Do you have a car that spends more time parked than on the road? Leaving a vehicle unused can lead to some unexpected issues, whether due to remote work, lifestyle changes, or just not needing it often.

Luckily, with a few simple steps, you can keep it in great shape so it’s ready to roll whenever you are.

 

How Long Can a Car Sit Without Being Driven?

Generally, most vehicles can stay parked for about two weeks without major problems. But after that, some parts may start to suffer. The battery, for instance, can drain faster if the car isn’t started regularly. Tires can also develop flat spots from sitting too long in one place.

So, while your car might be fine for a couple of weeks, it’s best to take action sooner rather than later to avoid any lasting damage.

 

9 Tips for Maintaining a Car That Isn’t Driven Much

Keeping a car that doesn’t get much use in good shape is easy if you follow a few key steps:

 

Start and Drive the Car Regularly

Start the engine and go for a quick drive, even if it’s just once a week or every two weeks. A 15-20 minute drive keeps the battery charged and circulates fluids to keep things running well.

 

Check Tire Pressure

Tires lose air over time, especially when not in use. Check them weekly and fill them as needed. Move the car a bit every few weeks to prevent flat spots. 

 

Change Fluids Regularly

Even with minimal driving, fluids like oil, coolant, and brake fluid can degrade. Change the oil every six months, regardless of mileage, and check other fluids regularly. While at it, check the car’s hoses and belts to catch any signs of wear or leaks.

 

Keep the Fuel Tank Full

A full tank will help prevent moisture buildup and rust. If you’re not planning on driving your car for a while, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to keep the gasoline fresh.

 

Clean and Protect the Car’s Exterior

Regularly clean and wax your vehicle to protect the paint from dirt and debris. If parked outside, invest in a car cover to shield it from the elements.

 

Clean the Interior

Vacuum regularly and get rid of any food or debris that could attract rodents or insects. Periodically inspect for signs of infestations, especially under seats and in the trunk.

 

Inspect the Battery

A trickle charger can keep your battery topped off without overcharging. Also, check the battery terminals for any signs of corrosion to prevent unexpected breakdowns when you decide to drive.

 

Skip the Parking Brake

If you plan on parking your car for a long time, use chock wheels to prevent rolling. The parking brake can stick if it’s engaged for too long.

 

Get Professional Help When Needed

Schedule periodic check-ups with a mechanic to make sure everything’s in working order. You should also review your car’s manual for maintenance tips and join online forums for advice from other owners of similar vehicles.

 

How to Know if Your Car Is a Lemon

Sometimes, a car may not be driven much due to underlying issues. If your vehicle isn’t holding up and keeps needing repairs, it may qualify as a lemon under California’s lemon law. Here’s what to look for:

• Frequent Repair Attempts: California law generally requires the dealer or manufacturer to have made at least two to four attempts to repair the same serious issue before a car qualifies as a lemon.

• Significant Issues Within Warranty: To qualify, the problem must affect the vehicle’s use, value, or safety and typically must have started while the car was under warranty.

• Out of Service for Extended Time: If the car has been out of service for more than 30 days (total, not necessarily consecutive), that could also indicate it’s a lemon.

California’s lemon law may offer protection if you face persistent issues. Speaking with a lemon law attorney can help you explore your options.

 

Have Questions? Contact Our California Lemon Law Firm Today!

Do you think your 2019 or newer car might be a lemon? Have questions about your rights? Reach out to our team at Norman Taylor & Associates. We’re here to make lemon law claims simple and help you every step of the way.

Call 818-244-3905 or contact us to schedule a FREE, no-obligation consultation with our experienced attorneys today!

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