A vehicle can remain safely stationary for a particular period of time without incurring issues, but beyond that experts warn of faults with batteries, tyres, fuel and internal components
An industry insider has warned Brits heading abroad this summer who don’t take their cars with them that leaving them stationary can cause a plethora of pricey problems.
According to car valuation experts at BigWantsYourCar.com, a vehicle can remain safely unused for a particular period of time without incurring issues. But beyond that, drivers can encounter faults with batteries, tyres, fuel and internal components.
While most drivers associate battery issues with the winter months, experts warn that hotter weather conditions can be just as damaging. The company’s spokesperson explained: “In high temperatures, battery fluid can evaporate faster, and that affects the overall health of your battery.
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“Combine that with the fact that modern cars continue drawing power even when they’re switched off, and it’s easy to see how a battery could go flat in just two weeks.”
Tyres are also at risk when a vehicle is left untouched for too long. Staying in the same position for weeks can cause flat spots, especially when the pressure is low. “Tyres can start to deform after a few weeks, and you may feel a thumping sensation when you drive off. In more extreme cases, it can shorten the life of the tyre,” BigWantsYourCar’s spokesperson added.
Heat presents another problem, increasing the chances of the handbrake sticking. The expert warned: “If you’re leaving your car while away, it’s safer to park on level ground, leave it in gear, and use chocks instead of keeping the handbrake on the whole time.”
Fuel is another issue. Petrol in particular starts to deteriorate surprisingly quickly. “Fuel that’s been sitting in the tank for too long can lead to rough starts, reduced performance, or even engine knocking. Diesel lasts a little longer but isn’t immune, especially if condensation builds up in the tank and causes microbial growth,” they advised.
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Even without being driven, cars can experience wear. “Fluids can separate, seals can dry out, and if the engine isn’t turned over for several weeks, there’s a small risk of internal corrosion, especially in humid summer conditions,” the spokesperson added.
The spokesperson concluded by saying: “If you’re going away for a week or two, your car should be absolutely fine. But if you’re leaving it parked up for longer — especially in hot weather — you could run into battery problems, tyre issues, or even fuel degradation.”
To avoid the aforementioned issues, experts suggest filling the fuel tank before leaving to reduce condensation, slightly inflating the tyres and considering a trickle charger or disconnecting the car’s battery.
While for even longer absences, it helps to avoid using the handbrake and, where possible, ask a friend or family member to occasionally run your car for you.
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