How to Maintain a Car That Is Not Used for a Long Time?
3 Answers
Maintenance methods for a car that is not used for a long time: 1. Start the vehicle regularly; 2. Take protective measures; 3. Clean the vehicle in advance; 4. Keep the battery fully charged. Hazards of not using a car for a long time: 1. Oil seals in various parts may deform, age, and be prone to damage and leakage; 2. The service life of friction parts is shortened; 3. Battery capacity decreases and its lifespan is shortened; 4. Tires may deform; 5. Electronic components are prone to malfunction; 6. A stationary vehicle may cause adverse changes to the braking system, steering system, and fuel supply system. Precautions for a car that is not used for a long time: 1. Try to park it in a garage; 2. Pay attention to the car battery; 3. Monitor tire pressure; 4. Check various fluids in the vehicle.
Oh, if my car is going to be parked for a long time without use, I think the first thing to do is protect the battery, otherwise it might not start when I come back. I would disconnect the negative terminal of the car battery or buy a maintenance charger to keep it fully charged. The tires also need attention—long-term parking can cause flat spots leading to deformation, so I would inflate each tire to the upper limit of the recommended pressure, roughly 10-20% more. Park on a flat surface, not on a slope. Interior cleaning is crucial—I wipe all surfaces with a damp cloth and place some dehumidifying bags on the seats to prevent moisture from causing mildew and bacteria growth. If the engine oil has been sitting for over a month, it’s best to replace it to avoid corrosion from old oil. Fill up the fuel tank and add a fuel stabilizer to protect the metal components. Cover the car with a breathable car cover to block dust and bird droppings, and park it in a garage or shaded area if possible. If conditions allow, start the engine every two weeks and let it run for about ten minutes to recharge and lubricate the system. With these simple preparations, the car will stay safe.
If the car is left unused for a long time, I usually perform a comprehensive check starting with the battery—disconnect it or charge it monthly to avoid battery failure. Inflate the tire pressure to the manufacturer's maximum allowed value to prevent flat spots, and ensure the car is parked on level ground. The engine oil must be replaced to remove acidic contaminants, and the fuel tank should be filled with a stabilizer to prevent rust. Inside, I clean the interior and place charcoal bags to absorb moisture, using sunshades to protect the dashboard from aging. Externally, cover the car with a car cover and park it in a sheltered area to minimize damage risks. Occasionally starting the car and driving it around lubricates all components, which is cost-effective and extends the car's lifespan.
