How Often to Start a Car in Storage: A Comprehensive Guide to Keeping Your Vehicle in Top Shape

blog 2025-01-27 0Browse 0

When it comes to storing a car for an extended period, one of the most common questions that arise is, “How often should I start the car to keep it in good condition?” The answer to this question isn’t as straightforward as one might think, as it depends on various factors such as the duration of storage, the type of vehicle, and the environmental conditions. In this article, we’ll explore the different perspectives on how often to start a car in storage, and provide you with a detailed guide to ensure your vehicle remains in top shape.

The Importance of Starting a Car in Storage

Starting a car in storage is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, it helps to keep the battery charged. A car battery can lose its charge over time, especially if the vehicle is not driven regularly. By starting the car periodically, you can prevent the battery from dying and ensure that it remains functional when you need it.

Secondly, starting the car helps to circulate the fluids within the engine. Engine oil, coolant, and other fluids can settle and degrade over time if the car is not used. By running the engine, you can keep these fluids moving, which helps to prevent corrosion and maintain the engine’s performance.

Lastly, starting the car can help to prevent the tires from developing flat spots. When a car sits in one position for an extended period, the weight of the vehicle can cause the tires to flatten in certain areas. By driving the car, even for a short distance, you can help to redistribute the weight and prevent flat spots from forming.

How Often Should You Start a Car in Storage?

The frequency with which you should start a car in storage depends on several factors, including the duration of storage, the type of vehicle, and the environmental conditions. Here are some general guidelines to follow:

Short-Term Storage (Less Than 1 Month)

If you’re storing your car for less than a month, you may not need to start it at all. Modern cars are designed to withstand short periods of inactivity, and the battery should remain charged for at least a few weeks. However, if you’re concerned about the battery, you can start the car once every two weeks and let it run for about 10-15 minutes to keep the battery charged.

Medium-Term Storage (1-3 Months)

For medium-term storage, it’s recommended to start the car once every two weeks. This will help to keep the battery charged and the fluids circulating. Additionally, you should consider driving the car for a short distance (around 10-15 minutes) to prevent flat spots on the tires.

Long-Term Storage (More Than 3 Months)

For long-term storage, it’s essential to take more proactive measures to ensure the car remains in good condition. In addition to starting the car once every two weeks, you should also consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep the battery charged. You may also want to elevate the car on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tires and reduce the strain on the suspension.

Additional Tips for Storing a Car

In addition to starting the car periodically, there are several other steps you can take to ensure your vehicle remains in top shape during storage:

Clean the Car: Before storing your car, make sure to give it a thorough cleaning, both inside and out. This will help to prevent dirt and debris from accumulating and causing damage over time.
Change the Oil: If you’re storing your car for an extended period, it’s a good idea to change the oil before putting it into storage. Old oil can contain contaminants that can cause corrosion and damage to the engine.
Fill the Gas Tank: To prevent moisture from accumulating in the gas tank, fill it up before storing the car. You can also add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading over time.
Use a Car Cover: If you’re storing your car outdoors, consider using a car cover to protect it from the elements. A good-quality car cover will help to prevent dirt, dust, and moisture from damaging the paint and interior.
Check the Tire Pressure: Make sure to check the tire pressure before storing the car. Underinflated tires can develop flat spots more easily, so it’s important to keep them properly inflated.

Q: Can I start my car in storage without driving it? A: Yes, you can start your car in storage without driving it. However, it’s recommended to let the engine run for at least 10-15 minutes to ensure the battery stays charged and the fluids circulate properly.

Q: How long can a car sit without being started? A: The length of time a car can sit without being started depends on several factors, including the condition of the battery and the environmental conditions. In general, a car can sit for about 2-4 weeks without being started before the battery begins to lose its charge.

Q: Should I disconnect the battery when storing my car? A: If you’re storing your car for an extended period, it’s a good idea to disconnect the battery to prevent it from losing its charge. However, if you plan to start the car periodically, you can leave the battery connected.

Q: Can I store my car without starting it at all? A: While it’s possible to store a car without starting it, it’s not recommended. Starting the car periodically helps to keep the battery charged, the fluids circulating, and the tires in good condition. If you don’t start the car at all, you may run into issues when you try to use it again.

Q: What should I do if my car won’t start after storage? A: If your car won’t start after storage, the first thing to check is the battery. It may have lost its charge and need to be recharged or replaced. You should also check the fuel system, as old fuel can cause starting issues. If you’re unable to diagnose the problem, it’s best to consult a professional mechanic.