Things to Check on Your Car If You Haven’t Driven in a While
In our busy lives, there are times when we might leave our cars parked for weeks or even months. Whether it’s due to a long trip, working from home, or simply not needing to drive, a car that sits idle for an extended period can develop issues. Before you hop back in and hit the road, it’s essential to check several components to ensure your vehicle is safe and running smoothly. At Get Drivers Ed, we know that good driving isn’t just about skills behind the wheel; it’s also about being aware of your car’s condition. In this blog, we’ll walk you through key areas to inspect if you haven’t driven your car in a while.
1. Check the Battery
One of the first things to check if your car has been sitting idle is the battery. Car batteries can lose their charge if the vehicle isn’t used regularly, especially in extreme weather conditions. If the battery is dead, the car won’t start, and you may need to jump-start it or replace the battery entirely.
Signs of a Weak Battery
Dim headlights or interior lights
Slow engine crank when you try to start the car
Clicking sound when turning the key in the ignition
If you’re unsure about the battery’s condition, consider using a multimeter to check its voltage. Ideally, a fully charged car battery should read around 12.6 volts. If it’s significantly lower, it may be time for a replacement.
At Get Drivers Ed, we always emphasize the importance of regular maintenance, including checking the battery, to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the road.
2. Inspect the Tires
Tires are another critical component to inspect. When a car sits unused for a while, tires can lose air pressure, develop flat spots, or even dry out and crack. Driving on under-inflated or damaged tires is dangerous, as it increases the risk of blowouts and affects your vehicle’s handling.
What to Look for in Your Tires
Air Pressure: Use a tire pressure gauge to check each tire’s pressure and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI.
Flat Spots: Tires that have been in contact with the ground in one position for an extended period can develop flat spots. You’ll likely feel a bumpy ride if your tires have this issue.
Tread and Sidewall Condition: Inspect the tread for any excessive wear and check the sidewalls for cracks. Replace tires if they appear damaged or worn out.
Properly inflated and healthy tires are essential for safe driving. At Get Drivers Ed, we cover the importance of tire maintenance in our driver education courses to help new drivers understand the impact of tire condition on road safety.
3. Check Fluid Levels
Fluids are the lifeblood of your vehicle, and if it has been sitting unused, some of these fluids could have deteriorated or even leaked. Checking and, if necessary, topping off your car’s fluids can help prevent issues when you start driving again.
Fluids to Inspect
Engine Oil: Check the oil level and its color. If the oil looks dirty or is low, it’s best to get an oil change.
Coolant: Make sure the coolant level is within the recommended range. Coolant helps prevent your engine from overheating, so this is especially important if you’re planning to drive in warm weather.
Brake Fluid: Low brake fluid levels can impact your braking performance, so check the fluid level and ensure there are no leaks.
Transmission Fluid: If your car has an automatic transmission, check the transmission fluid as well. Low or dirty fluid can cause shifting problems.
At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that understanding basic car maintenance can help drivers avoid costly repairs and improve safety on the road.
4. Test the Brakes
After a long period of disuse, your car’s brakes may need some attention. Rust can form on the brake rotors, especially if the car has been parked in a damp environment, which can impact braking performance. Additionally, brake fluid might lose its effectiveness over time.
Steps to Check the Brakes
Visual Inspection: Look at the brake pads and rotors through the wheel spokes. If you see excessive rust, you may need to have your brakes serviced.
Pump the Brake Pedal: Press the brake pedal a few times to make sure it feels firm. A spongy or soft brake pedal may indicate air in the brake lines or low brake fluid.
Take It Slow on the First Drive: When you first start driving again, test the brakes at a low speed to ensure they’re working properly.
At Get Drivers Ed, we stress the importance of fully functional brakes as part of defensive driving and overall vehicle safety.
5. Inspect the Belts and Hoses
Belts and hoses can deteriorate over time, especially when a car hasn’t been driven. Rubber components can dry out, crack, or even become brittle, which could lead to leaks or component failure.
What to Look for
Cracks and Wear: Inspect belts for visible signs of wear, such as cracking or fraying.
Firmness and Flexibility: Gently press on hoses to see if they feel firm but flexible. If they feel too soft or too hard, it may be time to replace them.
These parts are critical for engine performance, and issues with belts and hoses can lead to breakdowns. At Get Drivers Ed, we cover the basics of engine maintenance to help students recognize these issues early on.
6. Check for Pests
If your car has been idle for a while, especially in a garage or outdoor area, there’s a chance that pests may have made it their home. Small animals like mice or squirrels can cause serious damage by chewing through wires or building nests in the engine compartment.
How to Spot Signs of Pests
Look for chewed wires or plastic components.
Check for nests or droppings around the engine and air filter.
Listen for strange sounds when you start the engine, as animals can sometimes get caught in mechanical parts.
A quick visual inspection can save you from costly repairs caused by animal damage. Get Drivers Ed encourages car owners to take precautions against pests if they know they won’t be driving for an extended period.
7. Test the Lights and Wipers
If your car hasn’t been driven in a while, it’s essential to check all the lights (headlights, brake lights, turn signals, etc.) and the windshield wipers. Lights may have burned out or dimmed, and wiper blades can become dry and brittle, reducing their effectiveness.
Check Each Component
Lights: Turn on all the lights, including your hazard lights, to ensure they’re working properly. Replace any burned-out bulbs.
Wipers: Test the wipers and washer fluid to make sure they work effectively. If the wipers are streaking or skipping, it’s time to replace them.
Functioning lights and wipers are critical for visibility, especially in bad weather. At Get Drivers Ed, we emphasize the importance of these features in safe driving practices.
Conclusion
If your car has been sitting unused for a while, it’s essential to perform a thorough check before hitting the road. By inspecting the battery, tires, fluid levels, brakes, belts, hoses, lights, and even checking for pests, you can avoid potential problems and ensure a safer driving experience.
At Get Drivers Ed, we believe that understanding basic car maintenance is an important aspect of responsible driving. Whether you’re a new driver or just looking to refresh your skills, our driver education courses cover everything you need to know to stay safe and prepared on the road. Take the time to go through this checklist, and you’ll be ready to drive with confidence, no matter how long it’s been since your last trip.
