What to Pay Attention to for Long-Term Parking
3 Answers
Precautions for long-term parking are as follows: Check various fluids: During long-term parking, vehicles may develop leaks. Check the ground for any fluid residue, then inspect whether engine oil, antifreeze, windshield washer fluid, brake fluid, etc., are sufficient and whether there are any signs of leakage on the surface. If any issues are found, repair them promptly. Check the battery: For vehicles with batteries that have been in use for a long time, there may be difficulty starting after long-term parking. You can use jump-start tools to start the vehicle. After starting a long-term parked vehicle, it is advisable to extend the idle time appropriately to ensure the battery has sufficient charge and that electrical appliances can function normally.
Long-term parking requires thorough preparation, and I'll discuss it from a mechanical maintenance perspective. Give the car a thorough cleaning, both inside and out, to prevent dirt buildup. Check the engine oil and coolant—replace them if necessary to avoid impurities corroding the engine. Fill the fuel tank to reduce moisture-induced rust. The battery is a major concern; I often disconnect the negative terminal or use a charger to maintain charge, preventing startup issues later. Inflate the tires to the maximum pressure—if parked for months, it's best to lift the chassis with stands to avoid deformation or flat spots. Choose a flat and secure parking spot, engage the handbrake or shift to 'P' mode, and cover the car with a dust cover to protect against dirt and bird droppings. Place moisture absorbers inside to prevent mold. I also ask a friend to periodically start the engine and let it run for 5–10 minutes to lubricate components and prevent brake disc rust. With these steps done, the car stays in top condition, saving a lot of hassle.
For long-term parking, my top concern is battery protection to prevent it from draining and becoming unusable. I use a smart charger connected to the battery for automatic maintenance, or simply disconnect the negative terminal to avoid short circuits. Tires also require attention—inflate them slightly above the recommended pressure to prevent deformation, or place wooden blocks under the frame to distribute the weight. After cleaning the interior thoroughly, I place moisture absorbers inside and cover the car with a dust-proof cover. Park in a safe, dry location like a garage or shaded area, and fill up the fuel tank to minimize moisture buildup. For modern cars, I use an app to monitor the battery status and receive alerts. Occasionally, I ask someone to start the engine for a few minutes to keep it lubricated. Avoid parking under trees to prevent bird droppings—these small tips ensure the car remains as reliable as new even after prolonged storage.
