When you decide to store your car for an extended period, it’s easy to assume that leaving it untouched is the best course of action. However, cars are built to be driven, and long-term car storage without occasional use can lead to issues that may impact their performance and longevity.
Knowing how often you should drive a car in storage is essential to keep it in good shape and avoid unnecessary repairs. Let’s explore what you need to know about maintaining a stored vehicle.
The Importance of Driving a Stored Car
When a car sits idle for too long, various components can deteriorate. Batteries may lose charge, tyres can develop flat spots, and fluids can become stagnant, leading to corrosion or clogging.
By driving your stored car occasionally, you help maintain its overall condition, ensuring it’s ready to use when you need it.
- Battery Health: A car battery naturally discharges over time, and a completely flat battery may not recover even with charging. Driving your car regularly helps the alternator recharge the battery, keeping it functional.
- Tyre Care: Tyres left in one position for too long can develop flat spots. Driving prevents this by distributing weight evenly and maintaining tyre shape.
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How Often Should You Drive It?
As a general guideline, it’s recommended to drive your stored car for about 15-30 minutes every two weeks. This short trip allows the engine to reach its operating temperature, which helps prevent moisture build-up in the exhaust and engine components. Regular driving also keeps the battery charged and lubricates vital systems.
If fortnightly driving isn’t feasible, consider using a trickle charger to maintain the battery and rolling the car a short distance to shift tyre positions.
Seasonal Considerations
The UK’s weather plays a significant role in car storage maintenance. Cold and damp conditions during winter can exacerbate issues like battery drainage and rust formation. Here are some specific tips:
Winter Storage: During colder months, aim to drive your car every two weeks to prevent freezing of fluids and condensation in the exhaust. If driving isn’t possible, starting the engine periodically can help, but ensure proper ventilation to avoid carbon monoxide build-up.
Summer Storage: Even in warmer weather, regular driving is crucial. Heat can accelerate the degradation of fluids, and tyres may lose pressure faster. Driving ensures that the air conditioning system remains functional, preventing seals from drying out.
Practical Steps for Driving a Stored Car
To make the most of your short drives, follow these practical steps:
- Inspect Before Starting: Check the tyre pressure, fluid levels, and any signs of leaks or damage.
- Drive at Different Speeds: Varying speeds during your drive helps ensure all components, such as brakes and transmission, operate correctly.
- Use All Features: Turn on the air conditioning and heating systems to keep them in working order.
- Monitor Warning Lights: Pay attention to any dashboard alerts that may indicate underlying issues.
Alternatives to Regular Driving
If you’re unable to drive your car regularly, there are alternatives to help maintain its condition:
- Trickle Charger: A trickle charger can keep your battery charged without the need for frequent driving. These devices are particularly useful for long-term storage in a garage.
- Tyre Savers: Investing in tyre savers can prevent flat spots, especially if you don’t plan to move the car often.
- Fuel Stabiliser: Adding a fuel stabiliser to your tank can prevent petrol or diesel from deteriorating, which is a common problem during extended storage periods.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
While occasional driving is beneficial, certain practices can do more harm than good:
- Short Engine Starts: Starting the engine for just a few minutes without driving can lead to condensation build-up, causing rust and other issues.
- Neglecting Tyre Pressure: Driving on underinflated tyres can damage them and affect handling.
- Ignoring Warning Signs: If you notice unusual sounds or dashboard warnings, address them promptly instead of waiting until the car is back in regular use.
Expert Tips for Long-Term Car Storage
If you’re planning to store your car for several months or longer, consider these expert tips:
Clean Thoroughly
Wash and wax your car before storing it to prevent dirt and grime from causing rust or paint damage. Pay special attention to areas prone to dirt accumulation, such as wheel arches and undercarriages, as these can harbour moisture and lead to corrosion.
Use a Car Cover
A breathable car cover can protect your vehicle from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors. Avoid using non-breathable covers, as these can trap moisture and increase the risk of rust.
Park on a Hard Surface
Avoid parking on grass or dirt, as moisture from the ground can accelerate rust formation. If possible, use a garage or a driveway with proper drainage to minimise exposure to damp conditions.
Maintain Insurance
Even if your car is off the road, keeping it insured is essential to cover potential damage or theft. Check your policy to ensure it includes coverage for parked vehicles and consider notifying your insurer if the car will be out of use for an extended period.
Check Fluid Levels
Before storing, top up essential fluids like engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid. Ensuring proper fluid levels helps prevent internal corrosion and keeps components lubricated during storage.
Disconnect the Battery
If you’re storing the car for an extended period without driving, consider disconnecting the battery to prevent it from draining completely. Store the battery in a cool, dry place if you remove it.
Lift the Car
Using jack stands to lift the car slightly off the ground can prevent tyre flat spots and reduce strain on suspension components during long-term storage.
Final Notes
By driving your car in storage every couple of weeks, you’re taking proactive steps to maintain its health and performance.
Regular short drives help prevent common issues like battery failure, tyre damage, and fluid degradation. If driving isn’t an option, alternatives such as trickle chargers and tyre savers can help keep your vehicle in good condition.
With a bit of regular care and attention, you can avoid costly repairs and enjoy a smoother driving experience whenever you take your car out of storage. Rest assured, we’ll take care of all of this for you at AutoVault.
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