Is it okay to service a car only once a year if it's not driven frequently?
4 Answers
It is acceptable to service a car only once a year if it is not driven frequently. Here are the potential hazards of infrequent car usage: Severe Battery Drain: Long periods of inactivity can lead to issues such as rusted brake discs, stiff transmission systems, and severe battery drain. Fluid Deterioration: Engine oil that remains idle for extended periods can deteriorate, forming deposits that cause engine carbon buildup and significantly reduce lubrication effectiveness. Additionally, some acidic substances may corrode engine components. Oil Film Degradation: When a vehicle is parked for long durations, the lubricating oil film on engine cylinders and piston surfaces can degrade due to exposure to oxygen and other corrosive acidic or alkaline elements in the air. This forms gummy deposits, causing the oil to lose its lubricating properties.
Not driving your car frequently and only servicing it once a year is actually quite risky. With over 20 years of driving experience, I've found that even when a car sits in the garage, fluids still gradually deteriorate. Engine oil oxidizes after just six months, reducing its lubricating properties, which can lead to internal rust and carbon buildup in the engine. Over time, this may cause starting difficulties or accelerated wear. The battery is also prone to draining and dying—left unused, it loses charge quickly, and when you try to start the car, it might fail completely. Tires left under pressure for long periods develop uneven wear and deformation, resulting in strong vibrations at high speeds and even compromising handling safety. I recommend taking the car out for a drive every six months to warm it up while checking the battery and fluids—don’t skimp on maintenance only to invite bigger problems. Use maintenance reminder apps to track service schedules for peace of mind and safety. Remember, a car is like a living thing—it needs regular movement to extend its lifespan and prevent minor issues from turning into major repairs.
As a frequent business traveler, my car sometimes sits idle for months at a time. Initially, I thought less driving meant less maintenance. However, one weekend when I started the car, I immediately heard abnormal engine noises. A check revealed that the thickened engine oil had clogged the pipes, nearly causing a major malfunction. Infrequent use with only annual maintenance poses too high a risk—brake fluid and coolant can absorb moisture and deteriorate, slowing brake response and increasing the chance of skidding in rain or snow. I've since developed a habit of starting the engine at least once every three months to idle for 20 minutes to recharge the battery, and performing simple self-checks on tire pressure and lights during seasonal changes. This maintenance routine keeps the car in excellent condition, ensuring smooth and worry-free driving. While saving money daily is good, don't overlook potential hazards. I recommend consulting a 4S dealership to create a personalized maintenance plan, such as changing the oil every six months—it's economical and hassle-free.
Last year, I bought a used car and drove it very little, thinking it would save trouble to service it only once a year. What happened? When spring came, the car wouldn't start, and after taking it in for repairs, I had to replace the battery and change the oil, costing nearly a thousand yuan. The mechanic said that infrequent use accelerates oil oxidation and causes severe engine carbon buildup. Now, I've learned some basics from the mechanic: engine oil has a shelf life of about six months, and lack of use makes it more prone to sediment buildup, affecting engine efficiency; a battery loses charge quickly when idle and might be depleted within three months. I've adjusted by asking a friend to help warm up and inspect the car every six months to keep it active. Don't make the same careless mistake I did—taking good care of your car is key to reliability.
