Whilst the coronavirus pandemic remains a
huge problem, many people are in lockdown. As part of that, they’re possibly
not getting out at all and so their car remains out of action.
Eventually the lockdown will end, and
life will return to normal. When that happens, you want to be sure you don’t
need to call out a Kingsgrove mechanic or one from elsewhere to fix a
flat battery or other problems.
Essential Steps to Protect your Car
If your car isn’t going to be used for a
long period, it needs to be made secure. Ideally, that means locked away in a
garage or, if none is available, on your driveway with the keys safely in the
house.
Putting the car in a garage will protect it
from sunlight, rain, dust, humidity, bird mess and anything else that can
damage the paintwork. The alternative is a fitted cover but, before putting the
car away, ensure it’s clean inside and out.
Wash thoroughly to prevent the build up
of grime that damages paintwork, particularly removing mud and brake dust from
the wheels. Rinse with clean water, dry with a micro fibre cloth and apply wax polish
for added protection. Also thoroughly clean the interior, removing any organic
matter that can rot and avoiding excess moisture that can cause mould and musty
smells.
The biggest problem that is likely to
result from prolonged inactivity is a flat battery. A trickle charger will help
while driving your car for fifteen minutes every two weeks, or at least running
the engine for that long will help to prevent this and also circulate oil to
protect the engine. A full fuel tank will prevent condensation and rusting
inside the tank as well as prolonging the life of the fuel.
The car should be left with the handbrake
off to prevent it seizing up. Place chocks against the wheels if you’re worried
it may move or remove the wheels entirely and put the car on axle stands to
prevent flat spots developing on the tyres. Serious flat spots may require new
tyres to be fitted by an Earlwood mechanic.
Check before you Drive
It’s essential you periodically check the
condition of your car to detect problems and particularly at the end of lockdown
before using your car. Make sure the brake discs aren’t corroded, the battery
has enough charge, oil and coolant levels are okay and, for a diesel car, that
the diesel particulate filter isn’t clogged.
To be really sure you’re good to go, a Bexley
mechanic can check for problems and correct them. Don’t risk your safety
when going back on the road.
