This isn’t a simple answer, instead it can be answered with a yes and a no. Your European auto will still need to have routine maintenance even if you are not driving it often it just might not need the same maintenance as you would if you were driving it frequently. Also the vehicle can start to develop unique maintenance needs from sitting still for so long.
In order to preserve the joy of your vehicle for as long as possible then you need to perform regular maintenance is essential- even if you’re not driving the vehicle often.
Here is how you can maintain a vehicle that you’re not driving very often.
Check on Tire Pressure
If you are unaware, tire pressure of you car isn’t affected by driving but actually by temperature changes. So it is still important to check and adjust your tire pressure even if you haven’t driven the vehicle frequently. If it has been sometime between drives then you will want to get a pressure gauge out and check the tire pressure before you getting behind the wheel.
Add Fluids
All of the fluids in your vehicle still need to be maintained or changed out even if you don’t use them. These liquids have a shelf-life and at some point they won’t work effectively. Consider checking all of these fluids before you get behind the wheel:
- Motor oil
- Brake fluid
- Engine coolant
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Antifreeze
- Windshield wiper fluid
Taking the vehicle for an occasional short drive can help many of these fluids circulate and perform better when you take it for a longer drive.
Charge the Battery
When your vehicle isn’t running the battery cannot charge. Batteries will also slowly lose their charge even when not in use. You can run the vehicle for a bit to ensure that the vehicle is charging it. However, be careful, starting the vehicle is hardest on the battery and you need to run it for long enough to make up for this.
Instead of running the vehicle, you could instead attach the battery to a trickle charger or battery tender. As long as they have an automatic shut-off feature, they will protect the battery’s charge. Just be sure to detach it before you get in the vehicle.
Handle Gas Issues
If you leave a vehicle tank less than full for long periods of time- 30 days or more- it may develop moisture issues through condensation on the inside. So, be sure to fill up your gas before you park your vehicle.
In addition, if you let gas sit for long enough, it becomes unsuitable for use and can actually damage the vehicle. If you won’t be using the whole tank of gas for three months or more, add some fuel stabilizer. This will keep the fuel useable and prevent corrosion in the fuel lines and engine.
Contact Carage Auto
Tired of dealership-level prices just to maintain the car you love? If you’ve been searching online for “Mercedes service near me,” “Mercedes repair in Jupiter, FL,” or even just “auto repair near me,” it’s time to visit Carage Auto. We specialize in high-quality European vehicle maintenance without the inflated costs. Our expert technicians are passionate about keeping your car running at its best—whether you drive it daily or only occasionally. Schedule your next service with us and experience the care your vehicle truly deserves.
