What Happens If a New Car Is Rarely Driven?
2 Answers
Here are the impacts of leaving a new car unused for a long time: Battery Damage: Leaving a new car parked for extended periods causes the battery to gradually discharge. When you need to use the car, it may fail to start. Prolonged battery depletion leads to internal chemical reactions, making the battery more prone to failure. Parts Prone to Rust: Without regular use, lubricants in various parts of the vehicle slowly drain away. Areas that require oil film protection lose lubrication, leading to rust and even mechanical parts seizing up, preventing normal operation. Rubber Component Issues: Rubber parts (tires, seals) on the car harden and deteriorate due to aging and weathering. Vehicle Starting Problems: Fuel sedimentation can prevent the car from starting. Some fluids, like brake fluid, are hygroscopic and may degrade, leading to a series of issues.
If I don't drive my newly purchased car often, it can indeed lead to various issues. As a car enthusiast, I've experienced this firsthand—last year when I was busy with work and left my car parked in the garage for a month without moving it, the battery was completely dead when I tried to start it, forcing me to call for emergency jump-start assistance. Additionally, the tires became deformed from constant pressure on the ground, causing severe vibrations while driving, and I ultimately had to replace them. Engine oil and coolant can degrade and separate if left stagnant for too long, leading to internal rust and poor lubrication in the engine; brake discs are also prone to rust, resulting in strange noises when braking. Even more annoying are the electronic systems in the car—for example, the remote key's battery drains quickly, or mold grows in the air conditioning system. Therefore, I recommend starting the car at least once a week and taking it for a 20-minute drive to warm up the engine and circulate the fluids. Regularly check the tire pressure and keep it slightly higher to avoid deformation. Don't let your new car sit idle—keeping it active will extend its lifespan, otherwise, repair costs could end up being much higher than fuel expenses.
