6 Things You Can Do When Driving Less

There are several reasons why your car might not be driven much. It might be your second car, maybe it’s a collector’s item, there’s a pandemic, or perhaps you have to leave for a while for school or work. Regardless of the reason, your vehicle needs some TLC, even if it’s stationary. Failing to properly take care of your car while you are not driving can have a significant impact on its functionality.

It is possible to avoid the negative impacts of extensive parking if you follow the correct procedures. Fortunately for you, we have compiled a few tips that will help keep your vehicle in good working order, even if you seldom use it.

Tips Maintaining A Car That You Seldom Use

Most people believe that you don’t need to maintain a car that you don’t use, but that is not the case. Part of your responsibility as a car owner is maintenance – it’s mandatory for its health regardless of whether you use it or not. The following are helpful tips to keep your vehicle in good shape during storage.

Make sure your car is clean

In case you need to store your vehicle for whatever reason, it’s important to store it clean. Car owners can start by cleaning the car from top to bottom, including the hard to reach areas. Also, consider spraying any unpainted regions with undercoat to protect the vehicle from rust. If possible, polish or wax the exterior.

Check on your pressure to prevent flats

Make it a habit to regularly check your tire pressure and ensure that it is in line with your manufacturer’s recommendations. It is usual for your tires to lose air over time, regularly checking them will help prevent you from getting flats. According to our lead technicians at AAMCO Minnesota, nitrogen-filled tires leak less compared to oxygen-filled tires. If possible, use jack stands or consider rolling the car to prevent getting flat spots.

Fill up the fuel tank

One major issue with leaving your car unused for a long time is rust on the inside of the tank. The best way you can avoid this problem is by filling the tank to the brim with quality fuel. It will prevent air and moisture from getting into the tank and forming rust. Also, make sure your tank is closed correctly.

Protect your battery

If you are going to leave your car unused for a long time, remove the battery. If possible, apply grease or petroleum jelly on the battery terminals and wire ends to prevent rust and corrosion. Also, ensure the battery is fully charged, and serviced, check the water levels are appropriate. Store your car battery in a cool, dry place away from direct sun rays.

Don’t engage the handbrake

Did you know that activating the handbrake and leaving it engaged for an extended period can result in your brake pads getting stuck on the disc or drums? When this happens, it can be challenging to get your car to stop the next time you take it out for a drive. If you are concerned about your car rolling over when your handbrake is not activated, consider using a piece of wood or wheel chocks, or even a brick to prevent it from rolling or leave the car in first gear.

Cover your car

Covering your vehicle will prevent your paint from accidental scrapes, dust, and UV ray damage to your interior as well as tires. Car covers work exceptionally well when the car is stored inside a garage or shed. If you are storing your vehicle outside, you’ll need to invest in a weather-resistant cover.

AAMCO Minnesota Trusted Auto Repair Service

If you are planning to store your vehicle for a while, or your vehicle has been unused for a while, it is advisable that you perform an auto maintenance service to ensure it is in good working order. Our top mechanics at AAMCO Minnesota will advise you on the best ways to keep your car safe in storage. They will also perform any necessary auto repair on your car before you begin using it after storage. We are a leading transmission expert in Minnesota, as well as an expert in car-related issues. Some of our services include suspension system repair and maintenance, brake service, battery maintenance, engine tune-up service, regular car maintenance, and many more.

Are you planning on putting your car in storage for a while? Call or visit your local AAMCO Minnesota auto maintenance center, and let our mechanics service your vehicle for extended storage. They will also advise you on the best practices keeping your car healthy while in storage.

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Not Driving As Much? 6 Things You Can Do To Maintain Your Car When Driving Less

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