Tips to Maintain a Car That is Rarely Driven

There are plenty of reasons why someone might not drive their car all that often. Maybe they have more than one car, or they mostly rely on public transport to get around. With remote work becoming more common, some folks just don’t need to drive as much anymore. Others might be cutting back on driving to reduce their carbon footprint or because they’re embracing a minimalist lifestyle.

Whatever the reason, not driving much can lead to some issues which can affect your car’s performance and shorten its longevity. To effectively maintain a car that is rarely driven, you will need to understand the specific care requirements that prevent stagnation and deterioration, ensuring that it remains in good working condition for when it’s needed.

10 Tips to Maintain a Car That is Seldom-Driven

To properly maintain a car that isn’t driven frequently requires a proactive approach to ensure it stays in good shape. Here are some effective tips to keep your seldom-driven vehicle running smoothly:

1. Drive the Car Weekly: To ensure your car remains in good working order, start the engine at least once a week for about 15 to 20 minutes. This practice helps keep the battery charged and allows engine fluids to circulate, which can prevent stagnation and protect engine components from corrosion. Further, it will alter the stress points on the tires and prevent flat spots from forming.
2. Check Tire Pressure: Regularly inspecting and adjusting your tire pressure is crucial. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer-recommended levels to prevent flat spots from forming during periods of inactivity. Proper tire pressure also maintains optimal traction and ensures safe handling when the car is back on the road.
3. Cover Your Car: Protect your vehicle by using a high-quality car cover, especially if it’s parked outdoors. This cover acts as a barrier against harmful UV rays, dust, and moisture, safeguarding the paint from fading and the interior from weather-induced wear and tear.
4. Use Fuel Stabilizer: If you anticipate leaving your car unused for a prolonged period, adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank can be beneficial. This additive prevents the fuel from breaking down and becoming gummy, which could clog the fuel system and affect engine performance.
5. Change Fluids: Regularly check and replace essential fluids such as engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Clean fluids are vital to preventing corrosion and wear within your engine and other systems, ensuring reliability and longevity.
6. Run the Air Conditioning: Periodically run your car’s air conditioning system, even in cooler months. This practice keeps the system’s seals lubricated and functional, preventing them from drying out and leading to costly repairs.
7. Maintain Battery Health: To prevent the battery from losing charge, consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger. These devices keep the battery at an optimal charge level, avoiding complete discharge which can shorten battery life.
8. Inspect Belts and Hoses: Conduct regular visual inspections of belts and hoses for any signs of wear, cracking, or fraying. These components are critical for engine function, and their deterioration when the car is idle can lead to significant mechanical issues.
9. Clean the Interior: Regular cleaning of your car’s interior helps prevent the accumulation of dirt and debris, which can attract pests and cause wear over time. Pay attention to vacuuming floors, wiping surfaces, and treating leather or upholstery to maintain a fresh and pleasant interior.
10. Schedule Periodic Maintenance: Even if your car isn’t driven often, it is important to schedule routine maintenance checks with a professional mechanic. These inspections can identify and address potential issues early, ensuring your vehicle remains in optimal condition and ready for use.

By following these guidelines, you’ll be well-equipped to effectively maintain a car that is seldom-driven, ensuring it remains in prime condition for whenever you decide to hit the road.

What Problems Can Occur When You Do Not Maintain a Car That is Infrequently Driven?

When a car is rarely driven, it can lead to several issues that may not be immediately noticeable but can have significant long-term effects. Understanding these potential problems is essential to maintain a car’s condition and functioning optimally. Below are some common issues that can arise from infrequent use:

1. Battery Drain: Car batteries can lose their charge over time, especially if the vehicle isn’t started regularly. A dead battery can leave you stranded and require a jump start or even replacement. Using a trickle charger can help you avoid a dead or dying battery and maintain a car’s electrical system.
2. Tire Deformation: Tires can develop flat spots if a car sits in one place for extended periods. This can lead to an uncomfortable ride, increase the risk of a blowout causing an auto accident, or even require the tires to be replaced sooner than expected. Driving the car every week will help prevent tires from flattening on the ground.
3. Fluid Deterioration: Engine oils, brake fluids, and coolant can break down if not circulated regularly. Old or ineffective fluids may lead to reduced performance and increased risk of engine damage. Weekly driving and regular maintenance can help prevent fluids from deteriorating.
4. Rust and Corrosion: Cars that sit idle can develop rust, especially in moist climates. Exposure to moisture can hasten the corrosion of metal components, ultimately affecting the vehicle’s structural integrity. Covering and driving your car can prevent rust and corrosion.
5. Brake Issues: Brake components can develop corrosion or stickiness if not exercised regularly. This can lead to reduced braking efficiency and may require repairs to ensure safety. Regular driving and maintenance will prevent degradation of brakes.
6. Pest Infestations: Vehicles that aren’t driven often can become homes for rodents or insects, which may chew through wiring or leave behind messes that are unsightly and difficult to clean. Driving the car regularly will help protect your car from rodents which might otherwise try to make it their home.
7. Fuel System Issues: Stagnant fuel can lead to a buildup of varnish and residue in the fuel system, potentially clogging the fuel injectors and fuel lines. This may result in poor engine performance or difficulty starting the vehicle after a long period of inactivity.
8. Exhaust System Problems: When a car is not driven frequently, moisture can accumulate in the exhaust system, leading to rust and deterioration. This can create leaks or reduce the overall efficiency of the exhaust system, impacting engine performance and emissions.
9. Seized Components: Certain components such as brake calipers and wheel bearings can seize if they are not regularly engaged. This can result in costly repairs and increased difficulty when attempting to drive the vehicle after a prolonged period of disuse. Intermittent driving will prevent seizing of vehicle components.
10. Oil Sludge Build-Up: If the oil isn’t changed regularly, it can break down and form sludge, which diminishes its ability to lubricate engine parts effectively. This can lead to increased friction, overheating, and ultimately engine damage. Even infrequent use of the vehicle can prevent oil sludge build-up.
11. Interior Deterioration: Extreme temperatures can damage the car’s interior, especially leather and vinyl surfaces, leading to cracks and fading. Sunlight exposure can also affect dashboard components, causing them to warp or become discolored. Covering and cleaning your vehicle can help maintain a car’s interior materials and prevent interior damage.
12. Alignment and Suspension Problems: Sitting in one position for too long can affect the alignment and suspension of the car, leading to uneven tire wear and a less comfortable ride when the vehicle is finally back on the road. Regular movement helps keep these systems functioning as intended.

Being aware of these potential problems can help you take preventive measures to keep your car in good working condition, even when it’s not driven regularly. By staying vigilant about these issues and incorporating regular maintenance practices, you can ensure that your seldom-driven car remains in top shape, allowing you to effectively maintain a car that is reliable and safe for your driving needs.