Take care of your car during quarantine

These unprecedented times can also create unique challenges for your vehicle. The last thing you want right now is preventable car problems. To avoid problems with your car after the full quarantine, give your car the attention and care it needs today. Here's everything you need to know about car care during quarantine. 

Stay away from the heat

The intense summer heat can have several different negative effects on your vehicle. These problems can be exacerbated if your vehicle is left stationary for long periods of time in direct sunlight. When you know it will be several days before you get out of your car again, take steps to protect it from the sun. If you have an outdoor car cover, now is the time to take full advantage of it. Parking your car in the shade or in a garage can also help protect your car from the heat. 

Maintain essential services

There are two ways a mechanic evaluates needed services: by mileage and by time between mechanic visits. You may wonder why a car with low mileage service; however, it is more likely that an idle car will experience certain maintenance issues than a used car.

Change of oil, for example, are one of the most used services. While you might think that you can put it off because you don't drive often, it's important to reconsider your decision. Your engine oil deteriorates quickly when not in use, losing its cooling and lubricating properties faster than frequent driving. Skipping an oil change in quarantine can result in you using an ineffective oil. This can lead to engine problems and costly repairs. 

Take your car

One of the most important care you can give your car during quarantine is frequent trips. Even if you don't drive to work every day, you should still aim to take your car for a ride once a week. The less frequently you drive, the more likely you are to run into one of the problems that threaten idle vehicles. 

Problems with sleeping machines

If you leave your car idle for too long, here are the potential threats it could face. Follow:

Dead battery due to quarantine

A dead battery is one of the most common non-running car problems, and perhaps one of the easiest to prevent. The battery is charged while driving. If left for a long time, it may cause battery life drain. During the heat of the season, your battery will also struggle with corrosion and internal evaporation. It is imperative that you take your car for a run from time to time and give battery time to recharge. 

Idle cars and tire problems

As you know, tires are made of rubber. This material can become hard and brittle if left unused for too long, often referred to as tire dry rot. Dry rot is aggravated by summer heat and direct UV rays. Tires are also used to rotate your car's weight and pressure distribution. When it stands too long, you risk deflated and damaged tires. 

Problems with belts and engine hoses

Your engine belts and hoses are also made of rubber, which can leave them vulnerable to dry rot if left unused. Although they are not as dangerous as your tires, their wear and tear can create big problems for your car. 

Exhaust pipe and engine occupants

Especially during the colder months (though we hope the COVID-19 problems will be gone by then), little critters can start to take refuge in your engine or exhaust pipe. When your car only drives occasionally, it can create the perfect environment for critters:

• Your car is usually warm after driving. Even if you drive infrequently, it can provide enough warmth to attract animals after use.
• During infrequent use, your car can also provide enough sleep so that animals can trust it as a stable environment. This is true in any season. 

This problem is especially relevant for drivers living in the more rural areas of the greater triangle. If you rarely use a car, be sure to look for critters.  

Unsuitable gasoline

While you may not think twice about your gasoline, leaving it on for too long can lead to problems. Over a long period of time, residual gasoline can deteriorate. Your gasoline loses its combustibility as it starts to oxidize and some components start to evaporate. As a rule, gasoline is enough for 3-6 months. Gasoline problems can be prevented by using your car carefully, even if you no longer drive to work every day. If your gas has become bad, a specialist can drain it for you. 

brake rust

Depending on how long your car has been sitting and how much rain and humidity it has endured, your brakes may squeal when you start driving again. This is caused by a buildup of rust that would otherwise be prevented by frequent braking. Your brakes may be fine, although heavy rust will require expert help. If you're worried about driving with questionable brakes, see a mechanic who does home visits, such as Chapel Hill Tire. 

Quarantine for Chapel Hill Car Care tires

Chapel Hill Tire experts are ready to help you during the COVID-19 quarantine. All eight mechanics of our triangle points provide the care your vehicle may need while maintaining CDC safety guidelines. We offer free roadside service and free delivery/pickup to protect our customers and mechanics during this time. to make an appointment with Chapel Hill Tire to get your car the quarantine care it needs today!

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