Maintaining a Car Driven Once a Week: Essential Tips and Regular Checks
Driving a car once a week can seem convenient, but it also requires specific attention to maintain its performance and longevity. Whether you drive your car for short trips to club meetings or longer outings, here are some essential maintenance tasks to keep your vehicle in top condition.
Factors to Consider for Weekly Driving
The distance you drive and the conditions under which you drive are crucial factors to consider. A car that sits for prolonged periods, such as those driven once a week, needs more attention than a car driven multiple times a week. Fluids in a parked car can break down when not circulating properly, and an old battery may not hold a charge when the car is stationary for long periods.
General Maintenance Schedule
Follow the service schedule outlined in your vehicle’s owner’s manual. Mileage is the primary factor in determining when services and maintenance are needed, but time also plays a role. For instance, if you drive less than 5,000 miles annually, you still need to change your engine oil annually, regardless of how many miles you have driven.
Specific Maintenance Tasks
1. Check Tire Pressure
Check your tire pressure monthly, as tires can lose 1 psi per month. Regularly inspect the tire profiles to ensure they are the same on both sides. Even short trips can affect tire pressure. Consider oil changes more frequently if your trips are less than 10 miles each. Drive the car for at least 30 minutes once or twice a month to keep the battery charged up.
2. Ensure Proper Battery Charging
Most new cars have low battery drain, but some may have a higher rate of battery power consumption when the car is not in use. If you suspect your car has an abnormal battery drain, drive it for at least 30 minutes twice a week. If you have a car that drives prematurely out of battery, you may need to drive it more frequently.
3. Check Vehicle Fluids
It's important to check other vehicle fluids weekly to prevent breakdowns. Pay special attention to the battery’s age, as they typically last about 5 years on a new car. Keep track of any leaks and consult a professional if you notice puddles of liquid under the car other than the AC condensate drain.
4. Protect Your Vehicle from the Elements
Cover your car if possible to protect it from rain, snow, and other weather conditions. Waxing the car a couple of times a year will help maintain its shine and preserve the new car appearance.
Example: A Long-Term Driving Example
For example, my 1967 Corvair is driven for club meetings, usually on Saturdays. I take it out for short trips, and occasionally for parades or shows. The car requires an oil change at least once a year. Monthly checks on tire pressure ensure they remain consistent. Trips of at least 10 miles each help maintain the battery. If trips are significantly shorter, oil changes become more frequent. Regularly checking for leaks and covering the vehicle help keep it protected.
In conclusion, maintaining a car driven once a week requires specific attention to tire pressure, battery charging, and fluid checks. By following these guidelines, you can ensure your vehicle stays reliable and performs well for years to come.