While these measures are crucial in slowing the spread of the virus, your car is sitting idle in the driveway or garage. Less driving means less gas usage, but it also comes with some hidden risks—like a weak battery, rodent infestations, and parts that could rust over time.

To keep your vehicle in good shape during this period, here are some simple steps you can take to maintain it while it’s not in regular use.

Drive It at Least Once a Week

Even if you're not going far, it's important to drive your car for at least 20 minutes each week. This helps keep the engine running smoothly and prevents several issues:

• It keeps the alternator working properly.
• It maintains the battery charge.
• It circulates oil and fluids to prevent them from settling or hardening.
• It prevents brake rotors from rusting by keeping them moving.
• It stops belts from drying out and cracking.
• It avoids flat spots on your tires by keeping them rotating.

This advice also applies to electric and hybrid vehicles. Even though they don’t need gas, their batteries can still lose charge if left unused for too long. Consider using a trickle charger or removing the battery if you won't be driving for an extended time.

Keep the Car Clean Inside and Out

How well you've maintained your car after winter and where you store it will affect how much cleaning it needs now. Leaving it uncovered in the driveway can lead to UV damage, bird droppings, tree sap, and dirt buildup. Plus, there's always the risk of salt and grime from previous drives.

Start by cleaning the interior thoroughly. Use a microfiber cloth and a solution made of 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water. Avoid bleach-based cleaners, as they can harm fabrics and surfaces. Make sure to wipe down all touchpoints like the steering wheel, seats, armrests, and center console.

For the exterior, try to park in the shade or use a weatherproof cover. If that’s not possible, give your car a quick wash or spot clean regularly to prevent dirt and debris from damaging the paint.

Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach, hydrogen peroxide, or ammonia, as they can damage your car’s screens, upholstery, and other sensitive areas.

Check Your Tires Regularly

If your car sits for a month or longer, your tires can develop flat spots. Cold temperatures and low tire pressure make this problem worse. To avoid it, check your tire pressure often and inflate them to the recommended PSI found on the driver’s side door jamb.

Don’t Leave the Parking Brake On

Leaving the parking brake engaged for too long can cause the brake pads to stick to the rotors, leading to rust. While driving helps reduce this issue, it’s safer to leave the parking brake off if you’re not driving frequently.

Look for Signs of Pests

Rats, mice, and squirrels love to find cozy places to nest—your car’s engine compartment is a prime location. These pests can chew through wires and damage vital components, making it hard to start your car later.

If you’re not driving often, open the hood and check for nests. Also, inspect around the wheels and under the car for signs of rodent activity.

Plan for Long-Term Storage

If you expect your car to sit for months, treat it like a seasonal vehicle. In addition to regular cleaning, consider these steps:

• Change the oil before storage.
• Fill the gas tank completely.
• Add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline from degrading.
• Check and top off all fluids to protect gaskets and hoses.

Many states still consider car maintenance essential, so you can get help if needed. DaSilva’s Auto Body offers “No Touch” services to keep your car in top condition during the pandemic. If you need maintenance, reach out to our Naugatuck location today.

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