Protect Your Parked Vehicle from Failures in Eight Steps

Within the scope of measures taken due to coronavirus, vehicle use has fallen. There was a serious risk of failure for vehicles that remain parked and not used for a long time.

Özgecan Çakıcı, Director of Total Turkey Marketing Technical Services, said that it is not difficult to keep vehicle equipment undamaged and ensure that the parts have a longer life. Çakıcı said, “It is possible to protect a vehicle from breakdowns with simple steps to follow regardless of brand and model. The more time it takes to keep the vehicle parked, the more preparation is required. Things to do for a two-to three-month park period are quite easy. However, if it is over six months, engine water seals can dry out and different malfunctions may occur. If the drivers cannot start their vehicles despite all the precautions taken, Total Quartz Auto Care can come to the expert service center after the quarantine process has ended, and complete all maintenance and repair operations safely. ” Çakıcı listed the steps to be followed as follows:

1. Run every ten days

Even if you do not use your vehicle, you should start it at least once every ten days so that the engine and other mechanical elements do not lose functionality.

2. Check fluid levels

Check the oil, coolant and brake fluid levels and make sure there are no leaks. You can easily detect any leaks by looking at the bottom of the vehicle and the ground where it is parked.

3. Keep the fuel tank full

The fuel tank must be full in a stationary vehicle. This is because a full tank will create less space in the space that causes fuel evaporation. The more full the tank, the less space for evaporation and the easy restart of the vehicle.

4. Disconnect battery

Starting the vehicle every 10 days (ideally once a week) helps to extend the life of the battery as much as possible. However, a battery connected to an idle vehicle means battery consumption even if the engine is not started at all. Therefore, the battery must be disconnected in order to prevent the battery from discharging completely and to prolong its life.

5. Check tire pressure

Check tire pressure to prevent deformation caused by misuse. If the tire pressures are not suitable, the tire pressures should be brought to the proper range before you start driving normally.

6. Maintain interior equipment

When the engine is running, it is recommended that all electronic and mechanical control systems (door locks, opening and closing windows, air conditioning, etc.) are checked at least once every two weeks and that they are working. All these systems are mobile systems, when they are moved periodically, they are prevented from being damaged due to long-term waiting.

7. Cover your vehicle with a protective cover

It is recommended to use a thick, durable protective cover to protect your vehicle from the weather. In this way, the outer surface is protected against various weather conditions and elements such as any stains.

8. Apply car polish

Finally, apply car polish to protect your car's paint. The polish will hold the paint better.