Willie Nelson had it right…most of us just can’t wait to get on the road again. But for now, we’re off. Our cars are thick with pollen, we’re getting three weeks to the gallon, and our clocks are still on Daylight’s Savings Time.
All that inactivity isn’t good for your car. If your car is literally just sitting in your driveway for any reason, there are some things that you need to do to keep it from developing problems.
Drive Out. Take a short drive each week. Even if you just go around the block, this will help keep your battery charged and the engine lubricated. It will also keep your tires from developing flat spots.
Brakes Off. Take off the parking brake. With the rainy spring weather we’re having, moisture can cause brake pads and rotors to stick together. If you must park on a hill, put your car in park, and use blocks for extra protection against rolling.
Cover Up. Invest in a car cover to protect your vehicle from pollen, birds, and all the other things that fall during the spring. Some covers even offer protection from hail damage.
Park Smart. Try to park your car off the street, to protect it from accidents and make it less attractive to thieves. It’s always a good idea to avoid parking spots that are under trees, where falling debris and limbs might cause damage.
Keep It Up. Don’t let up on regular maintenance. Washing and waxing, fluid and belt changes are always important, even if you’re not driving. If you need help with maintenance, let us know. We have drop off and pick up service for your convenience and safety.
It doesn’t require a whole lot of effort to keep your car in good shape, even while it’s idle. This shutdown won’t last forever. You’ll be ready, and you want your car to be ready for when we’re all On the Road Again!