With more people limiting social gatherings and working from home many cars are being driven less often. Industry leaders recommend that you continue routine maintenance and start your automobile every 7-10 days assist with preventing long-term issues.
Similar to how people need to stay active during this period of social distancing, your vehicle also need activity to stay in optimal shape. When your automobile sits idle the battery could die, tires can develop flat spots and the engine oil can begin to deteriorate. To mitigate your risk you should start your car at least once every 7-10 days and let it run for 5 minutes or more. If you park your car in a garage, be sure to pull it outside or make sure the door is open with plenty of ventilation prior to starting it. In addition, monitor the following areas of your vehicle closely :
- Oil – When a automobile sits idle, the oil deteriorates, therefore changing the oil at the proper time intervals, even if you are not driving your normal mileage, is important. Check the owner's manual for the maximum time you should wait between oil changes.
- Battery – Most newer vehicles have several computers that are in operation even when the car is off. When a car sits idle, the battery could die within a couple of weeks.
- Tires – Proper tire pressure is key for your safety, and improves performance and gas mileage. Checking the tire pressure when a car sits idle, will need to be done more often then. Tires on vehicles that sit idle can develop flat spots. To reduce this risk, take a short drive once a week.
- Brakes – When a vehicle isn’t driven, rust forms on the brake rotors, especially if parked outside.
- Fuel – Fuel systems assist to preserve the life of the gas in your tank and prevent fuel oxidation. Maintaining a full tank of gas helps limit gas-tank condensation. If you are concerned about your gas going bad, a fuel stabilizer can be used to extend the life of your fuel.
- Exterior – Removing the dirt and sediment on the outside of your vehicle will help prevent rust.
