How to Maintain a Car During Long-Term Parking?
4 Answers
Maintenance methods for long-term car parking are as follows: 1. Exterior maintenance: Thoroughly clean the entire car from top to bottom, front to back, inspect for any defects, and perform a waxing beauty treatment. 2. Engine maintenance: Clean the engine, check engine oil, brake fluid, and antifreeze levels—top up if insufficient, replace if expired. If water was used instead of antifreeze during summer, it must be replaced with antifreeze now. 3. Tire maintenance: Inspect tires for scratches, bulges, and remove debris from treads. Slightly increase tire pressure compared to summer levels. 4. Battery maintenance: Check if the battery casing is swollen or damaged, ensure sufficient battery fluid, and verify that electrode terminals are dry and clean. If green oxides are found on electrodes, rinse them off with boiling water. 5. Air conditioning maintenance: After a busy summer, promptly clean the AC radiator, replace the cabin air filter, and clean the condenser if possible.
If the car is going to be parked for a long time without moving, young people like me who enjoy road trips need to pay special attention because I’ve learned my lesson before. First, deal with the battery—disconnect the negative terminal or start the engine once a month and let it idle for 15 minutes to recharge, otherwise the battery might die. Don’t forget the tires either—inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure, like 35 PSI for my car, or if possible, use a car stand to lift the vehicle and avoid deformation. For fluids, change the engine oil and filter before parking, as old oil can degrade and corrode the engine. Clean the interior thoroughly, leaving no food crumbs to deter rodents; wash the exterior and cover it with a car cover to prevent dust and sun damage. A small tip: choose a dry, well-ventilated parking spot and open the windows occasionally to air it out and prevent musty smells. In short, don’t slack off—spending half an hour on these steps can save hundreds in repair costs.
As a seasoned long-haul driver with years of experience, I recommend performing a full set of maintenance before long-term parking. The top priority is checking fluids: replace the engine oil to prevent oxidation and corrosion, ensure coolant and brake fluid are topped up to prevent leaks. Adjust tire pressure to standard values to avoid deformation from prolonged pressure, and ideally use stands or bricks to lift the wheels. Battery management is crucial—start the engine monthly to recharge, or disconnect the negative terminal for peace of mind. After cleaning the body, cover it with a protective cover to minimize dust and UV damage. Choose a dry, shaded parking spot and move the car slightly every two weeks to ensure even wear. These small steps can protect the engine and body in the long run, extending the vehicle's lifespan.
After our family car sat idle for a few months, it developed a strange odor. Now I pay special attention to maintenance. Before parking, I thoroughly clean the interior, wipe all surfaces dry with a cloth, and place two dehumidifier bags to absorb moisture. After washing the exterior, I cover it with a car cover to protect against bird droppings and sun exposure. For the battery, I keep it simple by asking a neighbor to help start the engine for ten minutes every two months. Just keep the tires properly inflated—no need for anything too complicated. Ventilation is key, so I leave a gap in the garage door for airflow. If it's parked for too long, I drive it a short distance beforehand to keep the parts moving. These small actions save hassle and ensure safety.
