How to Handle a Car Not Being Driven for Half a Year?
2 Answers
If the car is not driven for half a year, the following measures can be taken: 1. If the car is not driven for half a year, warm up the engine for a few minutes regularly, two to three times a month. 2. If the car is not driven for more than half a year, drain the gasoline and disconnect the battery cables. 3. Use a jack to lift all four wheels off the ground to protect the tires. 4. Apply lubricating oil to the door hinges and seals. 5. Wash and wax the car—after drying—cover it with a car cover to prevent dust. It is best to park it in a garage and place some rodent repellent devices on the ground. Below is some relevant knowledge about vehicle maintenance: The engine is fixed to the frame by mounts, which are made of rubber. Over time, exposure to wind and sun will inevitably cause them to age. As components that secure the engine, once the mounts age, they will inevitably lead to loose engine fixation and subsequent vibrations. Therefore, if the car is older and the engine vibrates noticeably but the power output hasn’t changed much, it is recommended to inspect the engine mounts carefully.
I had to leave my car unattended for six months during a business trip, which could cause major issues if not handled properly. Here's what I did in advance: First, I disconnected the negative terminal of the battery to prevent it from draining completely. Then, I asked a trusted friend to start the engine and let it run for about 10 minutes every two weeks to keep the oil circulating. I inflated the tires to 20% higher than the normal pressure to avoid flat spots. The car was parked in a covered underground garage to protect it from direct sunlight and rain corrosion. I filled up the fuel tank and added some fuel stabilizer to prevent moisture buildup. Upon returning, the first thing I did was change the oil, check the tires and brakes, and clean the interior to remove dust and prevent pests. This simple and cost-effective method worked well, and the car started smoothly after six months.
