What to Do If a Car Is Parked for Half a Month Without Use?
2 Answers
If a car is parked for half a month without use, it is recommended to warm up the engine for 1 to 3 minutes after starting it. Not driving for half a month may lead to insufficient tire pressure. If the tire pressure is too low, it needs to be inflated immediately. If the car battery is old, leaving the car unused for half a month might cause the battery to drain. A dead battery will prevent the engine from starting. If the car is not used for an extended period, it is advisable to start the car every few days and drive a short distance. This can prevent flat spots on the tires and also lubricate the engine and transmission. If the car is left unused for a long time, the engine oil and transmission fluid will not circulate, which may cause rusting of some components in the engine and transmission.
As an experienced driver who frequently drives, I'll share some lessons learned from leaving a car parked for half a month without use. First, the battery is a major concern. Long periods of inactivity can easily drain it, so I make it a habit to either disconnect the negative terminal or use a battery maintainer to charge it periodically. Secondly, tires can deform, especially in the summer heat. I inflate them slightly above the recommended pressure, say by 10-15 PSI, to prevent flattening. As for engine oil, I change it before a long parking period to avoid degradation and clogging the pipelines. Additionally, don't forget to check the brakes and coolant to prevent malfunctions upon restarting. Finally, don't rush to hit the road immediately after starting. Let the car idle for a few minutes to warm up the systems, then drive slowly for a while. These practices can significantly extend the car's lifespan. I've tried this several times myself, and the car runs like new upon return, saving a lot on repair costs.
