Will there be any problems if the car is not driven for over a month?
3 Answers
Yes, there will be problems. The issues that may arise from leaving a car unused for a month are as follows: 1. Fluid deterioration: There are many fluids in a car, the most common being engine oil. These fluids can deteriorate if not used. If the vehicle is parked for a long time, the engine oil will undergo severe oxidation and eventually deteriorate. 2. Brake failure: When parking the car, the handbrake is often engaged, keeping the handbrake cable in a tense state, which significantly shortens the lifespan of the brakes. If the car is not parked on a level surface, this will further accelerate the wear. 3. Component and rubber aging: Prolonged parking makes electronic components more prone to moisture damage, and rubber parts will age faster due to exposure to wind and rain. These conditions will greatly reduce the car's waterproofing and sound insulation capabilities. 4. Battery drain: The component most affected by long-term parking is the car battery. The battery gradually charges while driving, but if the car is left unused for an extended period, the battery will remain in a state of constant discharge without being recharged.
As an ordinary car owner, leaving a car parked for a month without driving it can indeed cause several issues. Last time my car sat for six weeks, the most obvious problem was the battery running out of power—there was no response at all when I tried to start it. This happens because electronic devices in the car, such as the anti-theft system and clock, continuously drain the battery, leading to gradual depletion. If the environment is humid or experiences extreme weather, wiring may leak electricity, accelerating the loss. Tires are another concern—prolonged stationary pressure imbalance can cause deformation, affecting driving balance and safety afterward. Fluids like engine oil and brake fluid can degrade over time, and lack of circulation may lead to rusting or seizing of metal components. My suggestion is, if you need to park the car for an extended period, at least start the engine once a week and let it run for 10 minutes to recharge the battery, or disconnect the negative terminal to conserve power. Choose a dry, temperature-stable location for parking, such as a garage rather than an open space. You can slightly increase tire pressure to prevent deformation. Of course, if you encounter difficulty starting the car, seek professional inspection as soon as possible.
I enjoy studying automotive knowledge in my spare time, and leaving a car unused for one or two months can pose hidden risks. Battery discharge is the most common issue, with a high self-discharge rate when idle—older vehicles might not last even a week before failing. Fuel in the lines can degrade and deposit impurities, clogging the system and causing starting difficulties. Brake components like calipers and discs are also prone to rust and sticking, affecting braking response. Additionally, electronic systems such as the ECU may suffer accelerated faults due to moisture or heat exposure. Personally, I once experienced noticeable difficulty starting after a two-month parking period. It's advisable to regularly check tire pressure, use a professional charger to maintain the battery, and keep the hood closed to prevent dust buildup. For long-term inactivity, it's best to take short monthly drives to lubricate components and keep them operational.
