NAPA AUTOPRO

Tips for keeping your car in good condition during COVID-19

As you may not use your car or truck as much, it is important to know what to do to keep your vehicle in perfect condition: you will avoid troubles the day you need your vehicle the most.

1 – Start your car at least once a week

This will allow the car fluids to circulate, especially the lubricant, thus protecting all of the engine components. Also, it will help keep your battery charged.

Avoid short trips (less than 5 km). Going to the grocery? Try to find a way to drive at least 10-15km (even more): it will remove water from your exhaust and your engine will reach its optimal temperature.

2 – Keep your fuel tank full

Empty tank may be a source of issues during long period

The fuel tank should never be left empty or at the reserve level, as it may deteriorate. Ideally, your vehicle should have at least half a tank of fuel.

3 – Mind the brakes

This rotor started to rust only after a few hours

If your vehicle is parked for a while, some rust may be now covering your brake system.
1 – Start slowly and perform a few brakes pressing gently on the pedal. This will remove rust on the surface of the rotor.
2- if the noise does not stop after a few brakes, rust has probably damaged more that just your rotor and you should perform a brake service.
3 – Hand brake: It’s best not to use the hand brake unless your vehicle is parked on a slope. When the hand brake is engaged, the cable that connects to the back axle tightens. If the hand brake is engaged for a long period of time, problems may arise when it is released.

4 – Pay attention to tires

Move the car once a week as mentionned to change the support point of your tires. That will avoid your tires from being stressed and also deformed. Same apply to store your winter tires.

Don’t get stressed if you are still having your winter tires installed. If you drive less, they won’t suffer and prematurely wear. However, check the tire pressure often as this can impact handling, wear and driving quality. As temperature finally gets better, pressure is also changing (law of physics!) and needs to be adjusted.

Got questions? Your local NAPA AUTOPRO can answer your questions and provide you with tips about your vehicle’s maintenance.