How Often Should You Start Your Car?
1 Answers
It is recommended to start your car at least once every 15 days if left unused. Prolonged inactivity can accelerate the aging of certain components and tires. For older batteries, extended periods without use may lead to battery drain, thereby reducing its lifespan. Reasons for periodically starting your car include: When a car remains idle for long periods, most of the lubricant adhering to components requiring lubrication will flow back to the oil pan due to gravity, diminishing lubrication in moving parts. Metal surfaces, without the protection of an oil film, are prone to react with oxygen to form an oxide layer, increasing friction and making startup difficult. Batteries that do not receive regular charging will experience accelerated sulfation of the plates, increasing internal resistance and shortening battery life. Due to self-discharge, the battery's terminal voltage may drop below 85%, rendering it irreparable. Benefits of regular starting include: charging the battery to prevent drain; slowing down aging; and circulating fluids. Precautions during idling: Ensure the engine reaches normal operating temperature and runs for a while. Typically, idling for about ten minutes suffices in moderate weather, with shorter durations needed in summer. In enclosed garages, be cautious of carbon monoxide poisoning during idling.
