You may be going on holiday and leaving your car undriven for a few weeks
Many people will be leaving their cars undriven as they head on holiday this year. But this could cause an issue – and you could even have an “infestation”.
According to RAC Drive, there are a few common problems that can occur when you don’t use your car. It explains: “If you do not drive your car regularly, then there are several serious issues that could result in costly repairs.”
The most common problem is a flat car battery. If the car isn’t used for a long time, the battery can run down, especially in cold weather. It may even need to be replaced.
But what other issues are there and what should you do if you need to leave your car? Here is what you need to know.
Is it ok to leave my car undriven?
Yes and no. It depends on how long you leave it for, as the longer you leave it, the more problems you may face.
Tyres
As well as your battery dying, another issue is flat tyres. When a car isn’t moved for a long time, the tyres can slowly lose air and develop flat spots.
RAC Drive explains that this can damage them, and just like the battery, they may need replacing. They may also dry out and crack, especially in hot or sunny weather.
Engine
Modern cars have many electrical systems that improve driving, but if the engine is left off for too long, electrical connections can corrode, causing engine problems or other faults.
Fluid, fuel and brake problems
Fluids and fuel can also go bad over time, leading to poor car performance. These issues can be expensive to repair.
RAC Drive added: “If the vehicle is left exposed to the elements, then rust and corrosion will gradually occur. Also, crucial parts of the vehicle, including the brakes, can seize up. This issue can also lead to seals in multiple parts of the vehicle breaking down – leading to mould and rot appearing.”
Infestation
RAC Drive said: “If a vehicle is left for a long time, you could end up with an infestation of rodents and insects.”
How long can I leave my car without starting it?
How long a car can sit without being started depends on factors such as its make and model, battery condition, climate, and storage conditions. In general, a car left for up to two weeks will usually be fine, with little risk to the battery, tyres, fuel, or fluids.
It added: “There is a general understanding that leaving a car for up to two weeks will more than likely mean that your vehicle should be fine, with minimal risk to the battery, tyres, fuel, or fluids in the vehicle.”
How long can a car battery sit unused?
If a car battery is left unused for more than a month, it can start to lose charge, and the fluid inside may degrade. Fuel can also break down and form sludge in the fuel lines and injectors.
I need to leave my car – what should I do?
To avoid problems when leaving your car unused for a long time, RAC Drive urges drivers to take a few important steps.
Up to a month
“If you are looking to leave your vehicle up to a month without turning it on and driving, then there may be some issues to be aware of. The battery may start to weaken, especially if it’s older or the car has many electronic systems that draw power even when off.
“There may also be slight flat spotting and pressure loss on the tyres. Also, if the vehicle is left exposed to the elements, then the surface of the vehicle or brakes may show signs of rust or corrosion.”
To prevent these issues, store your car in a garage or use a car cover. To help keep the battery healthy, disconnect it or use a trickle charger.
Three months
RAC Drive says that if you need to leave your vehicle for up to three months, the issues with the battery, fuel, fluids, and tyres are likely to worsen. You’ll need to top up your fluids or completely swap them out.
If the tyres are damaged, they will need to be replaced. You may be able to prevent damage by inflating them to the maximum recommended pressure before leaving the car.
Laying up a car – how do I do it?
RAC Drive explains that “laying up a car, or preparing it for long-term storage, involves several steps to ensure that it remains in good condition while it is not being used”.
Here are the best steps to take to make sure your car is ready for laying up:
- Clean the car
- Change fluids
- Disconnect battery
- Inflate tyres
- Move the vehicle as often as possible
- Do not use parking brake to avoid seizure
- Use a UV-resistant car cover
- Store in a climate controlled environment if possible
- Drive the car for more than 20 minutes every few weeks to avoid issues
For more information, you can visit the RAC Drive website here. You can also read more on motoring here.
