Will There Be Any Problems If a Car Is Not Driven for Half a Year?
2 Answers
Certainly, there will be problems. Leaving aside other issues, the engine oil, gasoline, and battery will definitely deteriorate if left unused for half a year. Therefore, the minimum requirement is to drive the car at least once a month. Problems that may arise from not driving the vehicle: 1. Reduced battery lifespan: If the vehicle remains stationary for an extended period, the battery will be in a state of unidirectional discharge. A complete discharge can significantly shorten the battery's lifespan. Additionally, long-term self-discharge of the battery can lead to the formation of sulfides on the plate surfaces, affecting the battery's recharging efficiency and ultimately causing premature failure. 2. Deterioration of fluids: Various fluids in the car, such as engine oil, can oxidize over time if not used. Oxidized engine oil directly impacts lubrication effectiveness, increasing wear between parts. Moreover, acidic substances formed can corrode mechanical components, with the severity of deterioration increasing the longer the car remains idle. 3. Tire deformation: When a car is parked, the main stress point on the tires is the area in contact with the ground. The inability to distribute stress leads to concentrated weight on one spot, causing compression deformation in the contact area. This deformation is difficult to reverse, altering the weight distribution around the tire.
Last year, my car sat idle for a full six months, and it turned into a huge hassle. The battery completely died, requiring emergency assistance to resolve; the tires went flat and deformed, making the ride as bumpy as being on a boat. The engine also developed issues, producing strange noises upon startup—later, it was discovered the engine oil had dried up. During a brake system inspection, it was found the brake fluid had deteriorated; fortunately, no accidents occurred. Now I've learned my lesson: if a car is going to be unused for such a long time, it's advisable to at least start the engine every two weeks and let it run for about ten minutes to circulate fluids and prevent rust, check tire pressure to keep it normal, and even better, have a friend drive it occasionally for peace of mind. Don't forget to empty the fuel tank before storage to avoid sediment buildup or add a stabilizer. Neglecting it long-term not only poses high safety risks but also burns money on repairs.
