How Often Should You Start Your Car in Winter?
2 Answers
It is best to start the car once a week. The effects of not driving the car for a long time: 1. Battery discharge: Leaving the car idle for an extended period can cause the battery to discharge. A discharged battery may prevent the car from starting. 2. Aging: If the car remains stationary for too long, the tires bear weight on one side continuously, leading to flat spots. Tires with flat spots lose their regular round shape. Prolonged inactivity reduces tire lifespan and accelerates aging. 3. Rust: Extended periods of inactivity can prevent the engine and transmission from receiving adequate lubrication, potentially causing certain components to rust.
As a veteran driver with over 20 years of experience in northern regions, I know firsthand how cars are prone to problems in winter. Once, my car sat idle for five days when temperatures dropped to -10°C, completely draining the battery and requiring expensive repairs to get it started again. Since then, I've made it a habit to start the engine once a week, letting it run for 15 minutes even if I'm not driving. This not only charges the battery but also circulates the engine oil to prevent freezing, while running the heater to pre-warm the interior and avoid frozen doors or locks. The colder it gets, the more frequently you should do this – below freezing, it's best to start the car every four to five days. Don't underestimate these ten minutes of idling; they can significantly extend your car's lifespan and save on repair costs. Nowadays, I even do an extra preemptive start when cold weather is forecast.
