Everybody has been doing their best to prevent the spread of COVID-19 these last two years. The most important thing has been staying at home. Our cars have had to bear the brunt of us not going anywhere. People are facing several problems with their vehicles because of keeping them parked in one place for too long. Schmicko Melbourne, a mobile car detailing and car wash company, recommends taking your car out for a drive at least once weekly. Driving your car weekly has several benefits like:
Keeps the Battery Charged
Your car’s battery can get drained if you don’t use it for over a couple of weeks. Running your vehicle for 20-30 minutes will help charge the battery. Hence, taking your car for a drive at least once a week helps your battery remain in great shape.
Keeps Car Parts Lubricated
Car parts are like body muscles. They need constant movement to stay in good shape. Driving your car once a week will ensure all its moving parts stay properly lubricated. Parts like the pistons and parking brake cables are important for a smooth-running vehicle. When you drive your car and use the brakes, the brake pads will automatically scrub the rust off your rotor, ensuring they function well.
Prevents Tire Damage
When your car is parked for a long time, the vehicle’s weight begins to fall on the tires. You will notice flat spots in the tires when your car is parked in one place for a long time. These flat spots can impact the quality of your drive. While most flat spots are temporary, some can last long if your car is not used for extended periods. That is why it becomes critical to use your vehicle at least once a week.
Prevents Infestations
Any car standing in one place for long becomes a breeding ground for bugs and insects. The insects build their nests in the depths of your vehicle and even damage parts. The humid and dark conditions in the car are perfect for these bugs as they stay protected from the harsh conditions outside. Starting and driving your car at least once a week will keep these insects and rodents away and will prevent other infestations as well.
Keeps Your Mental Health in Check
Staying indoors for long periods can affect your mental health. One of the best ways to deal with this is to start your car and go for a drive. The different scenes you see on the way, the sights on the road, and the people you come across can help improve your mood and make you feel better.
While it is beneficial for the car to take it for a drive at least once a week, there are certain things to keep in mind when you are not driving your car and keeping it in one place.
Keep a Trickle Charger Handy
A trickle charger helps to charge the car’s batteries. It can be plugged into a standard wall socket and attached to the car’s battery terminals. Your car’s batteries will drain if it is not used for a long time. In such times, a trickle charger can help recharge the batteries and start your car.
Watch Where You Park
Moisture from soft surfaces like dirt and grass can travel up into your car’s undercarriage and cause rust. So if you know that you are not going to use your car for long, park it either on the pavement or on gravel where there is little chance of moisture getting into the vehicle.
Be Careful of What You Park Under
Parking your car under a weak tree branch or a tree that drips sap can cause considerable damage. The branch could fall off or the sap could affect the car’s paint, especially during the daytime when the car’s surface is hot.
Top Up Your Fuel Tank
There are two benefits of topping up your fuel tank if you plan to park your vehicle in one place for long. First, a full fuel tank will prevent condensation from accumulating in the tank. Second, it will also prevent the build-up of gasoline fumes to dangerous levels.
Use a Car Cover
You will notice dust and debris on your car when it is parked for long periods. A car cover can protect your car and its paint from this debris and other damaging elements like bright sunshine and heavy rain.
