What to Do If a Car Is Not Used for a Long Time?

[SanDakota]

If a car is not used for a long time, the following aspects should be noted: 1. Try to park it in a garage: If the car is parked outdoors for an extended period without use, it can cause damage to the paint surface, such as from fallen leaves, dust particles, rain, snow, and bird droppings. 2. Pay attention to the car battery: If the vehicle is left unused for a long time, the battery may lose charge. The car alarm system can drain the battery over time, leading to insufficient power to start the vehicle. It is advisable to start the car periodically for about 5 minutes each time. 3. Check the tire pressure: When the car is not used for a long time, it is important to inflate all four tires to the recommended pressure. This helps distribute the load evenly and prevents the tires from deforming under prolonged pressure. 4. Monitor the vehicle's fluids: The car's fluids, including engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and power steering fluid, have expiration dates. If the car is left unused for an extended period, these fluids may degrade in quality.

[VanJace]

My car sat unused for over half a year, and I didn't pay much attention at first. When I tried to start it again, the engine wouldn't turn over—turns out the battery was completely drained, and I had to spend money on a replacement. Since then, I've learned my lesson: when leaving the car unused for long periods, I either disconnect the battery or hook up a charger to maintain the charge, otherwise it degrades too quickly. Tires are another issue—they can deform if left sitting too long. I always use an air pump to inflate them to the proper pressure and even place wooden blocks underneath to reduce pressure points. The paint and interior also get dirty easily, so I bought a car cover or park it in a garage to avoid exposure to wind and sun. Every month, I start the engine for about ten minutes to keep it running, preventing the oil and brake fluid from settling and thickening. Don't forget to check the brakes and wipers—these parts can rust or seize up if left idle too long. Regular maintenance saves a lot on repair costs; otherwise, minor issues turn into major headaches.

[LaMiles]

Leaving a car unused for long periods can be quite troublesome. I once left mine parked for several months without driving it, and when I started it up again, the engine shook violently—turned out the fluids had settled. Here's my advice for pre-storage checks: replace the engine oil to prevent aging and corrosion, and fill up the fuel tank to minimize air exposure and avoid rust. Cover the car with a quality car cover or tarp to keep dust from damaging the interior. For the battery, connecting it to a smart charger is the most hassle-free way to maintain its health. Don’t overlook the tires—I top up the pressure occasionally or use a jack to lift the car off the ground. If possible, start the engine for a minute or two weekly to keep components lubricated. Store the car in a dry place like a garage or underground parking to prevent moisture and mold. Finally, perform a thorough brake and battery check before restarting to avoid unexpected issues. These small habits can significantly extend your car's lifespan.

[Kirk]

The key to long-term car storage lies in preventing component degradation. I prioritize the battery—either charge it in maintenance mode or disconnect the negative terminal to avoid power drainage and burnout. Tires need attention: inflate them properly or lift the car to prevent flat spots. The oil system is also vulnerable; I change to fresh oil and seal it well to avoid engine damage from sedimentation. Start the car for about ten minutes monthly to circulate coolant and transmission fluid, preventing clogs. For body protection, a simple car cover to shield from wind and rain suffices—don’t let birds nest on it. All steps focus on cost-saving, using household tools to get the job done.