What should be paid attention to when a vehicle is parked for a long time?
2 Answers
When a vehicle is parked for a long time, the following should be noted: clean the items inside the vehicle before parking, choose a suitable parking location, protect the battery, protect the vehicle tires, properly store the vehicle keys, and conduct a comprehensive inspection before using the vehicle after long-term parking. Additional details are as follows: 1. Clean the items inside the vehicle before parking: Remove food, beverages, packaging bags, and other items to prevent mold; do not leave flammable or explosive items such as alcohol or lighters in the vehicle; avoid placing objects with convex lens effects, such as mineral water bottles, as they may focus sunlight to a single point in the vehicle under sunlight, posing a fire risk. 2. Choose a suitable parking location: If there is a garage, park inside. If not, try to find a dry, ventilated, shaded, and rain-protected area to park, or use a car cover for protection. This helps protect leather, rubber, and the vehicle's surface, preventing metal components of the chassis from rusting due to moisture. 3. Conduct a comprehensive inspection before using the vehicle after long-term parking: Check the engine compartment and the underside of the vehicle for small animals, such as rodents that may have chewed through wiring or pipes, and observe the ground beneath the vehicle for water or oil stains; check if the lights are functioning properly, such as the brake signal lights at the rear; inspect the tires for deformities, cracks, bulges, and ensure the tire pressure is normal to avoid accidents.
I travel frequently for work, and my car often sits idle for months at a time. The first few times I didn't pay attention, and the tires went flat, costing me a lot to replace them. Later, I learned my lesson—now I check the tire pressure before parking and inflate them to the standard level to prevent deformation and wear. The battery is also crucial; if left too long without use, it can die, making the car unable to start. I start the engine every two weeks and let it run for half an hour to recharge the battery. Don't leave the fuel tank empty—filling it up reduces moisture condensation and protects the fuel lines from rusting. Find a shady, dry parking spot to avoid direct sunlight, which can age the paint and interior. If the car is parked for over a month, it's best to have a friend check on it or start it periodically. I've also realized that a car is like a body—if left unused for too long, problems arise. Simple maintenance can save a lot on repair costs.
