Car Parked for a Long Time? Check These Before Driving Again

A parked car's battery self-discharges every day. After 2–4 weeks without being driven, the battery may not have enough charge to start the engine. Worse, deep discharge permanently damages battery capacity so even after recharging it goes flat again quickly.

Before driving, check the battery voltage (should be above 12.4V), or watch for slow cranking and dim instrument lights when starting. If these appear, charge or replace the battery first.

Tyres left in one position under the car's weight can develop a 'flat spot' — slight deformation at the contact patch — causing a mild vibration when you first drive. It normally disappears after 10–20 minutes as the rubber warms up, but if the vibration persists have the tyre checked.

Also check pressure — tyres naturally lose about 1–2 PSI per month, so all four tyres need topping up to the figure on the door-jamb sticker.

Brake discs exposed to air rust quickly — a thin layer of surface rust is normal and clears after a few braking applications. If parked for many months, the rust layer may be thicker; the first few stops may be noisy or judder slightly, which clears with normal use.

Also check: engine oil level (can drop slightly through evaporation); coolant level; wiper blades (rubber may have stuck to the windscreen — peel gently); all lights. If parked over 3 months, consider a minor service at the same time. WhatsApp 4M Car Care to book.