Ways and Tips for Caring for a Car that is Rarely Used
In the current pandemic, many offices are implementing WFH or Work From Home, thus, vehicles that are usually used for commuting, such as cars, are becoming less frequently used. Moreover, we also have to limit going outside the house. Even though they are rarely used, it does not mean that cars do not require maintenance.
In fact, cars that are rarely used can actually lead to new problems. Some damages that can be found include electrical components or even parts of the engine. This is because vehicle components are designed to move.
Car Checks Before Leaving for a Long Time
To keep the car in prime condition even if it hasn't been used for a long time, there are several ways to do so. Here are some tips for maintaining rarely used cars that you can follow.
Check the Battery
The main component that should not be overlooked is the battery. Used to supply voltage to all electrical systems in the car, when the car is not used, the battery's performance can actually decline. This is because a rarely used car still requires electricity for several components. Additionally, the battery's charge that is not optimally maintained due to infrequent use will cause the battery to drain and drop.
To maintain battery performance, you can check the level of battery water, so that the voltage can last longer. However, if the car is not started for a long time, it is better to disconnect the battery connector so that the battery power does not run out.
Check the Tires
In addition to the battery, the next maintenance for rarely used cars is the tires. Cars that are rarely used or have not moved for a long time can exert continuous pressure on the tires. As a result, the air pressure in the tires will decrease,
If the air pressure decreases, the tires can become flat, and if this condition is left unchecked, the tires will suffer damage, especially in the areas that are bent. Therefore, to keep the car tires in optimal condition, make sure the air pressure is always well maintained.
Warm Up the Engine
To keep the car in optimal condition, a rarely used car should still be started; the car engine should be turned on every day, and it does not need to be on for long, just 5 minutes is enough. This is done so that engine oil can circulate and lubricate the components inside. When the engine is running, the external components can also move.
Check the Oil
Even if the engine is not running, it does not mean that the oil condition is still good. A stationary engine prevents the oil from circulating and lubricating the components inside the vehicle's engine. To address this, you can check the oil condition using the available dipstick; if the oil starts to thicken and its color has changed, you can perform an oil change that meets the car's specifications.
Keep Washing the Car
Lastly, do not forget to keep the car clean. Even though it is rarely used, the car can still accumulate dust, so it is a good idea to wash the car, especially if the car will be left for a long time. The parts that need to be cleaned are not only the exterior but also the interior; clean out any trash that remains inside the car so it does not become a breeding ground for insects.
After washing the car, do not forget to cover it with a cover, especially if the car is stored outside. Choose a cover that will not damage the car's paint or bleed.
Tips for Maintaining Rarely Used Cars for a Long Time
However, if you rarely use the car for a long time, it can trigger various risks and make the vehicle more susceptible to problems. Such as reduced current flow in the battery, quick fading of the car's paint, rust attacks, body rubber becoming brittle, and other issues. Therefore, you must always pay attention to the car's condition if you want to leave it or let it sit for a long time to avoid the above problems and keep the engine and body in good condition when it is used again.
1. Clean the car of all dust and dirt
The first point is quite important, which is to wash the car thoroughly before leaving it for a long time. "So that fine dust, asphalt, oil, grease, or rainwater splashes do not cause dullness or corrosion on the body and components of the car," said Munarwan, an employee at a car wash on Jl. Bukit Cinere, South Jakarta, while checking the cleanliness of a white Daihatsu Terios after washing.
2. Always maintain the aroma in the cabin by providing a car air freshener
Once the car is clean, do not forget to maintain the aroma inside the car by using car air freshener in the cabin. This helps to provide a fresh effect in the closed cabin and also prevents the breeding of germs. However, make sure the cabin is already cleaned using a vacuum.
3. Do not forget to check the condition of the engine and other supporting components
The next point you should do is check the condition of the radiator water, oil, and other lubricants that support the engine components. Do not forget to disconnect the battery terminal to avoid short circuits or reduced battery current. For the fuel tank, it is better to fill it as needed to avoid the car stalling and also to prevent rust in the tank.
4. Try to cover the car with a heat-resistant and waterproof cover when parked outside
If parking outside, try to cover the car with a heat-resistant and waterproof cover to keep the car's paint durable. The wiper rubber should also be positioned hanging, so that the rubber does not stretch or become brittle. Additionally, to avoid getting stuck when the car is used again, try not to pull the handbrake lever and instead use wheel chocks.
With the various maintenance tips for rarely used cars above, it is hoped that after WFH, the car can be used again with optimal performance.
