Not every vehicle is a daily driver. Maybe you have a weekend car, a classic you cherish, a work truck used only now and then, or a second vehicle that mostly stays parked. It might seem like a car that sits would have fewer problems, but in reality, vehicles that are rarely driven face their own set of challenges, and a little care keeps them ready to go.
When a car sits for long stretches, the battery slowly discharges and can go dead or lose its ability to hold a charge. Tires can develop flat spots and lose pressure. Fluids can degrade, moisture can build up in the oil and exhaust, and fuel can begin to go stale over months. Rubber components dry out, and pests sometimes find their way into an undisturbed engine bay. All of this happens quietly while the car appears to be doing nothing.
A few habits help a great deal. Starting and driving the vehicle periodically, keeping the tank reasonably full, maintaining tire pressure, and using a battery maintainer all extend the life of a seldom-driven car. Before you rely on it for a trip, a quick inspection can catch anything that developed while it was parked.
At Home Town Auto Care in Franklin, we can check over a vehicle that has been sitting, address any issues, and help you keep it in good shape for whenever you need it. If you have a car that spends more time parked than driven, bring it by our Franklin shop for a checkup.
