Maintaining Your Vehicle During the Pandemic
Due to the unprecedented situation that we currently find ourselves in, we realize that many vehicles will be sitting idle for longer than usual. However, while your vehicles may be seeing less time out on the road, preventative maintenance and upkeep is just as important now as ever.
Whether your vehicle is a conventional, hybrid, or electrical; there are mechanical, hydraulics, and of course electrical systems that need to see some sort of “utilization” in order to maintain their functions.
It is advised that at least once or twice-a-week, your vehicle is started and allowed to run for at least 15-minutes. You’ll also want to move the vehicle forward, backward, and maneuver it a bit by turning the steering wheel left & right; perhaps even “turning the vehicle around”, for example, if you normally pull into your driveway, try backing in.
These suggestions serve several purposes:
- Starting & running the vehicle for at least 15-mins:
- This allows the vehicle’s charging systems (battery, starter, alternator) to keep all the electrical systems fully charged & operational at peak efficiency
- This also allows for the vehicle’s fluids to regulate flow & maintain lubrication of the mechanical/powertrain components (engine, transmission, etc.)
- Maneuvering the vehicle:
- This allows for any of the vehicle’s steering & suspension hydraulics to also maintain lubrication for proper operation
- This also prevents tires from developing “flat spots”. Although unnoticeable to the “naked eye”, if a vehicle were to sit for a long period of time in the same position; all of that weight onto one area of the tire can create a “flat spot”. This will contribute to a wobbly and/or vibrational feeling when driving the vehicle, as now the tire will have lost its original form.
If you have any questions regarding the proper maintenance procedures for your vehicle, please don’t hesitate to reach out and we’ll be happy to assist.
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