COVID-19 Restrictions: Tips To Store Your Car Properly

These simple steps will keep your car in good condition during the lockdown

With the country under lockdown and residents in India working from home following the government’s precautionary measure to prevent the spread of novel coronavirus, maintenance of cars parked for days becomes even more crucial.

As of today, there are 2,088 active coronavirus patients in India, according to the Union ministry of health and welfare. Till now, 156 patients have been recovered from the disease. The death toll has increased to 56.

As you stay at home and leave the car parked for days or week, you may face issues like flat tyres, dead batteries and dust piling up on the car. However, it is easy to ensure that your car stays in top condition even if you do not drive it for months.

Motor experts say, that if you let your vehicles remain parked for an extended period, it may lead to a dead battery, damaged engine or flat tyre.

Here we advise you on how you can keep your car in running conditions even if you do not drive it for weeks.

Do Not Engage The Handbrake When You Leave

Engaging the handbrake for an extended period can result in brake pads getting stuck to the discs or drums. If this happens, you will be in trouble the next time you drive the car. The smartest thing to do would be to use wheel chocks, such as a piece of wood or even a brick, to stop it from rolling and leave the car in first gear.

Keep The Car Clean

Always clean your car before parking it for a long time. Water stains or bird droppings left on the car can damage the paint. Also, make sure you clean the wheels and underside of the fenders to get rid of mud, grease or tar. Clean your car once every week. Using the car cover will offer complete protection.

Change Oil And Filters

It is advised to change the oil and air filters if you are storing your car longer than 30 days. Used oil contains moisture, metal fillings and sludge that could damage the engine. Skip this test if you are storing the car for a week or two.

Keep The Battery Charged

Start the car twice a week to ensure the battery is charged sufficiently. An unattended battery will eventually lose its charge and might create difficulty when you try to start the car.

Flat Tyres

Make sure to move your car twice every week to ensure tyres stay in good shape. Check the tyre pressure and make sure they are properly inflated as it helps in preventing cracking of sidewall and flat spots. Also, remember to check the valves and valve cap for leaks. When a vehicle is left stationary for too long, tyres develop flat spots due to the weight of the vehicle.

Follow these simple steps to ensure that your car also stays in good health during the lockdown.