While these measures are crucial for slowing the spread of COVID-19, your car is now sitting idle in the driveway or garage. Less driving means less gas consumption, but not using your vehicle regularly can also lead to some issues.

From battery drain to rodent infestations and rust forming on parts, there are several things that can go wrong if you leave your car unused for too long. To keep it in good shape until you need it again, here are some tips for maintaining your vehicle during this period of reduced use.

Drive It at Least Once a Week

Even if you’re not making long trips, it’s a good idea to drive your car for at least 20 minutes each week. This helps keep everything running smoothly by:

• Keeping the engine and alternator active
• Maintaining battery charge
• Circulating oil and fluids to prevent them from thickening
• Moving brake components to avoid rust buildup
• Preventing belts from drying out and cracking
• Avoiding flat spots on tires

This advice applies to electric and hybrid vehicles as well. Even though they don’t run on gasoline, their batteries can still lose charge over time if left unused. A trickle charger is a great alternative if you can't drive regularly. You might also consider removing the battery or taking off the wheels if the car will be stored for a long time.

Keep the Interior and Exterior Clean

The condition of your car depends a lot on where you store it and how well you've maintained it after winter. If it's left uncovered in the driveway, it's vulnerable to UV damage, bird droppings, tree sap, dust, and road salt. Cleaning it now is important to protect both the inside and the outside.

Start by disinfecting the cabin—wipe down all surfaces with a microfiber cloth and a solution made of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water. Avoid using bleach-based cleaners, which can damage sensitive materials like leather and suede. For the exterior, use a weatherproof cover or park in the shade. If that’s not possible, give your car a regular wash or spot clean to prevent dirt and grime from damaging the paint.

Never use harsh chemicals like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia, as they can harm your car’s screens and upholstery.

Check Your Tires

If your car sits in one place for a month or longer, your tires may develop flat spots. Cold temperatures and low tire pressure can speed up this process. Make sure to check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the recommended PSI found on the driver’s side door jamb.

Avoid Leaving the Parking Brake Engaged

Leaving the parking brake on for an extended period can cause the brake pads to stick to the rotors, leading to rust. If you won’t be driving often, it’s better to leave the parking brake disengaged to reduce the risk of corrosion.

Watch Out for Pests

Rats, mice, and squirrels love to find cozy places to nest—and your car’s engine compartment is a prime location. These pests can chew through wires and damage internal components, potentially causing serious issues when you try to start your car again.

If you’re not driving your car often, take a few minutes to pop the hood and check for any signs of nests or activity. Also, inspect around the tires and wheel wells for similar signs of intrusion.

Plan for Long-Term Storage

If you're planning to store your car for an extended period, treat it like a seasonal vehicle such as a motorcycle or boat. In addition to cleaning and covering it, make sure to:

• Change the oil
• Fill the gas tank completely
• Add fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation
• Check all fluids and top them up if needed

Many states consider vehicle maintenance an essential service. DaSilva’s Auto Body is currently offering “No Touch” services to help keep your car running smoothly during the pandemic. If you need maintenance or repairs, reach out to our Naugatuck location today to schedule a safe and convenient appointment.

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