How to Maintain a Car That You Don't Drive Often

Why Infrequent Driving Can Harm Your Car

• Battery Drain and Electronic System Issues

Car batteries lose charge if they’re not recharged through regular driving. It typically results in faster battery drainage. You may have to use a jump start or replace the entire battery to restart the car in such cases. 

The electronic systems in modern vehicles require consistent power to function. Hence, if a car is left unused for months, it can lead to malfunctioning or losing the programmed settings of the car’s electronic systems.  

• Brake Rust and Sticky Callipers

Brake rotors can rust due to condensation if the car isn’t used frequently. It can lower the car’s performance, so ensure you drive your car at least once a week. 

Even brake callipers can become sticky if the car is left unused for weeks, making it harder for the brakes to function correctly when you attempt to drive the car. These sticky callipers can accelerate the deterioration of brake pads, compromising your safety.  

• Fluid Deterioration and Fuel Staleness

Frequent driving is necessary to prevent oil and brake fluids from breaking down and becoming dirty over time. Even the fuel left in the tank for an extended period can degrade. It will result in severe engine problems, brake issues, or other mechanical troubles that might require expensive repairs.
 

Essential Maintenance Tips for Idle Cars

• Use Your Car Every Week

Using your car once a week can charge your car’s battery and circulate fluids throughout the car’s machinery. It can also maintain engine seals, leading to safe driving experiences. 

• Check Tyre Pressure Every Month

Since tyres lose pressure over time, one of the best tips to maintain unused cars is checking and maintaining proper pressures every month. It can prevent permanent tyre deformation. 

• Add Fuel Stabiliser

If you don’t plan to use your car for a few weeks in a row, then use a fuel stabiliser to prevent gas degradation and protect fuel system components from moisture-related damage.

• Monitor Fluid Levels

One of the best car maintenance tips in India is to check oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid monthly. Ensure they’re topped off for smooth driving experiences. Even if you don’t drive much, you’ll still have to change the oils and coolants periodically for safe driving experiences.
 

Storage Best Practices

• Park in a Shaded or Covered Area

Never park your car under direct sunlight because it can cause severe damage. Dashboard cracking, interior fading, and exterior paint damage through UV rays are common examples. It can lead to a heat buildup, accelerating rubber seal deterioration and battery discharge. 

Hence, always park your car in a covered area to protect your vehicle against weather damage. It can also help maintain stable temperatures and extend the vehicle’s cosmetic and mechanical lifespan.   

• Use a Car Cover to Protect from Dust and UV Rays

Covering the car with any breathable cover can shield the car’s exterior paint from UV damage and protect it from dust accumulation on the surface. Consider investing in a breathable cover that easily fits the entire car.
 

Insurance Considerations for Low-Usage Vehicles

Even if you don’t use your car frequently, you will still need to secure it under a relevant car insurance policy. While you can choose to insure the vehicle under comprehensive or third-party insurance, there’s a more cost-effective option. You can explore insurers that provide ‘Pay As You Drive’ insurance. 

When you opt for this insurance, your premiums will be calculated based on the kilometres you drive. It means lesser driven cars will have to pay lower premiums. It’s the most economical insurance option available for occasional drivers.
 

Checklist Before Driving Again

• Inspect Tyres and Brakes

Check the tyre pressure, tread depth, and sidewall condition if you’re using your car after a long period. You can test brakes gently at low speeds to ensure proper functioning and removal of surface rust. 

• Check All Fluid Levels

Before driving your car again, check all fluid levels. Engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, power steering fluid, and windshield washer levels are some examples that should be checked. We also suggest looking for leaks, discolouration, or contamination. Top up the essential fluids (if needed) for a safe driving experience. 

• Examine Belts and Hoses

Inspect drive belts and hoses for any cracks or other visible damage from extended non-usage. Rubber components should be specially checked as they’re highly vulnerable to age-related failure. 

• Test Battery and Electrical Systems

Always start the engine briefly to test its headlights, indicator lights, brake lights, and other systems to ensure they’re working properly. Dashboard warning lights should also be checked for safety purposes.
 

Conclusion

Rarely used cars should be maintained similarly to how you maintain frequently used cars. Proactive maintenance of rarely used cars can prevent costly repairs, ensure safe driving experiences, and maintain the vehicle value. So, follow all the car maintenance tips shared in this blog to keep your vehicle in good condition.

For enhanced protection, consider securing the car under a Comprehensive Shriram Car Insurance. It will protect you financially against costly repairs that may arise from lack of maintenance.
 

FAQs

1. What happens if I don’t drive my car for months?

If you don’t drive your car for months and also don’t take proactive steps to maintain it, the vehicle’s battery may die, brakes may rust up, seals can dry, fluids may degrade, tyres develop flat spots, etc., leading to difficulty starting the car.
 

2. How often should I start my unused car?

Even if you don’t have any immediate need to go anywhere,  try to use your car at least once every week. Take it out for a 15-20 minute quick drive so it retains its usability.
 

3. Can I skip insurance for a car I rarely drive?

No, car insurance is mandatory for every vehicle, even if you don’t drive it often. Not getting your car insured may lead to fines and penalties.
 

4. What is the best way to store a car long-term?

You should park it in a covered area and use a breathable cover that easily covers the entire vehicle.
 

5. How do I prevent battery drain in idle cars?

Disconnect the battery if you don’t plan to use the car for a long period. You can also use a trickle charger or solar maintainer, switch off all electronics, and start the car weekly to prevent battery drainage.