What are the impacts of leaving a car unused for a long time?
2 Answers
The impacts of leaving a car unused for a long time are as follows: 1. Battery damage: Prolonged parking can cause the car battery to drain. If the battery is drained, you can use methods like jump-starting to start the vehicle and recharge the battery through engine operation. However, if the battery remains unused for too long, it may become irreparably damaged, rendering jump-starting ineffective, and you will have to replace the battery. 2. Component rusting: If the car is parked for an extended period, the anti-corrosion paint on some external components may peel off. Additionally, some parts may not have anti-corrosion treatment, and minor scratches from driving can also lead to rusting. 3. Component aging and cracking: Cars have many rubber and plastic components, such as tires, wiper blades, and seals. Tires, in particular, can deform and age if pressure is concentrated in one spot for too long. Dust exposure can also cause seals and wiper blades to deteriorate. If the car is parked outdoors, sunlight and acid rain can significantly accelerate the aging of these components.
Last time when I returned from a three-month trip abroad, I found my car wouldn't start - turns out the battery was completely dead. The mechanic said batteries self-discharge when left unused long-term, and exceeding one month often leads to depletion and failure. My tires had also deformed, looking like flattened rice dumplings, making thumping noises when driving. More annoyingly, mice got into the engine bay and chewed up the wiring. Fluids degrade too - the engine oil separated like spoiled salad dressing, and brake fluid absorbing water lowers its boiling point dangerously. Now if I'm away over two weeks, I give my keys to neighbors to start the car for 20 minutes every 10 days, plus use a car cover for dust and pest protection.
