What Problems Will Occur If a Car Is Left Unused for a Long Time?
3 Answers
If a car is left unused for a long time, the following problems may occur: 1. Battery damage: Basically, if the car is not driven for about two weeks, the battery will not be recharged and will remain in a discharging state. This will generate a significant amount of sulfides, making the entire battery difficult or even impossible to recharge. Therefore, the first component to fail is usually the car battery. 2. Tire damage and deformation: Tires have a certain degree of plasticity. As soft rubber, tires subjected to prolonged unidirectional force will naturally deform. Air leakage is the first sign, followed by deformation. 3. Brake rust: Generally, when a car is parked for an extended period, the handbrake is engaged. With the handbrake on, the brake pads and brake discs remain tightly pressed together. This causes water vapor to accumulate in the gaps, leading to rust. Therefore, if a car is left unused for a long time, the brakes may rust. If the car must be parked for an extended period, it is advisable not to engage the handbrake to ensure proper ventilation for the brake pads.
As a seasoned driver with over a decade of experience, I often encounter issues when leaving my car unused for extended periods. The most troublesome problem is battery drain or complete discharge, especially during winter when parked for over a month—resulting in no-start situations requiring roadside assistance. Tires left stationary too long may deform or lose all pressure, creating noisy and dangerous driving conditions. Engine oil and coolant can settle and deteriorate, causing hard starts and potential overheating damage. Last time my car sat idle for three months, I discovered rusted brakes upon startup with grinding noises when pressed, forcing immediate repairs. My advice to fellow car owners: Even if unused, start the engine every two weeks and drive 5-10 km to recharge the battery and lubricate mechanical components—this maintains optimal vehicle condition while saving money.
Our family car is mainly used for picking up the kids and shopping. Leaving the car unused for too long really affects our daily life. First, the battery drains and causes starting problems, which can delay important trips. Once, we were almost late picking up our child from school. The tires also deform, making the ride bumpy and unstable—a potential blowout could have serious consequences. I also worry about the engine oil thickening, which accelerates engine wear and leads to costly repairs. Additionally, mold might grow inside the car, or mice could chew through the wiring, making cleanup both dirty and time-consuming. Now, I’ve learned my lesson—I ask my husband to drive a short trip to the market every ten days. This keeps the car maintained while avoiding future hassles. Safety always comes first.
