Tips for keeping your car in good condition during the pause caused by the state of alarm

Due to the state of alarm caused by the coronavirus crisis, many of us have had to leave our cars parked. This measure is due to the restriction of movement ordered by the government, which we must respect in order to get through this health crisis as soon as possible. But having the car parked for a period of time can come at a cost, because a parked car still drains its battery, and its various components can deteriorate from lack of use.

One of the major problems is, precisely, battery wear. The battery keeps consuming energy, although very slowly. This can mean that when we go to take the car after a long period of time, the battery is flat and the car won’t start. To avoid this, you should start the car roughly every 10 days. Take advantage of that moment to move it, even if only for a very short journey.

In this way, the battery will hold its charge and it will be prevented from discharging due to lack of use. With that short drive, the car’s mechanics can be kept responsive, the fluids circulate, and the engine remains properly lubricated. This is an important point that, despite the current circumstances, must be taken into account.

Check the tyre pressure

The tyres are important even when the car has to stay parked. All tyres lose a small amount of air, and over time the pressure drops and the tyre can end up deflating completely. When a tyre is deflated, the rim touches the ground and the weight of the car can cause deformation of the axles and of the rim itself. If the car is to be parked for several days, it is essential to keep the tyres at the maximum pressure recommended by the manufacturer to avoid problems. And of course, when moving the car, one of the first things to do is check the condition and pressure of the tyres.

Keep the fuel tank full

This may seem illogical, since we have fuel there that we are not going to use. But in reality, it is advisable for the tank to be completely full, as this prevents the fuel from evaporating. This greatly reduces the risk of build-up of petrol or diesel vapours and keeps the tank in proper, working condition.

Change the car’s fluids

This is not necessary if the car will be out of use for a short time, but if the immobilisation lasts a long time, it is worth checking whether the fluids, from engine oil to antifreeze and brake fluid or power steering fluid, may have been affected. This can happen in extreme heat or cold. For this reason, before starting the car and using it normally, it is advisable to change all of them. Once the fluids have been replaced, the car should be left running for a few minutes so that the fluids expand and circulate through the entire system.

Protect the bodywork

If the car is outdoors, it is advisable to leave the bodywork and interior thoroughly clean. Dust will build up on the car, of course, but that is all it will be: dust. To protect the bodywork, cover the car with a protective cover. If it is outside, it is better that it is durable and waterproof, which will provide greater protection. Indoors there are other solutions, which offer lighter protection and will still help preserve the bodywork.

Above all, try not to use the car during this period of alarm, which for now will last one month. That said, if you can, do go to where it is parked and start it every ten days, to avoid unnecessary wear. Always take all due precautions and only use it for the strictly necessary time.