Why won't the car start after being left unused for several months?
3 Answers
When a car hasn't been driven for several months and won't start, the reason is usually a dead battery. The solutions are: 1. Push-start method: Engage first gear and slowly release the clutch to use the wheel's rotation to turn the engine flywheel; 2. Jumper cable method: Connect cables between the dead car and a rescue vehicle; 3. Tow-start method: Use an appropriate-length tow rope to securely connect the dead car and rescue vehicle. Battery maintenance methods include: 1. Avoid parking the car in open parking lots for extended periods to prevent battery freezing damage; 2. Since car engines are harder to start in winter, each starting attempt shouldn't exceed 5 seconds, with at least 15 seconds between attempts.
I've been driving for over 20 years, and nothing annoys me more than leaving a car parked for months without starting it. It's common for the engine not to start, mainly due to battery issues—self-discharge drains the battery, making the car unable to start. Other problems include fuel degradation clogging the pipelines, thickened engine carbon deposits, and electronic control units going into sleep mode, which can also cause trouble. Last year, I left my car in the garage for six months without moving it, and when I tried to start it, there was no response at all. I had to call for roadside assistance, which cost me several hundred dollars. Now I've learned my lesson—I take the car for a spin every month or use a smart charger to maintain the battery's lifespan. If I really need to park it long-term, I disconnect the negative terminal of the battery to avoid trouble. The key is prevention—don't wait until something breaks to regret it, as engine maintenance costs aren't cheap.
After reviewing numerous materials, there are only a few common reasons why a car has difficulty starting after being parked for several months. The main culprit is the self-discharge of the battery leading to a complete loss of power, especially as the battery ages and loses charge more easily. Oxidized and deteriorated fuel can clog the fuel injectors, affecting ignition. Electronic systems, such as the ECU, may enter sleep mode, and unstable connections can cause short circuits. I recommend using a battery maintainer or simply starting the engine for a few minutes each week. Cost-wise, a smart charger costs less than two hundred yuan, saving you the expense of jump-starting and repairs. Also, don’t overlook environmental factors, such as a damp garage causing connector corrosion and accelerating the problem.
