how long can a car sit without being driven

It happens to the best of us. Life gets busy, you start working from home, or maybe you have a second vehicle that just doesn’t see the road very often. Before you know it, your car has been sitting in the driveway or garage for weeks, maybe even months. This leads many to wonder, how long can a car sit without being driven before it starts to have problems?

While modern cars are built to be reliable, they are also designed to be used regularly. Letting a vehicle sit for extended periods can lead to a surprising number of issues, some minor and some that can leave you with a hefty repair bill. The general rule of thumb is that you should try to drive your car every couple of weeks, but the exact timeline depends on several factors.

The Real Answer to How Long Can a Car Sit Without Being Driven

There isn’t a single, universal number of days that applies to every car. However, most mechanics would agree that after about one month of sitting completely stationary, you can expect to encounter some potential problems. After two months, the risks increase significantly. The main culprits are your battery, tires, and fluids, all of which can degrade from lack of use.

What Happens When a Car Sits Too Long?

Your car’s battery slowly discharges even when the engine is off, powering things like the clock and security system. After a few weeks, it may not have enough juice to start the engine. Your tires can develop flat spots from bearing the vehicle’s weight in the same position, leading to a bumpy ride and premature wear. Fluids, especially gasoline, can break down and absorb moisture, potentially clogging fuel lines and injectors.

Simple Steps to Keep Your Idle Car Healthy

The good news is that you can prevent most of these issues with a little preparation. If you know your car will be parked for more than two weeks, take these steps. First, fill up the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent degradation. Second, consider using a battery tender or trickle charger to maintain the battery’s charge. Finally, if possible, take your car for a good 20-30 minute drive at least once every two weeks. This drive should get the engine fully up to temperature, which recharges the battery, circulates all the fluids, and helps keep the tires from developing flat spots.

By being proactive and giving your car a little attention even when it’s not in daily use, you can ensure it’s ready to go whenever you are, saving you from unexpected headaches and repair costs down the road.