Is It a Problem If a Car Is Not Driven for 15 Days?

[Pamela]

Whether it is a problem if a car is not driven for 15 days depends on the condition of the vehicle. If the vehicle is in poor condition, leaving it unused for 15 days may lead to a dead battery, making it impossible to start the engine. Below is relevant information about car maintenance: Frequent Use: Cars are mechanical products, and since most of their materials are metallic, they need to be used regularly to maintain good condition. Generally, a car should not be parked for too long; keeping it within a week is ideal. Prolonged inactivity can lead to various performance issues. Regular Maintenance: Car maintenance includes inspecting various components, the exterior, tires, etc. It is essential to perform maintenance on schedule when the time comes, as this can extend the vehicle's lifespan.

[CassidyLynn]

I used to have extensive driving experience and believe that leaving a car unused for fifteen days is generally not a big issue, but there are a few minor concerns to keep in mind. The most common problem is the battery, especially in older cars or during winter, as it may gradually discharge and become depleted, making it difficult to start the engine. If the tire pressure is insufficient, prolonged parking can lead to flat spots, causing vibrations or accelerated wear when driving next time. Regarding fluids, modern engine oil won’t deteriorate in the short term, but if the oil was already old before parking, sedimentation may occur. I recommend inflating the tires to the standard pressure and fully charging the battery or disconnecting the negative terminal before parking. Parking in a garage is better to avoid dust and rainwater accumulation. Overall, fifteen days isn’t very long—the engine won’t rust, and risks like rodent damage are minimal, so don’t worry too much. However, it’s best to start the engine and let it run for about ten minutes to warm up.

[VanMalachi]

For my daily car, if it hasn't been driven for two weeks, it's generally safe but the battery often fails. For example, after returning from a business trip, the battery might be dead and unable to start the car. Nowadays, most car batteries don't last more than a month, and temperature changes can accelerate discharge. If the tire pressure is low, the car may feel unstable, but you can inflate them yourself. The engine oil is fine unless it's overdue for a change. Parking location is important—shady, sheltered, and protected from direct sunlight. A simple solution is to start the engine once a week and let it run for five to ten minutes to recharge the battery. For electric vehicles, the battery is more sensitive, so you need to monitor its charging status. Overall, fifteen days without use is fine as long as you pay attention to these small details.

[LeJude]

From my understanding, parking a car for half a month generally has minimal impact, with the focus on prevention and post-storage checks. The battery is prone to losing charge, so using a charger or briefly starting the engine to maintain it is recommended. Ensure tires are properly inflated to prevent deformation. Upon first start after parking, listen for smooth engine sounds. Fluids should be fine in the short term. Avoid parking in damp areas. The engine should remain in good condition within 15 days, but a quick check of the pressure gauge is advisable for confirmation.