Tips for Maintaining Your Idle Car
Author: Toby Date Posted:8 May 2024
As car enthusiasts and practical Aussies alike know, cars not starting after a long time is a common concern, especially when vehicles are parked for extended periods. Whether you're taking a break from the road or your car's sitting idle for other reasons, a little TLC goes a long way in keeping it ready for action when you need it most. In this guide, we'll explore some handy tips for ensuring your idle car stays in top condition, from preventing starting issues to maximising its longevity.
Regular Start-Ups
One of the most common concerns with an idle car is the risk of it not starting after a long period. To avoid this headache, how often you start your car is a key consideration. Aim to start your car at least once every two weeks, if possible, and let it run for a few minutes. This helps to keep the battery charged, lubricates engine components, and prevents fluids from stagnating. Additionally, if your vehicle has been sitting for an extended period, consider taking it for a short drive to ensure all parts are properly warmed up.
Battery Care
The battery is often the first casualty of an idle car. To prevent a car not starting after a long time, it's essential to maintain your battery properly. Invest in a quality car battery trickle charger to keep the battery charged during periods of inactivity. Additionally, consider disconnecting the negative terminal to prevent parasitic drain. Immediately replace the old ones with new car batteries if signs of deterioration show.
Fluid Checks and Changes
Even when your car is idle, its fluids can degrade over time, leading to potential issues when you do start it up. Regularly check the fluid levels and top them up as needed. It's also a good idea to change the car oil before parking your car for an extended period to prevent contaminants from damaging the engine. Similarly, ensure coolants, brake fluids, and transmission fluids are at the proper levels and in good condition.
Tyre Maintenance
Leaving your car stationary for too long can cause flat spots to develop on the tyres, affecting their performance and longevity. The time before a tyre goes flat can vary based on factors like temperature, tyre condition, and air pressure. Generally, tyres can go flat after several weeks or months of not being used. To avoid this, inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure before parking your car. Additionally, consider using tyre ramps or jacks to take some weight off the tyres if possible. Periodically rotate the tyres to prevent uneven wear and tear.
Protecting the Exterior and Interior
While your car may be parked, it's still exposed to the elements, which can take a toll on its exterior and interior. Invest in a quality car cover to protect the paintwork from sun damage, bird droppings, and other debris. Inside the car, use sunshades to prevent the dashboard and upholstery from fading due to UV exposure. Consider placing moisture-absorbing products inside the cabin to prevent mould and mildew growth.
Fuel Management
Leaving a full tank of fuel in your idle car can lead to fuel degradation over time, affecting engine performance. To prevent this, add a fuel stabiliser to the tank before parking your car for an extended period. This helps to preserve the fuel and prevent it from deteriorating. Additionally, consider draining the fuel system if your car will be idle for several months.
DIY Car Servicing
Feeling confident? Servicing your idle car yourself can be a rewarding and cost-effective option. Basic tasks like checking fluid levels, changing the oil and air filters, and inspecting the battery can often be done at home with the right tools and guidance. Just remember to follow safety precautions and consult your vehicle's manual for specific instructions. If unsure, it's always best to seek professional help.
Maximise Your Idle Car's Lifespan with SuperSpares
With these tips in mind, you can ensure that your idle car remains in top condition, ready to hit the road whenever you need it. Remember to perform regular start-ups, maintain the battery, check and change fluids, care for the tyres, protect the exterior and interior, and manage the fuel properly. By taking proactive measures, you'll avoid common issues such as a car not starting after a long time and maximise the lifespan of your vehicle. For quality car service essentials, parts, and accessories, check out SuperSpares to keep your car in top shape.
