What Happens If A Car Is Parked For A Long Time?

 

When so many transport options are available, it is only natural to park your car at home to avoid fuel charges, parking tickets and most of all - getting all stressed out in the traffic. But if you don’t use your car for a long time, you are unknowingly damaging it. Here are some of the things that can potentially destroy your car if you park it for too long.

Also Read: At What Mileage Do Cars Start Having Problems?

Worn Out Batteries

Batteries can only retain charge for a specific time. If you don’t charge it for a long time, the cells start to degrade and may eventually fail. Your battery is charged every time your engine starts. If you don’t use your car for too long, the battery will be deprived of its juice and may not even turn on after a couple of sedentary months.

Bad Tires

If you drive your car normally even once a week, your tires should be in shape. However, if you don’t roll them often, they may get warped. If a car is in a stationary position for too long, the part of the tire that has all the weight will eventually warp and become flat. Furthermore, it can also be dangerous if you drive after re-inflating them because, over time, bubbles can form inside the tires which can cause a blow when you drive them.

Moisture Damage

A little ambient moisture never hurts. But if a car is parked for too long, it can lead to excessive moisture build-up in areas like the corners, fluid reservoir and the gas task. This can lead to corrosion of important components that can render your car inoperable. It also compromises the safety and efficiency of your car.

Paint

If you park the car in the garage then this might not be a problem. But if you park your car outside then the environment can wreak havoc on the paint job. Sun is the greatest enemy of paint. If you park your car outside without covering it, some parts of the body may appear to have a lighter hue than the rest of it. It ruins the look of your car. Just don’t park it outside for too long. If you do – cover it and make sure to park it in a cold place.

Damages the Fuel Pump

This is the most vulnerable part of your car. It can easily break down under corrosion and if no fuel flows through your car for an extended period, the components can malfunction. You might even replace the whole thing in certain cases. If you do experience a fuel pump problem, it is not easy to diagnose it. You will have to take it to a seasoned mechanic who can properly assess the situation.

Bottom Line

In a nutshell, it is a bad idea to let your car stay idle for too long. It is a machine that is built for running. If you park it for too long, it can have severe consequences. It can destroy the body, the internal components as well as the exhaust system. If your Vauxhall Astra exhaust system is having trouble, check here to have it fixed.