10 Tips to Maintain Your Unused Car During Circuit Breaker

(Photo Credit:iStock)

If you plan to leave your car unused during this Circuit Breaker period, follow these steps to ensure it remains in running condition.

Being stuck at home is not only hard on us but for our unused cars as well. Without proper maintenance, they might not perform as well when we get back on the road. Fret not though, here are some tips on how to properly store your car so that you will not have to send it for immediate servicing once the Circuit Breaker measures are lifted.

1) Park Indoors or Use Car Covers

If your car is unused during this Circuit Breaker period, park it indoors if possible. It is safer and cleaner for the exterior of your car. If that is not possible, investing in a quality car cover is another option you can explore.

However, if your car is already parked indoors, don’t use a car cover as this prevents moisture from evaporating. This was cause damage to any metal parts, especially in Singapore’s humid weather.

2) Clean Out the Interior Before Parking

Every car owner knows the importance of cleaning their car but as a gentle reminder, here’s why you should.

Throwing trash in your many car compartments is convenient but never clearing them will result in unpleasant smells, sticky surfaces, insects and bacteria growth. With this pandemic worsening day by day, we highly doubt you would want a vehicle that doubles as a hotbed for germs and bacteria.

After cleaning your car out, you could spray some freshener, but too much may stink up a confined space such as a stationary car.

3) Always Fill Up Your Fuel Tank

Another major issue of a stationary car is that it causes the inside of the fuel tank to rust. To prevent this, be sure to fill the tank to the brim with quality petrol and ensure the fuel cap is on tight.

Fuel additives may be added as well. This will ensure that moisture is kept out of the tank and rusting will not happen.

4) Disconnecting Your Car Battery

Taking care of your car’s battery ensures it remains in optimal condition. If you are not planning on driving anytime soon, you should disconnect the battery from your vehicle. This will ensure that it will stop draining as some electrical systems such as the alarm and horn will remain on even when the car is unused.

The battery should be fully charged, the water level topped up, and stored in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight.

Furthermore, smearing grease or petroleum jelly on the terminals and wire ends will also help prevent rusting.

5) Start Your Car Engine Every Few Days

If removing your car battery is not an option, you should find the time to start your engine every few days. Starting your engine for even a few minutes has several benefits.

It will prevent the battery from losing its charge, keep the engine and other mechanical parts well lubricated, and give the car a chance to “stretch its legs”. You might also want to turn on the AC to circulate any stale air in the car cabin.

6) Change Your Oil and Filters

Used oil contains sludge, metal fillings, moisture and other corrosive materials. Filling your car up with fresh oil and replacing oil filters will keep it healthy. However, choosing the right one for your vehicle is just as important. Thankfully, SPC Lubricants carries a variety of quality motor oils for almost every car model or make.

Find right motor oil for your car here!

7) Protect Your Paint Job

If your unused vehicle is parked outdoors, the paint job could get damaged even if it’s protected with a car cover as there may be existing dust, grime and moisture on its surface.

To prevent this, thoroughly cleaning the exterior is a must. Make sure to remove all dirt, dust and grime on your car before coating it with a layer of polish or wax. This helps keep moisture away as well.

8) Disengage Your Handbrake

Having the brake pads stuck to the discs and drums will cause you problems on your next drive. That is why you should opt to disengage your handbrake if your car is parked for a prolonged period.

To do it safely, ensure the transmission has been set to ‘P’ for park. If you drive a manual car, put it into first gear. Then, place chocks or bricks under the wheels to keep your car from rolling.

9) Jack Your Car Up

Leaving your vehicle unattended for long periods will call for flat spots on your tyres. To prevent this, using four jacks or blocks of wood will ensure the car does not rest solely on its wheels.

For sports car owners, you will likely have an easier time as your tyres are more durable. They may be left without support for up to two months.

10) Keep Your Tyres Properly Inflated

Worn out, over or under-inflated tyres will cause your car to underperform and compromises its safety. Always check the tyre pressure before leaving it unused to prevent the sidewalls from cracking and flat spots. Finally, check the valves and valve caps to ensure there is no leakage and they fit correctly.

If you are still concern about your car’s health after following these tips, you’d be glad to know that SPC Lubricants offers an ‘All-Rounded Protection Package’ for servicing. Affordably priced, this hassle-free option ensures that your car is in its best health after leaving it unattended.

Click here to find out more about SPC Lubricant, its products and its services. Trust us, you won’t regret it!

This article was brought to you by SPC Lubricants and Motorist.

Read More: COVID-19: Are Workshops Still Open in Singapore?

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