Will there be any problem if the car is left unused for a week?
2 Answers
Leaving a car unused for a week generally has no significant impact on the vehicle. However, for electric vehicles, if the battery hasn't been replaced for a long time, leaving it unused for a week may cause the battery to drain, making it impossible to start the engine. Issues to pay attention to when leaving a car unused for a week: 1. Tire pressure: First, check the tire pressure of the car. If the pressure is too low, it should be replenished. If the tire pressure is too low, during high-speed driving, the deflated tire may deform in a wavy pattern, and the friction between rubber molecules generating heat can lead to a tire blowout, increasing the risk of a rollover. 2. Check the engine lubrication system: A decrease in lubricating oil can lead to poor engine lubrication, thereby damaging engine components such as gears. 3. Parking location: The parking location of the vehicle is crucial. If conditions don't permit, try to find a cool, ventilated place to park, preferably not under trees or near buildings. During windy or rainy weather, branches, leaves, or falling objects from above can land on the car body and cause damage.
As someone with twenty years of driving experience, I can tell you that leaving a car unused for a week can indeed cause minor issues, but it's not a major problem. The most common issue is with the battery, as it gradually discharges after parking, especially in older cars or cold weather, potentially making it unable to start after a week and requiring a jump start. If the tires are parked on hard ground with insufficient pressure, they may develop sidewall deformations, affecting future driving feel. Brake discs can rust on the surface in humid environments, causing squeaking when driving again, but they'll smooth out after a few kilometers. Old or water-contaminated fuel in the tank may degrade and clog the injectors, so it's advisable to fill up before parking. Small animals like mice may seek warmth in the engine bay and chew wires, so check the corners. For safety, inspect the battery and tire pressure before parking, and after a week, start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes to recover. If you don't drive often, take it for a ten-kilometer spin each month to keep it in good condition.
