Whether you live in walking distance to your job or simply prefer not to get behind the wheel on a daily basis, you might not realize the importance of taking your car out for a regular drive. At our Phoenix area Volkswagen dealership, we encourage car-owners to drive at least once every two to three weeks, or else you might wind up with a dead battery, flat-spotted tires, or other problems that can be caused by letting your car sit for weeks.
Why Phoenix Area VW Drivers Shouldn’t Let Their Cars Sit
Although some people might be able to get away with letting their vehicles sit for months in a garage without problems, you’re better off driving your car a few times each month and for at least 10 miles, with some speeds over 50 mph. After your car has sat for a while, driving it will wake up the transmission, brakes, suspension, power steering, climate system, and all the fluids.
A battery will slowly lose its charge as it sits, and starting the car will drain it even more. It’s important to drive several miles after starting your car so the battery has a chance to recharge. If a car remains parked for a month or more, the battery could lose so much power that it will need a jump-start or a charge before the engine can start.
Here are additional reasons not to let your Volkswagen model sit for several weeks or longer:
- Tires slowly lose air over time. As they do, the weight of the car will press down on the tires, causing flat spots to develop on the segments sitting on the ground. When you drive the car on properly inflated tires, your tires will stay round. If you let the vehicle sit for extended periods on underinflated tires, permanent flat spots will form and the way your car drives will be affected.
- Rodents might take up residence under the hood or even in exhaust outlets. If they’re hungry, some might eat the wiring harnesses and parts made of soy and other organic materials that are used on modern cars.
- Moisture can collect in the gas tank (especially if it isn’t full) and in the oil over time, which can potentially lead to corrosion.
For more tips and tricks, please don’t hesitate to contact the team at Lunde’s Peoria Volkswagen serving Phoenix area drivers!
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