What should be paid attention to when a car is not used for a long time?

[LeStephen]

What should be paid attention to when a car is not used for a long time: 1. Clean and maintain the car before parking; 2. Park the car in a garage, or try to park it in a dry and cool place; 3. Regularly check the tire pressure, and inflate in time when the tire pressure is insufficient, pay attention to the aging of the tires; 4. Before parking the vehicle, carefully check the items in the car, do not leave food, drinks, packaging bags and other food garbage. The effects of not using the car for a long time are: 1. Premature failure and aging of oil seals, oil leakage of the vehicle; 2. Shorten the battery life; 3. The contact part of the tire is compressed and deformed; 4. Failure of electronic components; 5. Oil oxidation corrodes machine parts; 6. Aging of the brake system.

[AngeloAnn]

As someone who has driven for many years, I believe extra caution is needed when leaving a car unused for extended periods. From my experience, the battery is most prone to issues as it gradually self-discharges until completely drained, potentially causing permanent damage. I recommend either disconnecting the negative terminal cable or purchasing a small smart charger to maintain voltage. Tires shouldn't be neglected either - prolonged parking can cause deformation, so it's best to inflate them slightly above the recommended pressure or periodically move the car slightly to shift their position. Engine fluids should be checked as they degrade over time; replacing them beforehand can prevent lubrication problems. Additionally, moisture accumulates inside the cabin, so placing a desiccant pack is helpful. The electronic control systems also require attention - for example, the anti-theft system consumes power, so avoid frequent locking. For safety, I park my car on level ground in a well-ventilated area and start the engine every two weeks for about ten minutes to keep all components active. This practice saves considerable trouble when the car is next used.

[MacMaximus]

From a cost-saving perspective, what I fear most when my car sits idle is facing a hefty repair bill. Last time, after leaving it parked for a month, the battery died and replacing it cost a fortune. Now I've learned my lesson—I start the engine every two weeks and let it run for a few minutes to recharge. Also, tires can deform or crack under prolonged pressure, and replacing them is expensive, so maintaining proper inflation can prevent this. Old fluids can corrode internal components; check the engine oil color and change it early if it's too dark. Park in a cool, dry spot to avoid sun exposure accelerating aging or rain causing rust. Slightly opening the hood helps prevent moisture buildup. These small habits have saved me a lot on potential repair costs.

[CharlotteFitz]

As a prevention-focused individual, I'm concerned about the potential risks of long-term vehicle parking. The key is to avoid corrosion and leaks: ensure the battery is fully charged or disconnected, and regularly check tire pressure and wheel rotation. Fluids, including brake fluid and engine oil, may deteriorate, leading to system failures or environmental contamination. I recommend using a car cover to protect against dust and moisture, and starting the engine every two weeks for lubrication. Choose a stable parking surface, engage the handbrake firmly but release it occasionally to prevent seizing. Small steps can protect the car from damage.