How to Take Care of Your Car While Sheltering in Place

For most Americans, the stay-at-home orders have brought their daily commutes to a halt. People are venturing out less frequently, except for those occasional trips to the grocery store or pharmacy.

While these measures are crucial to curbing the spread of COVID-19, it’s leaving many cars idle in driveways or garages. Less wear and tear means saving money on gas, but neglecting your vehicle during this downtime can lead to some hidden issues.

Your car's battery might start losing its charge, rodents could turn your engine bay into a cozy nest, and parts may begin to corrode. To keep your car in tip-top shape until you're back on the road, here are some essential steps to take during this period of inactivity.

Take It for a Spin Weekly

Unless you're making quick trips to the store, your car probably isn't getting enough mileage. Aim to drive it for at least 20 minutes once a week to:

• Keep the engine and alternator running
• Maintain battery charge
• Circulate oils and fluids to prevent them from coagulating
• Ensure your brakes stay active, avoiding rust formation
• Prevent belts from becoming brittle and cracking
• Keep your tires rolling to avoid flat spots

This applies even to electric or hybrid vehicles. Although the charging system should keep the battery topped up, idling for too long can still lead to discharge over time.

If you can’t drive consistently, consider using a trickle charger. Alternatively, you might want to remove the battery and the tires entirely if you’re planning to leave the car unused for an extended period.

Keep Both the Interior and Exterior Spotless

How well you’ve cared for your car after winter and where you store it will determine how much cleaning it needs now. Leaving your car uncovered in the driveway exposes it to sun damage, bird droppings, sap, and dust. Add to that the accumulated grime and salt from winter driving, and your car might need a thorough scrub.

Start by treating the interior like you would your living room—disinfect the cabin thoroughly, wiping down seats, armrests, the console, and the steering wheel. A bleach-based cleaner isn’t recommended. Instead, use a microfiber cloth dipped in a 70% isopropyl alcohol and 30% water solution—this works well for plastic surfaces but avoid suede and leather.

For the exterior, either park your car in the shade or invest in a weatherproof cover. If neither option is feasible, make it a point to wash or spot-clean your vehicle regularly to prevent contaminants from damaging the paint.

Remember to steer clear of bleach, hydrogen peroxide, and ammonia when cleaning your car, as these can harm screens and upholstery.

Inspect Your Tires Regularly

Your tires can develop flat spots if your car stays stationary for more than a month, especially in cold weather with low air pressure. To prevent this, check the tire pressure frequently. Inflate them to the recommended PSI found inside the driver’s door.

Be Cautious with the Parking Brake

Leaving your parking brake engaged for an extended period can cause the brake pads to bond with the rotors, leading to rust on the rotor surface. Taking a drive helps reduce this risk, but if you know you won’t be driving often, it’s better to release the parking brake.

Look Out for Pests

Rats, mice, and squirrels can wreak havoc on your vehicle. They might chew through wires, build nests, or stash food in your engine, which could render your car unusable. Since a parked car provides an ideal hiding spot, check under the hood for nests and inspect the tires and wheel wells for signs of pests.

Prepare for Long-Term Storage

If you anticipate being at home for several more months, consider treating your car like a seasonal vehicle. In addition to a weatherproof cover and regular cleanings, perform these maintenance tasks:

• Change the oil
• Fill the gas tank completely and add a fuel stabilizer
• Check all fluids to prevent gaskets and hoses from cracking

Car maintenance remains an essential service in many states. DaSilva’s Auto Body is currently providing “No Touch” services to keep your vehicle in excellent condition. If you require maintenance during the pandemic, reach out to our Naugatuck shop today.

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