What Happens to a Car When Left Untouched for Months?
Leaving your car unused for extended periods, especially in cold weather, can lead to significant issues affecting its performance and longevity. Whether you store your car in a garage or leave it outdoors, there are several challenges that arise. This article explores the common problems that occur when a car sits idle for months on end, along with tips to mitigate these issues and ensure your vehicle is ready for its next use.
The Dangers of Neglecting Your Car During Winter
When a car sits for months, especially during the winter months, several components can and will deteriorate. For example, if the vehicle’s battery is not disconnected or adequately maintained, it can drain over time, leading to a complete loss of power. This issue is also compounded if you do not ensure that the battery is charged properly before storing the vehicle for an extended period.
Additionally, the gasoline in your tank and fuel lines can begin to degrade due to oxidation and evaporation, leading to clogs and potential damage to your fuel system. Your tires may develop flat spots, which can impact their safety and performance when you need to drive them again. Engine oil, which typically coats and protects the cylinders, can drain into the oil pan, leaving the internal moving parts vulnerable to wear and tear.
Storage Tips for Winter
Proper preparation can help mitigate many of the issues associated with long-term car storage. Here are some valuable tips to consider:
1. Disconnect the Battery
Disconnecting the battery is one of the most crucial steps in preparing your car for storage. Even if you charge the battery before storage, it may slowly drain over time if not properly disconnected. This is especially important during colder months when the temperature can affect battery performance.
2. Perform Regular Maintenance
Before storing your car, ensure that it undergoes a thorough maintenance check. This includes an oil change, adding fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline degradation, and topping up the tires with air to the recommended pressure. These steps can help maintain the overall health of your vehicle and prepare it for future use.
3. Consider Fuel Stabilizer
Fuel stabilizer can be added to the tank to improve the longevity of gasoline during storage. This helps prevent the formation of varnish, gum, and deposits that can clog fuel lines and injectors, making it easier to start your car when you pull it out of storage.
4. Protect the Battery and Battery Terminals
Consider applying a coating to the battery terminals to prevent corrosion and ensure a clean connection when you reconnect the battery. This can help prolong the life of your battery and make it easier to start your car after storage.
5. Use Wheel Blocks and Chocks
Using wheel blocks or chocks can prevent your car from possibly rolling away, especially on inclines. This is crucial to avoid accidents and to ensure the safety of your vehicle during storage.
Regional Differences in Car Storage
The condition of your car during storage can vary significantly depending on your location. For example, in colder regions like Iowa, cars left outdoors may be more susceptible to freezing and thawing cycles, leading to rust and other damage. In more populated areas, such as central London, the risks of vandalism or theft are higher, and authorities may seize or impound the vehicle to recover costs or ensure public safety.
Conclusion
Proper preparation and regular maintenance are key to ensuring that your car remains in good condition during extended periods of storage. By following these tips, you can minimize the risks associated with leaving your vehicle unused and be ready for its next use without any significant issues.
References
1. How to Store Your Car for the Winter
2. How to Store Your Car Correctly