How to Maintain Car When it’s not Being Used

For many people, owning a car is a significant investment that requires proper maintenance and care from the best car diagnostic service to ensure it stays in good working order. However, sometimes life gets in the way, and our cars end up sitting unused for long periods. Whether it’s due to a prolonged vacation, a temporary move to a different city, or simply a lifestyle change, it’s important to know how to maintain your car when it’s not being used.

Searching for a car service to repair is essential. Thus, by searching for car engine service near me, you can find an engine repair shop where you can get your car engine inspected. In this article, we’ll explore some of the key steps you can take to keep your car in good condition, including caring for the battery, engine, tires, and other important components.

By following these tips, you can help ensure your car stays in top shape, even when it’s not in use.

Tips to Maintain your car while not in use

1. 1. Keep your Car Clean

   One of the most important things you can do to maintain your car when it’s not being used is to keep it clean. This includes both the exterior and interior of your car.

2. 2. Exterior Cleaning

   When your car sits unused for long periods of time, dust, dirt, and debris can accumulate on its exterior. Over time, this buildup can damage the paint and finish on your car, causing it to look dull and faded.
   To prevent this from happening, it’s important to wash your car regularly, even if you’re not using it. You can do this yourself with a bucket, sponge, and soap or take your car to a professional car wash. Either way, use mild soap and a soft sponge or cloth to avoid scratching the paint.
   In addition to washing your car, you may also want to consider waxing it. Waxing helps to protect the paint and finish from damage caused by the sun, rain, and other environmental factors.

3. 3. Interior Cleaning

   Just like the exterior of your car, the interior can also accumulate dust and debris over time. This can be especially true if you park your car in a garage or other enclosed space.

   To keep your car’s interior clean, start by removing any trash or clutter. Then, use a vacuum to clean the floors, seats, and other surfaces. You may also want to use a soft cloth and mild cleaner to wipe down the dashboard and other interior surfaces.

4. 4. Check the battery

   Another important part of maintaining your car when it’s not being used is to check the battery. Car batteries can lose their charge over time, especially if not used regularly.

   The average cost of car battery replacement can be huge; thus, preventing your car’s battery from dying is important. Consider investing in a battery tender or trickle charger. These devices help keep the battery in good condition, even when the car is not being used.
   You can also take steps to extend the life of your car’s battery by turning off all electronics when you park the car, such as the radio and lights. This can help to prevent the battery from draining unnecessarily.

5. 5. Engine Care

   Finally, it’s important to take care of your car’s engine, even when the car is not being used. This includes regular maintenance and inspection to ensure the engine runs smoothly. You can also look for free car inspection in Adelaide to get your car’s engine inspected by a professional.

6. 6. Oil Changes

   Changing the engine oil is one of the most important things that one can do to keep their car’s engine running smoothly. Oil not only lubricates the engine but also allows your vehicle to run smoothly, but over time it can become dirty and contaminated.

7. To prevent this from happening, make sure to change the oil according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. This typically means changing the oil every 5,000 to 7,000 miles, depending on your oil type.

8. 7. Fluid Checks

   In addition to changing the oil, checking the other fluids in your car is also important. This includes the coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.

   These fluids help to keep your car’s various systems running smoothly, and if they become low or contaminated, they can cause serious damage to your car’s engine and other components.
   To check these fluids:

   1. Simply pop the hood of your car and look for the reservoirs where they are stored.
   2. Check the fluid levels and make sure they are at the appropriate levels.
   3. If any of the fluids look dirty or contaminated, consider having them flushed and replaced.

1. 8. Tire Maintenance

   Finally, taking care of your car tires is important, even when the car is not being used. This includes checking the tire pressure regularly and ensuring the tires are in good condition.

   When your car sits unused for long periods, the tires can lose air pressure and develop flat spots. To prevent this from happening, make sure to check the tire pressure regularly and inflate the tires to the appropriate level.

Additional Tips to maintain your Car

You should also check the tires for signs of wear and damage, such as cracks or bulges. If you notice any issues, have the tires inspected by a professional and replace them if necessary.

In addition to these steps, you can do a few other things to maintain your car when it’s not being used. These include:

1. Driving the car regularly

   Even if you’re not using your car every day, it’s a good idea to drive it at least once a week to keep the engine and other components in good working order.

2. Storing the car properly

   If you’re going to be storing your car for an extended period, it’s important to do so properly. This may include using a car cover, storing it in a dry, cool place, and taking other steps to protect it from the elements.

3. Having the car inspected

   Consider having your car inspected by a professional mechanic regularly, even if you’re not using it frequently. A mechanic can help identify any potential issues early on and advise on maintaining your car in the best possible condition.

4. Keeping the fuel tank full

   If you’re storing your car for an extended period, it’s important to keep the fuel tank full. This can help prevent condensation from forming inside the tank, which can lead to rust and other issues.

5. Changing the oil

   If you’re not using your car frequently, it may be tempting to skip oil changes. However, it’s important to change the oil regularly to ensure the engine stays lubricated and contaminant-free.

6. Keeping the interior clean

   Dust and dirt can accumulate inside when your car sits unused for long periods. To prevent this from happening, make sure to keep the interior clean and free of debris.

7. Checking the brakes

   Just like the tires, the brakes can develop issues when a car sits unused for long periods of time. To prevent this from happening, check the brakes regularly and have them serviced if necessary.

8. Disconnecting the battery

   If you aren’t using your car for an extended period, consider disconnecting the battery to prevent it from draining. This can also help prevent issues with the electrical system.

Summing Up

In conclusion, maintaining your car when it’s not being used is an important part of car ownership. By keeping your car clean, maintaining the battery, caring for the engine, and taking care of the tires, you can help ensure that your car stays in good working order for years to come. If you’re staying in Adelaide, you can find some of the best 4wd car services in Adelaide to get your 4WD vehicles inspected.

Also Read: How much does it cost to repair a car engine?