What are the effects of a car not being driven for a long time?
3 Answers
Effects of a car not being driven for a long time include: 1. Gradual depletion of the battery's charge; 2. Engine oil may coagulate and deteriorate, increasing wear on the engine and transmission when driving; 3. Tire pressure will gradually decrease. Maintenance methods for a car not being driven for a long time are: 1. Start the vehicle periodically to prevent engine issues; 2. Clean the exterior and interior of the vehicle in advance; 3. Cover the vehicle with a car cover and park it in a garage or on a flat surface away from direct sunlight to prevent paint damage or fluid leakage; 4. Regularly inspect and maintain the car battery to prevent power loss.
The impact of leaving a car unused for a long time is quite noticeable. Initially, I didn’t pay much attention, but after leaving it parked for two months, I found it wouldn’t start—the battery was completely dead. When the tires deformed, the entire car shook violently while driving, making it very unstable. Brake disc rust is a major issue, especially in rainy weather, as it increases braking distance and raises the risk of accidents. Deteriorated fluids, like thickened engine oil, reduce lubrication effectiveness and accelerate engine wear. The paint exposed outdoors is prone to fading and rusting. I also noticed electronic system failures, such as malfunctioning alarms or key fob sensors, which take time to repair. Starting the car weekly and driving it for a few minutes to warm up the engine and recharge the battery is crucial for extending its lifespan and ensuring driving safety. Preventing these issues can save significant repair costs and reduce the risk of breakdowns on the road.
My old car was parked for half a year once, and then a bunch of troubles followed. The battery was completely dead and had to be replaced, costing me 400 bucks. The tires were flattened in fixed positions, making the car wobble dangerously when driven, and I had to replace them prematurely, which was a big loss. The engine oil settled and formed sludge, making the engine feel sluggish and unpleasant to drive. The brake system rusted and seized, resulting in weak braking power and dangerous skidding during emergency stops. The fuel in the tank evaporated and deteriorated, corroding the interior and contaminating the system. Dust buildup affected the air filter and engine intake efficiency. Later, I learned my lesson—now I start the car every two or three weeks and let it run for ten minutes, or ask a neighbor to drive it a short distance to maintain mechanical lubrication and prevent rust issues. A little regular maintenance can save me from major repairs.
