What are the hazards of leaving a car unused for a long time?
2 Answers
The hazards of leaving a car unused for a long time: 1. Battery depletion - If the car is idle for more than six months, the battery will be completely drained, making it impossible to start the car; 2. Engine oil oxidation and deterioration - Since engine oil has a shelf life of one year inside the engine, it will inevitably become contaminated. Prolonged idleness accelerates the oxidation and deterioration of the oil, especially when moisture like water vapor enters, causing rapid emulsification of the oil; 3. Brake system corrosion - Long-term idleness of the brake system makes it prone to chemical reactions with water vapor and oxygen in the air, leading to corrosion and affecting braking performance; 4. Tire deformation and corrosion - Tires left unused for extended periods will inevitably be exposed to acidic and alkaline substances, corroding the tire walls. Additionally, the lack of movement causes prolonged deformation at the tire's contact point with the ground. The longer the car remains stationary, the harder it is for the deformed areas to recover, altering the weight distribution around the tire and resulting in uneven rolling radii and unbalanced tires; 5. Paint peeling - After prolonged parking, the car's surface will accumulate significant water vapor, which reacts chemically with materials like iron, causing the body to rust and the paint to peel off.
Last year, my car sat unused for three months, resulting in a completely dead battery—I couldn’t even open the doors. Calling roadside assistance cost me 300 yuan. The tires developed flat spots and vibrated badly when driving, almost requiring replacement. The engine oil thickened like syrup, leading to insufficient lubrication and internal rusting. The brake discs developed red rust, producing a screeching noise when starting. Mice even chewed through the wiring harness, requiring two weeks of repairs. The humid air caused mold in the AC ducts, producing foul odors when turned on. The car paint also faded and aged due to prolonged exposure. Now, I start the car at least once a week, letting it idle for ten minutes to preserve the battery.
