Move it or Lose It (Dormant Vehicles)
August 1, 2021
When it comes to your vehicle, driving it too much can cause some issues. But what about not driving a vehicle enough? That has consequences as well.
Here are a few things that can happen if a vehicle isn't driven enough. When the engine doesn't operate, the oil isn't lubricating. That means some mechanisms that need periodic lubrication aren't getting it. And oil that sits around breaks down over time. In fact, some experts say you should change oil more often if your vehicle sits in the driveway than if you drive it regularly.
You've heard that expression, "Take it on the highway and blow out the engine.” Well, carbon buildup used to be a problem in older vehicles. But the real culprit these days is moisture that builds up from combustion if your vehicle never gets hot enough to burn it off. That water vapor can mix with oil and cause sludge to form. There are many vehicle systems (battery, exhaust system, engine seals, etc.) that benefit from driving your vehicle at its optimal operating temperature for a while.
Spark plugs can deteriorate unless they are fired up. The gas tank can rust from the inside if the metal is exposed from not having fuel in it. Rodents and insects may see a sitting vehicle as a luxury hotel. Brakes can rust after sitting around without being used. Seals and gaskets can dry out.
One wise thing to do is check the operating manual. Some will spell out a maintenance schedule for vehicles that aren't driven regularly.
One suggestion? Discuss your vehicle's maintenance with your service advisor. Let him or her know how often you drive the vehicle and what you use it for. Then, you can come up with a maintenance schedule tailored for you, one that might not be covered in the owner's manual.
If you do have a vehicle that's been sitting around for a long time, it may be wise to have it towed to your service facility rather than trying to drive it with brakes that may not work, spark plugs that may not fire reliably and other systems that may compromise your safety and those of others on the road.
You may think it's great to have a low-mileage vehicle that you've barely driven, but a complicated, sophisticated machine such as a car, SUV or truck needs regular attention to keep it running safely… and reliably.
Spartan Tire Brighton
4880 Old U.S. 23
Brighton, Michigan 48114
810-355-4388
Need Service?
More articles from Spartan Tire Brighton
Road Ready (Trip Inspection)
April 14, 2024
Maybe you've been cooped up for a while and are yearning for a change of scenery. Or maybe you need to visit a relative who lives far away. You choose not to fork out the big bucks for airline tickets, so it's time for a road trip. Make sure you're road ready by having your vehicle professiona... More
Feeling Powerless (Why Is My Battery Light On?)
April 7, 2024
When one of your vehicles warning lights comes on, the first thing that comes to mind is, Oh, no, whats wrong now? When its the battery light, it means theres something wrong with your vehicles battery or charging system. And because both are important for your vehicle to work properly, its a go... More
Slipping into Fall (Driving with ABS Brakes)
March 31, 2024
As the weather changes over from hot to colder, drivers will have to deal with more slippery streets. And it's important to know how to drive with the brakes you have on your vehicle. In the 1970s, anti-lock braking systems (ABS) started to be installed on vehicles and they've been a game chang... More