It isn’t cheap running a car, so you could be forgiven for thinking that leaving it parked up on your driveway would save you money. But cars are built to be driven, not left idle for weeks or months at a time. When a vehicle sits for too long, it can lead to a surprising number of issues that affect performance, safety, and reliability. Here are some common issues that can arise when your car spends more time parked than on the road.
Dead Battery
Your battery suffers when your car is parked up. Without regular use, the alternator doesn’t have a chance to recharge it, and parasitic drains from systems like the clock or security features will eventually sap its power. A dead battery can leave you stranded or unable to start the car at all. If the battery sits discharged for too long, it may need a complete replacement.
Flat Tires
Tires suffer too. They can lose air pressure naturally over time, but when a car sits in one spot for weeks or months, the weight of the vehicle pressing down on the same area can cause flat spots to develop, ruining the tires’ shape and performance. Driving on flat-spotted tires will affect handling and often requires costly replacement.
Rusty Brakes
While your car sits unused, moisture will settle on the brake rotors, eventually leading to rust. This rust can reduce braking performance and, in severe cases, cause the brakes to stick or seize up entirely. If the problem is caught early, a simple drive can clear off light rust, but prolonged sitting might mean replacing parts of the braking system.
Fuel Degradation
Did you know that gasoline has a sell-by date? When your car sits for months, the fuel in the tank can begin to degrade, losing its combustibility and forming varnish-like deposits that can clog the fuel system. In diesel cars, algae and bacteria will grow and render the fuel unusable. Adding a fuel stabilizer before long periods of inactivity can help.
Stale Engine Oil
Contaminants like moisture and dirt build up in your engine oil over time, leading to a sludge-like consistency in the bottom of the sump. Your oil can break down and lose effectiveness if the car isn’t driven. This puts extra strain on your engine once you start driving again, potentially causing damage.
Frozen or Dried-Out Fluids
If your car is left out in the extreme cold, fluids like coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid can either freeze or dry out over time. Without proper circulation, these fluids will lose their ability to protect and lubricate essential systems, leading to corrosion and expensive mechanical failures.
Rodent Damage
Wild rodents are always on the lookout for cosy real estate – and a parked-up car fits the bill nicely. An idle car will attract unwanted guests like mice and rats, which often take shelter in the engine bay, where they chew through wiring and insulation. This can lead to electrical problems, from malfunctioning sensors to a car that won’t start.
Stuck Parking Brake
If you park up with your parking brake engaged it can seize up due to corrosion, or become stuck in place. This makes it hard to move the car when you finally try to drive it. To avoid this, consider using wheel chocks instead of the parking brake if you plan to leave your car parked up for extended periods.
Suspension Sag
The constant movement of driving is good for your car’s suspension system. When a vehicle sits idle for too long, the springs, shocks, and struts can weaken or develop flat spots. This sagging affects the car’s ride comfort and handling, potentially requiring an expensive repair to restore its original performance.
Mold and Mildew
Sitting unused is bad for your car’s interior. If moisture gets inside while it’s sitting unused, it can lead to mold and mildew growth. This problem is particularly common in areas with high humidity. Mold can ruin your seats and carpets, create foul odors, and even cause health issues. Regularly airing out your car or using moisture-absorbing products can help prevent this problem.
Corroded Electrical Connections
Moisture collects on the metal parts of unused cars, leading to corrosion on electrical connectors, especially in the battery terminals and engine bay. Corroded connections will disrupt power flow to critical systems, leading to starting problems or electrical failures. Cleaning terminals and applying anti-corrosion sprays can help.
Sticky Locks
Locks and door mechanisms rely on being opened and closed regularly. They can seize up when a car sits idle, especially in humid or cold climates. Over time, dirt, rust, or lack of use can make it difficult to unlock doors. A quick application of lock lubricant should keep them functioning smoothly.
Exhaust System Rust
While your car is dormant, rust isn’t. Moisture trapped in the exhaust system is usually burned off by the heat from the exhaust gases, but when it’s parked up it provides the ideal conditions for rust to rot away the steel. Driving your car for even short trips will help clear out moisture and prevent costly damage.
Transmission Problems
When a car sits for too long, the transmission fluid can settle, dry out, or deteriorate, causing hard shifts or other transmission problems. Automatic transmissions rely on fluid to stay lubricated and maintain pressure. Keeping your car in good shape means running it occasionally to keep those fluids circulating.
Weak Belts and Hoses
Another material that suffers is rubber. Rubber belts and hoses can become perished, brittle or crack when left unused. This will lead to leaks, overheating, or even a snapped belt when you try to drive the car again. Inspecting and replacing these rubber components is essential to avoid bigger problems down the road.
Faded Paint
Paintwork is damaged by prolonged exposure to the elements, especially in warm climates. While your car is parked up, strong sunlight will cause your car’s paint to fade or peel. Over time, this not only hurts your car’s appearance but can also lead to rust forming on unprotected surfaces. A car cover or indoor storage can help maintain your car’s good looks.
Clogged Air Filters
An accumulation of dust and debris can clog up your car’s air filters while it sits idle. A blocked filter reduces airflow to the engine, impacting performance and fuel efficiency. Regularly checking and replacing the filters if necessary can keep your engine running smoothly when you start driving again.
Worn Wiper Blades
Windshield wiper blades will deteriorate even when the car isn’t in use. Exposure to heat, cold, and sunlight causes the rubber to crack, harden, or lose flexibility over time. The next time you use them, they may streak or fail to clear the windshield properly. Replacing your wiper blades every six months is a simple and inexpensive way to ensure clear visibility whenever you get back on the road.