In recent weeks many of us have been driving our cars very infrequently or not at all. This may have reaped big savings in terms of gas bills, but you may find that certain parts of your car have deteriorated during this period of relative inactivity, which can prove costly.\u00a0 We show you what to check on to prepare your vehicle for post-lockdown adventures.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
You may already know what it is like when you return from a long vacation to find that your car won\u2019t start.\u00a0 Your battery will have been discharging during that time of lack of use.\u00a0 The same type of thing will have been happening due to lack of use during the lockdown period. It\u2019s particularly an issue if your battery is older. Using your car when you go on your weekly trip to the grocery store will help keep the battery charged especially if you can drive your vehicle for about 15 minutes during that excursion.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
It doesn\u2019t take long for tires to develop flat spots when they aren\u2019t being used. Check your tire pressures regularly to make sure they are at the right level. Also make sure your tires are in good condition.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Unused brake discs start to corrode very quickly. Make sure that your brakes are in full working order before hitting the road again – apply the brakes gently and often to start.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Top up oil as needed as well as other fluids such as water and antifreeze. Driving to the grocery store will help the oil to circulate in the engine. Don\u2019t forget to fill up with fuel if it\u2019s been a while since you last went to the gas station.
<\/p>\n\n\n\n
After the lockdown restrictions are lifted, try to drive your car for 20 to 30 minutes on the freeway. This will help to fully charge the battery and to get the gears and engine back to their normal functioning ability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
In recent weeks many of us have been driving our cars very infrequently or not at all. This may have reaped big savings in terms of gas bills, but you may find that certain parts of your car have deteriorated during this period of relative inactivity, which can prove costly.\u00a0 We show you what to …<\/p>\n