How to maintain a rarely used car
Give your rarely used car the attention that it deserves and here is how.
For many of us, our car is our pride and joy. However, life takes over, and more often than not, we neglect our vehicles. Neglecting our car is not a smart thing to do. Especially, if we have a rarely used car. There are many reasons why this would happen. Nowadays, public transportation is constantly improving so we are more inclined to use it. In some cities, parking can be an absolute nightmare and that is why we often end using a car service or just grabbing a cab. And of course, let’s not forget those instances if we have two cars. Consequently, one will be used less. In any case, the maintenance of a seldom-used vehicle is just as important as maintaining one that is frequently used.
Why you cannot neglect your rarely used car
Both car repair and maintenance are very important for your vehicle. You might think you are sparing your car and saving it if you don’t use it often. Yet, this type of mindset can be highly contra-productive. That is why we are sharing with you a few simple tips that you can follow and extend your car’s lifespan.
Follow your service schedule
Can you delay your car checkups if you don’t use your car on a regular basis? The answer is absolutely not. Even a slight delay can provoke negative consequences. Your vehicle checkups should be performed after a certain time span or after driving a specific number of mileages. Of course, this type of requirement is done with good reason. Many car components deteriorate with time and if you don’t get them checked out you will have a big problem on your hands. If you want to avoid handling often car breaks, follow your service schedule to a tee.
If you can, have storage space for your rarely used car
It is important to shelter your vehicle from outside elements. Certainly, some don’t have the luxury of having a garage or some other similar space. Still, if you have it make sure you used it without exception. Snow, sun, the cold, and other elements can do severe damage over time. So, make it propriety to store your precious vehicle safely. If nothing else, install a roof box in front of your home and park your car underneath it. This way you will have protection from the rain and snow. As well as sun rays and other weather elements.
Put your garage to good use and always protect your vehicle.
Keep your car nice and clean
If you understand the importance of the common upkeep of your car, you will certainly understand the importance of keeping your car clean. Cleanliness is equally important on the outside and on the inside of your car. Dirt on the outside of your vehicle can be surprisingly damaging. Especially on its bottom. If stuck on it for a long period of time it can cause rust formation, which is of course one of the worst things that can happen. On the other hand, filth inside your vehicle can attract pesky rodents and other unwelcome car guests. Not to mention, bad smells are unavoidable if your car is not cleaned on a regular basis. So, make sure your car is sparkling inside and out.
Take it out for a spin
We already mentioned that very often there is a misconception that if you aren’t using your car you are spearing it from the drama that the roads can cause. This might be true but just to a certain extend. Your car engine is designed to work and to give you a lift when you need it. Not to sit steel in your garage. That is why at least once a week you must take your car out for a ride. This way the oils will circulate within the engine and other components. In addition, the battery will get topped off with a little extra energy. If you don’t have the time, you must make the time. Just a few minutes a week of your car working can make a big difference in its maintenance.
The engine of your car is its heart. Make sure it is always in perfect condition.
Don’t forget about your battery
Your battery will preserve its energy while the car is not driven. That would be highly incorrect. Your car battery discharges small amounts of energy at a slow pace. Consequently, if your car is at a standstill for a long time your battery might end up emptying itself. As a result, you will need to change it or get a jump start on your vehicle. You can give your car a little idle, but for best results take out your car for a drive. For best results, put on your favorite tunes and drive your car at least 15 minutes a week.
Tires also appreciate a little movement
As a car owner, you certainly know that checking your tire pressure at the gas station should be a standard thing. Also, top off your tires with extra air when needed. When your car isn’t used very often these sorts of details tend to get overlooked. Hence, you will have a problem coming your way.
Just like the engine, the tires of your car also like to be taken out on a joy ride.
There is also another issue if tires remain in one spot for a long time. The entire weight of your vehicle will put pressure only on one segment of your tires. This type of pressure is not recommended. Just like your engine and your entire car, your tires are meant to move. So, give them the treatment they deserve.
Conclusion
In the end, it is obvious that a rarely used car shouldn’t even exist. Your beloved automobile should be taken out on a date by you at least once a week. Of course, don’t rush the process. If possible, go out on the highway and make it a 15 to 30-minute drive. This will be some sort of a SPA treatment for your car. And while you are at it, don’t forget to keep that gas tank full. Happy and save driving!
Meta Description: Do you have a rarely used car and you have no idea how to upkeep it? Here a few simple tips that will resolve your problem.
