—engine oil can settle over time, affecting lubrication, so running the engine helps circulate it and prevent rust. Additionally, unused AC ducts can develop mold, so warming up the car helps dehumidify and ventilate them, keeping them clean. Uneven tire pressure can also damage the tread. I recommend not exceeding two weeks of inactivity—just idling the engine is enough, no need to drive it out. It's cost-effective, simple, and helps extend the vehicle's lifespan while reducing unexpected repairs.
