What Are the Consequences of Not Driving a Car for a Year?

[DelSophie]

It can cause significant damage to the vehicle. Below are some of the hazards of leaving a car parked for too long: 1. Fluid degradation and failure: Engine oil deteriorates after about a year, while coolant and brake fluid degrade after 2-3 years, losing their effectiveness. 2. Premature battery failure: For lead-acid batteries, prolonged inactivity leads to self-discharge, which can reduce capacity by more than 1% per day. Chronic undercharging can cause sulfation on the plates, leading to early failure. 3. Irreversible tire deformation: Due to prolonged pressure on the lower part of the tire, the shoulder structure remains folded, increasing the risk of bulging or even blowouts. 4. Paint damage: For vehicles parked outdoors for extended periods, rain, dust, and other airborne debris can damage the paint, causing loss of gloss and accelerating oxidation and aging.