Driving Your Car Less? Here’s How to Avoid These Auto Repairs

More people are working from home than ever before; which can lead to less time driving. You may associate auto repairs with more frequent driving, but leaving a car parked more than usual comes with its own set of maintenance and possible auto repair needs. Luckily, there are ways to ensure your car stays in as good of shape as possible while you’re staying close to home. And if you’re worried about your car, bring it in to an AAMCO Boise auto repair shop and our mechanics will ensure all essential systems are in working order.

Take a Drive Once a Week to Keep Your Battery Healthy

One of the biggest concerns with leaving a car parked for extended periods of time is keeping the battery charged. The reason behind this is that your battery actually charges while you drive, not while the car is sitting stationary. Plus, if you have any problems with your car’s electrical system, it can gradually drain your battery while it sits. If you take at least one drive a week, you should have no problems keeping your car battery charged.

But Avoid Short Drives that Won’t Fully Charge Your Battery

Bear in mind, if your drives tend to be pretty short, maybe just going to and from the grocery store, your battery won’t have enough time to charge fully. As much as possible, try taking at least a 20-30-minute drive to ensure you get enough charge. If your battery is a bit older, a trickle charger could also help keep your battery healthy while it sits parked for extended periods of time.

Take a Drive Every Week or Two to Keep Parts Lubricated

A lesser-known reason to drive your car from time to time is for lubrication. Many essential systems in your car use fluid to keep parts lubricated and to help them function. By driving your car, not just letting it sit in neutral, you’re allowing that fluid to fully circulate through those systems. This will help keep them healthier.

Your Engine, Transmission, and Brakes All Benefit from Adequate Lubrication

If that seems to include most of the key systems in your car, you’re not wrong! All three of those systems rely heavily on oil or fluid to operate fully and stay lubricated. That means they’ll all operate better if that fluid is able to cycle through the system on a regular basis.

Pay Attention to Where You Park Your Car

Where do you leave your car when it’s not in use? There’s a big difference between a garage or carport and parking on the street. Not only does the street leave your car exposed to other drivers, but it also leaves your car exposed to the weather and changes in temperature and other conditions. Whether the sun is out or a storm is coming, these can all add wear to your car’s exterior and working parts.

The Less Exposed to the Elements the Better

Whenever possible, parking in a garage or carport is best. Not only does it protect your car’s exterior from the sun, but it’s also safe from hail or strong winds. However, if those aren’t options, having a cover for your car can do wonders to keep it protected from the elements.

Keep Your Gas Tank At least Three-Quarters Full

This last one may be unexpected, but it’s a good idea not to let your car sit with a too-empty gas tank. In general, the fuller the better, but as a guideline, you should try to keep the tank at least three quarters of the way full.

Empty Space Allows Moisture to Build Up

Simply put, when there’s empty space in your gas tank, it can allow moisture to accumulate in there, which can cause problems with your fuel system. It won’t necessarily cause catastrophic problems for your car but you may notice drivability issues and it can increase wear on parts of your car.

Need a New Nampa Auto Repair Shop? Call AAMCO!

If your car needs help, come in to any AAMCO location and our expert mechanics will help diagnose and repair any problem you’re having. Driving habits have changed a lot the last year and we understand the unique problems that can arise in your car because of those new habits. No matter what you’re encountering with your car, we’ve got you covered.

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