What should be paid attention to when a vehicle is parked for a long time?
3 Answers
When a vehicle is parked for a long time, the following should be noted: clean up 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: Clean up items inside the vehicle before parking: Remove food, beverages, packaging bags, and other items from the vehicle before parking 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, in the vehicle, as sunlight may focus on a single point inside the car, posing a fire risk. Choose a suitable parking location: If there is a garage, park the vehicle inside. If not, try to find a dry, ventilated, shaded, and rain-protected area to park, and consider using a car cover for additional protection. This helps protect leather, rubber, and the vehicle's surface, preventing rust on metal parts of the chassis due to moisture. Inspect the vehicle before use 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 signs of water or oil leaks; check if the lights are functioning properly, such as the brake signal lights at the rear; inspect the tires for deformities, cracks, bulges, or abnormal tire pressure to prevent accidents.
Last time I went on vacation for three to four months, my car almost wouldn't start when I came back—the battery was completely dead, and I had to get a jump start. The tires were flat with marks, and driving felt uneven. Luckily, following a friend's advice, I had inflated them slightly higher than usual, keeping the tire pressure at the normal upper limit. The fuel tank was half full to reduce condensation, and I covered it with a specialized car cover to protect against bird droppings and dust. The most troublesome issue was discovering that the engine oil had degraded slightly, emitting a strange odor. I later learned I should have changed it before the trip. My advice is to start the car regularly—at least every two weeks—and let it run for ten minutes to recharge the battery, which minimizes headaches when returning.
Long-term parking maintenance focuses on prevention. The battery is prone to discharge and die, so directly disconnecting the negative terminal saves trouble. Inflate tires fully to avoid deformation and damage from parking. Engine oil and coolant may oxidize and deposit, so it's best to replace them before parking. The braking system needs inspection to ensure the handbrake is securely engaged. Don't forget to lift the wiper blades to prevent rubber aging and sticking. With these small tasks done thoroughly, your vehicle can sit idle for six months with peace of mind.
