Will There Be Any Problems If I Drive My Car Only Once a Month?

[McAmara]

Driving your car once a month will not cause any problems. Here is the relevant information: 1. Timely Charging The car battery can be charged in time. During the period when the car is idle, the battery has a slight dormant discharge phenomenon. If the battery is not charged for two or three months, it may leak or lose power, making it impossible to start. However, using the car once or twice a week can replenish the battery in time and keep it in normal condition. Therefore, there is no impact on the battery. 2. Engine Protection The engine can be effectively protected. Using the car once or twice a week allows the engine oil to provide effective anti-corrosion protection for engine components. If the car is left unused for too long, it may lead to corrosion of engine parts, affecting the engine's lifespan. The chassis transmission system can be effectively lubricated and protected. Using the car once or twice a week ensures that the moving parts of the chassis, such as bearings, are effectively lubricated and protected, preventing rust.

[DelLaura]

I used to own an old Santana, which I only drove once a month. One time when I was in a hurry to go out, it wouldn't start—the battery was completely dead, and I had to call for roadside assistance to solve the problem. Later, I asked a friend and learned that if a car sits idle for too long, the battery will gradually discharge, especially in winter when it's more prone to losing charge. The tires are also likely to deform; staying in the same position for too long causes uneven pressure on the tread, leading to a bumpy ride. The engine oil can oxidize and deteriorate, reducing its lubricating effect and causing significant wear on the engine. Now I've gotten smarter: even if I don't drive it, I start the engine every two weeks and let it idle for about ten minutes, or take a short trip of a few kilometers to recharge the battery. If I'm really busy, I consider buying a car battery charger to keep it connected to a power source and maintain the charge. I also recommend checking tire pressure and fluid colors regularly—these steps can prevent the car from breaking down from sitting too long.

[MacVivienne]

As a seasoned driver, I've seen many friends' cars develop issues from being driven only once or twice a month. The most common problems are rapid battery aging—when the car isn't running, the battery self-discharges and may be completely drained in a few months; excessive carbon buildup in the fuel system, where gasoline evaporation residues clog the fuel injectors, affecting ignition; and brake system corrosion, where rust on disc brakes can seize them up, posing serious risks. Here's a little trick of mine: when parking the car in the garage, take it out for a 30-minute drive each month—don’t just idle it. This helps lubricate the engine and recharge the battery. In the long run, it lowers maintenance costs. Also, pay attention to the tires—prolonged parking can lead to slow leaks or deformation, so keep a tire pressure gauge handy for regular checks. These small habits can significantly extend your car's lifespan and save you a lot of hassle.

[DelJuniper]

Driving a car only once a month can indeed cause issues. The battery is most prone to draining and requires regular charging or starting; tires left unused for long periods may deform or lose roundness, increasing driving risks; engine oil oxidizes over time, reducing lubrication and making startup difficult. I recommend starting the engine for at least 10 minutes each month and checking that tire pressure remains at standard levels. If unable to drive, disconnect the battery's negative terminal or connect a maintenance device. These simple steps can prevent major problems.