How to Maintain Your Car During COVID -19
It might not look like it now, but the COVID-19 pandemic is taking its toll on more than just the people. As you stay home as often as you can and play your part in flattening the curve, your car is sitting idle outside, patiently waiting for the next time you use it. Unfortunately, cars are not designed to sit idle, and although you're not driving it often, it’s important to keep up with routine maintenance to ensure the car runs smoothly when you get back on the road. To help you keep your car in its best shape, save yourself some money and frustrations in repairs down the road and consider these tips to help you maintain your vehicle during the pandemic.
Battery Maintenance
Your battery will eventually lose its charge if the car sits idle for too long. Starting the car and letting it run for several minutes can help to keep your battery charged. Alternatively, you can have a trickle charger or battery tender with an automatic shut-off feature installed to keep your battery in good condition when you're not driving.
Keep Your Car Clean
Sitting cars outside can become target practice for birds. Bird droppings are acidic and can damage the paint job on your vehicle. A nice clean once in a while should keep the paint job protected and looking its best.
Keep Up with Oil Changes
Your oil might not be working hard to keep your engine lubricated, but it's still getting oxidized inside the reservoir. Therefore, it’s important to keep up with any necessary oil changes even when you're not driving your car.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Brakes and tires — Once a week, jump inside the car and take a short trip to keep the brakes and tires in pristine condition. We recommend taking your car for a spin once every 2 weeks for 20 minutes.
- Wipers — As soon as you park the car, lift the wiper arms off the windscreen.
- Tire pressure — Use a tire pressure gauge to check the inflation pressure before driving the car.
- Fluid levels — regularly check your car’s fluid levels.
To learn more about how to keep up with regular maintenance during COVID-19, or for more information on our auto services, contact us at Custom Complete Automotive today!
Find an Auto Repair Shop Near You
We have multiple auto repair shops throughout Missouri located in Columbia, Jefferson City, and St. Louis.
Eric Riddles is an ASE Certified Master Automobile Technician who has been working as an auto mechanic since 1998 and originally joined the team at Custom Complete Automotive in 2005. Eric has numerous certifications in various aspects of car repair and spent 10 years training the next generation of auto technicians at a local high school Auto Shop classroom.
