How Often Should You Start Your Car While in Storage?
Whether you're heading out of town, taking a long vacation, or simply don't need the vehicle for an extended period, it's important to know how often you should start your car while in storage. Understanding this simple aspect of car maintenance can prevent unnecessary headaches down the road and keep your vehicle in tip-top shape.
Dive into the mechanics of engine maintenance, battery life, and fluid circulation to ensure your vehicle remains ready to hit the road when you are. After you've learned about how often you should start your car, take advantage of the exclusive offer from Midgard Self Storage for units in Covington, Georgia!
How Often Should You Start Your Car?
It's a question many car owners ask when storing their vehicles for an extended period. The easiest answer is that you should start your car every few weeks to maintain its mechanical integrity. This simple routine can make a huge difference, ensuring that when you're ready to drive again, your vehicle is as well.
While it might seem unnecessary to start a car you don't plan to drive, this practice helps in multiple ways. It keeps the engine components lubricated, prevents the battery from draining, and ensures that all systems remain functional. Regularly starting the car also helps identify any potential issues before they become major headaches.
However, starting the car alone isn't enough. It's essential to take it for a short drive, ideally reaching speeds of 40 mph or higher, to get the most benefit out of this routine. Doing so allows the battery to recharge, the engine to warm up properly, and the fluids to circulate efficiently!
Why You Shouldn't Let Your Car Sit for an Extended Period of Time
Ignoring this simple maintenance step can lead to a host of issues that might be costly and time-consuming to fix. From battery drainage to mechanical problems, giving your car the cold shoulder can result in more than just a sluggish start.
Battery Drainage
A car battery naturally discharges over time, and if left unchecked, it can eventually go dead. Without regular starting and running, the alternator doesn't get a chance to recharge the battery. A dead battery means you'll likely need a jump start or even a replacement, adding unnecessary hassle to your schedule.
Keeping the battery charged also prevents sulfation, a situation where lead sulfate crystals form and reduce the battery's capacity. By routinely running the engine, you help avoid these issues, ensuring the battery remains healthy and reliable.
Mechanical Issues
Like any mechanical system, cars are designed to be used. Prolonged periods of inactivity can lead to mechanical issues that affect the car's performance. When a car sits idle for too long, parts can seize, seals can dry out, and rubber components can become brittle.
Regularly starting the vehicle keeps all moving parts lubricated, reducing the risk of corrosion and wear. This simple habit can save you from costly repairs and keep your car ready for action.
Engine Health
The engine is the heart of your car, and keeping it in prime condition should be a priority. When you start your car, the oil circulates, ensuring all engine components are adequately lubricated. This prevents friction and wear, which can lead to significant engine problems over time.
Additionally, running the engine helps maintain the fuel system. Modern fuels contain ethanol, which can attract moisture and lead to separation or corrosion. By running the engine, you allow the fuel to circulate and prevent these tedious issues.
Fluids Not Circulating
Various fluids play critical roles in your vehicle's operation, from the coolant that regulates engine temperature to the transmission fluid that ensures smooth gear shifts. When a car sits idle, these fluids can settle, leading to clogs or uneven distribution.
Starting the car and taking it for a drive helps keep these fluids circulating, maintaining their efficacy. It also prevents the formation of rust and corrosion in the engine and transmission, extending the life of your vehicle.
It's Not Enough to Simply Start Your Car
While starting your car regularly is important, it's equally crucial to drive it. A brief drive at highway speeds (40 mph or higher) does wonders for your car's health. It allows the tires to rotate, preventing flat spots and ensuring even wear. It's also necessary to recharge your car battery life.
Driving also activates the brakes, preventing them from seizing or rusting. Additionally, it exercises the transmission, ensuring gears remain lubricated and functional. This comprehensive approach to maintenance keeps your vehicle in optimal condition and ready for the road.
Remember, the goal is not just to start the car but to give it what it needs to stay healthy. By incorporating this routine into your schedule, you'll extend the life of your vehicle and avoid unnecessary repairs.
Now You Know How to Care for Your Car, What Storage Place Should You Trust It With?
Choosing the right storage facility is crucial for protecting your vehicle. Midgard Self Storage offers a range of options. With features like climate-controlled units and 24/7 gate access, your car will be easily accessible for these maintenance check-ins.
Additionally, Midgard Self Storage provides flexibility with month-to-month rentals and a knowledgeable team ready to assist with your needs. Their facility offers convenience with ground-level units and drive-up access, making it easy to store and retrieve your vehicle.
To make your decision even easier, Midgard is currently offering a special deal at our Covington, GA location. New customers receive the second month free, providing an excellent opportunity to experience our top-tier service at a reduced cost—reserve your unit today!