What to Do If a Car Sits Unused for a Long Time?
3 Answers
Here are the solutions for a car that sits unused for a long time: 1. When a car is not used for an extended period, restarting it poses a significant challenge. Most of the engine oil flows back to the bottom of the oil pan, leaving the upper parts severely lacking oil film protection. After prolonged parking, restarting the engine causes severe dry friction, which is when the most severe wear occurs. Therefore, special attention should be paid to the condition of the engine oil. 2. If the car is left unused for a long time, the battery may discharge to the point where it cannot start the car. Hence, if the car is parked for more than two months, it is advisable to disconnect the negative terminal of the battery (only the negative terminal; the positive terminal does not need to be touched). 3. To prevent localized tire deformation during prolonged parking, the car should be parked on a flat surface, and the tire pressure should be adjusted to around 2.8 BAR for both front and rear tires. Additionally, a thorough inspection of the chassis is essential, focusing on potential oil leaks in areas such as the CV joints, transmission, shock absorbers, and oil pan. If any leaks are found, they should be addressed before long-term parking. 4. Rust prevention for the car body is crucial, especially for any damaged paint surfaces. Even minor paint damage, if left untreated, can lead to rust that gradually expands and may eventually penetrate the metal. If rust spots are present, they should be covered with toothpaste or a touch-up paint pen to prevent further spreading. This is an important step to take before long-term parking.
Last time my car sat unused for three months, and when I came back the battery was dead and the tires were deformed. It was such a hassle to fix. Since then, I've developed a habit of starting it once a week: after the engine starts, let it idle for about twenty minutes to allow the alternator to charge the battery and lubricate the components; move the car to a different parking spot to avoid flat spots from prolonged pressure on the same tire area; keep the fuel tank half full or add fuel stabilizer to reduce moisture condensation and fuel line clogs. A car cover is essential to protect against dust and UV rays. Also, check the tire pressure, as it's more prone to issues in cold winter temperatures. These small actions are simple yet effective, saving me from expensive repairs later and keeping the car running smoothly whenever I need it.
As an experienced family car user, prolonged parking can lead to various hidden issues. Before storage, always replace old engine oil and filters as oil sedimentation can corrode the engine; clean both interior and exterior to prevent mold and rust; check battery charge and connect to a smart maintainer or start periodically; reduce tire pressure to 80% of the recommended value to prevent deformation and air leakage. Don’t overlook food residues inside attracting small animals—place rodent repellent bags in the engine bay. If parked in a garage, ensure ventilation and dryness to avoid moisture corrosion. Though these steps may seem tedious, they protect your car’s condition and ensure a smooth, trouble-free start next time.
