What happens if a car is not driven for months? Find out what can go wrong if your car sits unused and the minimum you should drive your car to keep it safe and road-ready.
What Can Go Wrong If Your Car Sits Unused?
Owing to a diverse list of reasons, your vehicle may not be getting much use and instead, it’s left sitting in a garage or parked for a long time. This could be due to extended travel, working from home, buying a new car, or even relying on public transport.
Leaving your car unused for weeks or months might seem harmless, but inactivity can cause problems that affect safety, performance, and even the value of your car.
What could happen to your car if you leave it undriven for too long?
Issues can stem from not driving your vehicle for a long time and leaving the engine turned off. Here are some of the key issues that could happen if your car is left sitting in the driveway for too long. Don't lose time getting back in the driving seat; ensure you prepare your vehicle properly and take necessary precautions for safety.
The car battery may drain if it isn’t charged regularly. Without driving, the alternator can’t recharge it, and over time the charge is lost. When the battery is flat, the car won’t start, and you’ll need to jump-start or recharge it.
To avoid this, you can:
- Drive your car every couple of weeks.
- Use a trickle charger to keep the battery topped up.
- Disconnect the battery if storing the car for an extended period.
When a car sits unused for long periods, the weight of the vehicle presses on the same part of the tyres, which can cause flat spots. Low tyre pressure makes this worse, and if left unchecked, the tyres may need to be replaced.
Make sure to:
- Check tyre pressure regularly.
- Move the car slightly every few weeks.
- Use wheel blocks or stands if storing long-term.
Moisture builds up on brake rotors when a car is left unused, leading to rust. Brake pads can also stick to the rotors, which can cause grinding or squeaking when you eventually drive.
To prevent brake issues:
- Drive your car occasionally to keep the pads and rotors moving.
- Check for signs of corrosion before driving again.
Fuel begins to degrade after a few weeks, and within 3–6 months it can cause problems such as blocked fuel lines and damage to the fuel pump. Diesel can last longer than petrol, but both eventually become unstable.
You can:
- Add a fuel stabiliser to protect the system.
- Keep the tank topped up to reduce condensation.
- Drain the tank if storing the car for an extended period.
Engine oil, brake fluid, and coolant can break down over time if the car is not driven. This can lead to corrosion, reduced lubrication, or damage to engine components.
Make sure you:
- Check and top up fluids regularly.
- Replace old oil before storage.
- Inspect for leaks before driving again.
If a car is left parked outside without protection, moisture, salt, and dirt can accumulate on the bodywork and undercarriage, leading to corrosion. Rust can spread quickly and cause long-term damage.
Protect your vehicle by:
- Washing and waxing before storage.
- Keeping the car covered or stored in a dry garage.
Rodents and insects may find their way into a car that sits unused for long periods, especially if it’s stored outside or in a garage. They can chew wires, damage upholstery, and create safety hazards.
Prevent infestation by:
- Blocking exhaust pipes and air intakes.
- Keeping the interior clean.
- Checking the vehicle regularly for signs of pests.
When a car sits without moving, suspension parts, seals, and belts can dry out, crack, or wear unevenly. This can lead to costly repairs once the vehicle is back on the road.
It’s important to:
- Drive your car at least every few weeks.
- Listen for unusual noises when restarting.
Safety and Insurance Considerations
Even if your car is not being driven, it’s important to keep insurance active. Cancelling insurance while the vehicle is stored could leave you exposed if theft, fire, or accidental damage occurs.
Check with your insurer to make sure long-term storage is covered.
What's the Minimum I Should Drive My Car?
It’s recommended that vehicles are driven every two to three weeks for at least 10 miles at mixed speeds, including over 50mph where possible.
Short drives help:
- Recharge the battery.
- Circulate fluids.
- Prevent rust on brakes.
- Keep the tyres from developing flat spots.
Simply starting the engine and leaving it idling is not enough; the vehicle needs to move to keep systems in good condition.
How do I prepare my car for storage?
If you know your car will sit unused for months, proper preparation is essential.
- Clean Inside and Out – dirt and moisture can damage paintwork and interiors.
- Leave Handbrake Off – to avoid the brakes seizing, use wheel chocks instead.
- Raise the Vehicle – if storing for a long time, use stands to relieve tyre pressure.
- Check Oil and Coolant – replace old fluids and top up as needed.
- Disconnect the Battery – or use a trickle charger to keep it healthy.
When A Car Is Not Driven For Months: Final Thoughts
Leaving a car unused for an extended period can lead to a wide range of issues, from a dead battery to rusted brakes, flat spots on tyres, and degraded fuel. With a little preparation and regular checks, you can avoid these problems and ensure your vehicle is safe and ready to drive when you need it.
If you require annual servicing, choose a garage that you can trust. Follow the link below to contact a car service mechanic in Watford.
