What happens when you don’t start your car for a while?

We get that there are many reasons why a person may not use their vehicles for a long period of time such as travelling abroad, overseas work, or even the rising fuel prices. Whatever it may be, you might want to ask someone to take care of your precious car to avoid problems for you and your wallet.

Just what sort of headaches could it bring, you ask? Here’s a rundown of the things that could happen to your car when you leave it alone untouched for 15 days or more.

It will collect dust

Let’s start with the obvious and the quickest thing that could happen to your car. Your vehicle will start collecting dust in just a few days. While a simple wash and wax can make it look good as new, the dust collected in its parts like the suspension, brakes, or even the air filter may prevent the vehicle from functioning properly and eventually cause internal damage.

The battery will die

Another item that will get affected quickly is the car’s battery. It would take around two weeks before the battery drains completely if the car isn't used. If you know that you won’t be using your car for a long time, it’s highly advised to disconnect the battery or turn on the engine from time-to-time, and run it for around five minutes to allow the alternator to recharge the battery. 

Tires will deflate and degrade

Although this could take months, the tires will surely deflate over time. This will also degrade the rubber as it takes on the car’s weight with less air which may cause cracks. Make sure you inflate the tires to the recommended PSI rating or place something that’s high and strong enough to support the car so the tires won’t handle the stress like a jack or a few hollow blocks.

Insect infestation is possible

Be it mosquitoes, cockroaches, or rats - insect or pest infestation isn't unusual especially in long time immobile objects. Your car is no exemption. The dark, humid, and enclosed areas of your vehicle provide a safe haven from the sun or rain.

In the event that this has happened to your car, call pest control so that they can properly and safely take care of the infestation. You wouldn’t want to be in an accident just because a cockroach crawled on your foot.

Body rusting

It’s no secret that metal develops into rust when left exposed to the elements without care or treatment. Considering your car has many metal parts in it, rust or corrosion can happen when not maintained. This is very dangerous as these metal parts can be hidden under the paint or in areas not easily seen.

Most important tip: Run it even when you leave it.

If it really can’t be avoided to leave your car for a long time, be sure to have a trusted mechanic run a thorough check up on your vehicle before you use it again. He should be able to check on rusted parts and replace important fluids. Better yet, let someone you trust run the car for a few minutes every so often while you’re away so that it won’t just rot in the garage. As we always say, better safe than sorry.