Will a Sedan Get Damaged If Parked for One Year?
3 Answers
Sedan parked for one year will get damaged. The following are the symptoms that may occur after a car has been parked for one year: Tire Aging: There are many disadvantages to leaving a car unused for a long time. The first part to get damaged when parked continuously for a year is the car's tires. If the tires bear weight on a single point for such a long time, they will show signs of aging. Car Rusting: If left unused for a year, the battery will also get damaged, and rust may appear inside the engine. The body and chassis may also show signs of rust. Failure to Start: The battery is an important component of a car. It is responsible for supplying power to all electronic devices in the car and also for starting the engine. Once the engine is started, the alternator takes over to power all electronic devices and recharge the battery. If the battery is damaged, the engine will not be able to start.
Sigh, my car sat idle for a whole year, and now it's got quite a few problems. The battery is completely dead, can't hold any charge at all, had to spend money on a new one. The tires went flat from sitting too long without air, deformed with wrinkled edges during inspection, had to replace them. The engine oil thickened like glue, making it undrivable, needed a complete oil change. The worst part is the severely rusted and corroded brake discs, hearing strange noises when starting, mechanic said they need grinding. Plus, the dashboard accumulated dust, seats got damp and moldy, and small animals even nested inside. Bottom line: parking over six months requires caution—best to start it for 15 minutes regularly to keep parts moving, and find a dry garage with a car cover.
Leaving a car parked for an entire year will definitely cause damage, with the battery being the most vulnerable point. Slow power drainage can lead to complete battery failure. Insufficient tire pressure can cause deformation, affecting driving safety. Various fluids such as engine oil and brake fluid can oxidize and deteriorate, and the engine interior may accumulate water and rust. The brake system, exposed to air, can suffer from corrosion on the discs and pads, increasing braking risks. Electronic control units and wiring left without power for extended periods can develop potential faults. It is recommended to disconnect the battery's negative terminal before parking to reduce power loss; fill up the fuel tank or use a fuel stabilizer to prevent condensation. Also, check and inflate the tires to moderate pressure and find a flat area to park to avoid uneven pressure on the chassis. Having someone start the car and let it run for about ten minutes every two months can significantly help.
