Even though the province unveiled a tentative plan for gradually re-opening the economy, normalcy, (or whatever the new normal may be) is a long way off.
With most of us either not working or working from home, our vehicles have not been driven as frequently as usual.
While this is great in terms of the effect on the environment and our wallets, it can negatively affect our vehicles.
Let’s take a look at some things you can do to make sure your vehicle runs smoothly when you go to start it up again.
Tip 1: Drive Your Car Once A Week
These days, you may only leave your home for a quick walk or to get the essentials. Although, there are many apps available where you can get your groceries or essentials delivered directly to your home, so you may not be even leaving your home at all!
When a vehicle remains stagnant for an extended period of time, a major cause of concern is the battery life. Vehicles need to run in order to sustain the battery.
That being said, how often a vehicle should be driven is dependent on a variety of factors. The make and the year of the vehicle, as well as where it is being stored, must be taken into consideration.
Think about it this way: a car made in 2020 being stored in a garage is far better off than a 20-year-old vehicle parked on the street. Batteries are more likely to die in colder temperatures as well, but luckily, the weather has been a lot warmer recently.
When you start up your vehicle, take it out for a small drive, even if it’s to go around the block a few times. While idling your car is better than nothing, it can attain full charge when it is in motion. Driving a vehicle not only keeps the battery healthy, but it also prevents the engine and other parts from drying out. If a vehicle remains stagnant for too long, oil starts to settle, fuels begin to separate and seals dry out. Taking your vehicle out for a drive (even if it’s brief) ensures all the moving parts stay lubricated and in proper working order!
Tip 2: Fill Up Your Gas Tank
You may think to yourself: why should I fill up on gas if I’m not going anywhere?
Topping off your gas tank before parking it for an extended period of time ensures that condensation won’t accumulate in your gas tank. It also stops gasoline fuels from building up to potentially dangerous levels.
Also, gas is pretty cheap right now, so you might as well fill up while prices are low!
Tip 3: Be Mindful of Where Your Car is Parked
In some cases, we don’t have a lot of control over where we can park our vehicles. Avoid parking your vehicle under a tree, especially one that drips sap. Sap can cause immense damage to your paint job.
Parking on grass or soil can cause moisture to travel up into your car’s undercarriage, causing rust. Try to park on gravel or pavement for the most protection.
Tip 4: Once You Start Driving More Frequently, Give Your Vehicle A Once Over
Regular car maintenance during this time is still important, although it may seem unnecessary. Changing oil at the proper time and checking your brakes will go a long way.
Before you begin driving your car frequently again, make sure you give your vehicle a once over to make sure everything works properly. Check the tire pressure, oil and coolant levels and go easy on the brakes.
While most of us are fortunate to be able to leave our vehicles at home, truck drivers are out on the roads ensuring our shelves are stocked with essential items.
Brown’s Fuels has been a reliable fleet fuel supplier since 1997. For more information, send us a message online or give us a call at 1-888-542-7799.