Your Car Should Not Sit Idle: Why Regular Driving Is Essential

A Certified Home Watch Reporter knows that leaving your car unattended for long periods can lead to avoidable issues. Many people think starting their car and letting it idle occasionally is enough to keep it in good shape, but that's a common misconception. Your vehicle needs regular driving to maintain its health. That’s why we suggest driving your car regularly to keep it in top condition. Here are the key benefits and reasons why actual driving, rather than idling, is so important.

Why You Should Drive Your Car Regularly

Keeps the Battery Charged

Starting and letting the car idle isn’t enough to charge your car's battery properly. Driving at normal speeds for about 20-30 minutes helps recharge the battery, reducing the risk of it discharging or failing, which is especially important if the car is unused for extended periods. 

Circulates Fluids and Lubricates Moving Parts

 When you drive, essential fluids like oil, coolant, and transmission fluid circulate throughout the engine, keeping everything lubricated and functioning smoothly. This stops components from drying out or becoming damaged due to lack of use.

Inhibits Tire Flat Spots

When a car sits in one place for too long, the tires can develop flat spots, causing uneven wear and shortening their lifespan. Regular driving ensures that the tires maintain even pressure, extending their life and keeping your ride smooth.

Stops Surface Rust from Developing on Brake Rotors

Brakes are particularly susceptible to rust if they aren't used frequently. Driving helps shed surface rust and ensures that your brake system stays responsive.

Stops Fuel from Going Stale

Gasoline can degrade over time, especially in modern cars. Driving your vehicle circulates the fuel, keeping it from becoming stale and ensuring your engine runs smoothly.

Tips for Your Car Drive

To maximize the benefits of your drive:

Drive for at least 10-15 miles to ensure all systems are properly activated.

Reach speeds over 50 mph if possible, as this helps the engine fully warm up and ensures the alternator charges the battery efficiently.

Ensure the engine gets fully warmed up to keep seals and gaskets in good condition.

Additional Benefits of Regular Driving

Avoids battery discharge and failure by keeping the charging system active.

Keeps mechanical components lubricated, ensuring smooth operation and preventing premature wear.

Prevents tire flat spots and uneven tire wear.

Circulates fuel, preventing it from degrading or causing engine issues.

Exercises the brakes, removing rust and ensuring they're ready when you need them.

Keeps seals and gaskets from drying out, reducing the risk of leaks or other mechanical failures.

Discourages rodents from nesting in your engine bay, a common problem in inactive vehicles.

What to Do if Your Car Sits Unused for Over a Month

If your car will sit idle for more than a month, additional measures may be necessary, including:

Using a battery tender to maintain the battery charge.

Adding a fuel stabilizer to keep the gasoline from degrading.

Disconnecting the battery to avoid drain.

The bottom line is that driving your car rather than just idling it keeps all its systems functioning properly. It also exercises the entire vehicle, helping to avoid the problems that come with prolonged inactivity.

Drive Regularly, Not Just Idle

A Certified Home Watch Reporter may offer a Car Drive Service to ensure your vehicle is cared for while you're away. They understand that maintaining your car's performance and longevity is crucial.

*The suggested frequency of Car Drives varies. Always check with your vehicle manufacturer or mechanic for specific recommendations and advice.

Author: Diane Pisani, Founder Home Watch Academy

Disclaimer: The views expressed are those of the author and don't reflect those of any affiliated organizations. This blog is for general information only, with no guarantees of accuracy. Readers should consult with other professionals for specific advice. The author is not liable for errors or damages. External links aren't endorsements.