What to Do If a Car Sits Unused for a Long Time?

[Branden]

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.