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Whatever the circumstances, you may have an extra car that rarely gets any mileage. Many people believe that they don’t need to maintain a vehicle that doesn’t travel often, but this misconception can harm the various auto parts. Cars require occasional auto maintenance to run optimally, regardless of how often they’re used. Keep your idle vehicle in good condition with the following tips. 

4 Tips for Maintaining a Rarely Used Vehicle

1. Drive It Occasionally 

Running the vehicle occasionally will help the oil and transmission fluid cycle through the parts and keep the systems lubricated. Also, turning the battery on will prevent it from dying by stimulating its various components and preventing corrosion. Drive the car around the neighborhood or to the grocery store every few weeks to ensure its parts don’t deteriorate due to disuse. 

2. Check the Tire Pressure

Tires lose air over time, and stationary ones aren’t exceptions. The weight of a sitting vehicle adds continuous pressure that causes the tires to develop flat spots.

Extreme temperatures and inclement weather can cause the rubber to crack and degrade. Ensure the tires are filled according to their manual’s recommendations and tighten the valve caps to prevent leaks. Repark the car on different sections of the wheels to prevent uneven wear. 

3. Keep It Protected 

auto maintanenceA sitting car accumulates dust and debris. Storing it in a garage away from the elements is ideal, and a durable cover can further protect it from damage.

If you need to keep the vehicle outside, a cover will protect the tires, paint, and dashboard from UV damage and weather erosion. It can also prevent debris buildup that attracts pests and causes mold growth.

4. Check Fluid Levels

Before leaving a car sitting for an extended period, check its fluid levels. Use a dipstick to ensure there’s enough oil and transmission fluid according to the vehicle’s manual.

Auto maintenance professionals recommend getting an oil change every six months, even for rarely used cars. Sitting fluids can accumulate debris and cause rust to develop. Having the oil changed will ensure the vehicle’s ready when you need it.

 

For reliable auto maintenance and repairs, turn to Kelly’s Auto Repair in Lincoln, NE. Serving Lancaster, Gage, and Otoe counties, this team of professionals will keep your vehicle running at peak performance with cost-effective solutions. They’ll check your rarely used car’s fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery to ensure they’re in good condition. Call (402) 467-4602 to speak with a friendly representative, or visit the company online to explore their services.

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