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Perhaps you’ve started working from home or maybe you’ve transitioned from school run driver to homeschooling mom. Either way, many of us have not been using our vehicles as much, because of COVID-19. However, your vehicle still needs a bit of attention to protect it against engine failure, a dead battery or flat tires - a hassle we could all do without right now. Here are a few tips to follow to ensure your vehicle starts when this quarantine is over.

1. Clean it. It may seem unnecessary to wash your car if you won’t be driving it much, but water stains and bird droppings left on the car for an extended time can damage the paint. Make sure to give it a good thorough scrubbing, including the wheels and fenders, taking care to remove any mud, grease or tar. You could even give it a coat of wax for added protection.

2. Change the Oil. Car manufacturers recommend changing the oil before putting a vehicle in storage. The used oil has contaminants, dirt, and build-up in it, which could damage the engine.

3. Top up the gas tank. Filling up the fuel tank will prevent moisture from building up in the tank and keep your seals from drying out.

4. Don’t use the parking brake. Normally it’s a good idea to use the parking brake, but not for extended periods of time. The brake pads could become stuck to the rotors if they are left together for too long. Instead, to prevent the vehicle from moving, use wheel chocks.

5. Prevent flat spots. Make sure the tires are inflated to the factory recommended tire pressure. If a vehicle sits for too long on underinflated tires, they could acquire flat spots from the weight of the vehicle pressing on them.

6. Keep up the insurance. You may be tempted to save a bit of money and cancel the insurance on your vehicle. While it may save money right now, some insurance companies may raise the rates because of the gap in insurance coverage.

7. Keep it covered. Ideally, park your vehicle in a garage to protect it from the weather and outdoor elements. If you don’t have a garage, consider getting a weatherproof car cover, which will help keep it clean and dry.

8. Drive it. An unused battery will eventually lose its charge. It’s a good idea to drive the vehicle for about 15 minutes every few weeks if possible to help ‘stretch its legs”. Driving the vehicle periodically will recharge the battery and help lubricate the engine and other moving parts.

Following these basic steps will ensure your vehicle runs smoothly again when you’re ready to drive it, avoiding expensive repair costs down the road. Contact the experts at Hilltop Tire Service with any questions you may have. We’ll be glad to hear from you!