How often should a sitting car be started?

Keeping Your Sitting Car Happy: The Importance of Regular Starts

Leaving your car sitting idle for extended periods, whether it’s due to a long vacation, temporary relocation, or simply infrequent use, can have detrimental effects. Contrary to what some might believe, simply plugging in a trickle charger isn’t always enough to maintain a healthy vehicle. The key to keeping your parked car in top shape lies in regular engine starts.

While a trickle charger addresses the battery’s direct power needs, it doesn’t account for the holistic health of the vehicle’s electrical system. A car’s battery isn’t just a power source; it’s part of a complex interplay with the alternator. The alternator, driven by the engine, is responsible for replenishing the battery’s charge during operation. Prolonged inactivity allows the battery to slowly discharge, even with a trickle charger. This discharge isn’t always visible as a complete drain, but it can contribute to sulfation – a build-up of lead sulfate crystals on the battery plates – which reduces its efficiency and lifespan.

Therefore, regularly starting your engine is crucial. Aim for at least once a week, running the engine for 10-15 minutes. This timeframe allows the alternator sufficient time to adequately recharge the battery, compensating for any passive discharge. This simple act provides several benefits beyond battery health:

• Maintains Battery Health: This prevents sulfation and ensures the battery retains its optimal capacity.

• Prevents Premature Battery Failure: Regular charging extends the lifespan of your car’s battery, saving you the expense and inconvenience of a replacement.

• Lubricates Engine Components: Starting the engine circulates oil throughout the engine, lubricating critical components and preventing wear and tear from prolonged inactivity. This is particularly important for older vehicles.

• Checks for Issues: A quick engine run gives you an opportunity to listen for unusual noises or check for any warning lights, allowing for early detection of potential problems.

• Maintains Fuel System Integrity: Although the effects are less immediate than battery drain, extended inactivity can lead to fuel degradation and potential issues with fuel injectors. Regular starting helps mitigate this.

Beyond the Weekly Start:

While a weekly start is a good baseline, consider more frequent starts if your car sits idle for longer durations, especially in colder climates where battery discharge rates increase. Also, remember to check your owner’s manual for specific recommendations from the manufacturer.

In conclusion, while a trickle charger offers a degree of protection, it’s not a complete solution for maintaining a parked car. Regular engine starts are essential for preserving the health of your battery, engine, and overall vehicle, ultimately saving you time, money, and potential headaches down the road. Make the weekly engine run a part of your car care routine and keep your vehicle running smoothly.