Maintenance Tips for Your Unused Vehicle in York, PA
If you end up in a situation where you don’t need to use your GMC Sierra 1500, GMC Canyon, or Buick Envista to travel every day, then you need to follow certain guidelines to keep it in good shape. Our Service Department at Jack Giambalvo Buick GMC has developed this guide for you. Follow these maintenance tips for your unused vehicle to keep it ready for future rides in York.
Store Your Vehicle Properly
When a car sits unused for an extended period, a little preparation goes a long way in preventing damage and costly repairs. Start by thoroughly cleaning the vehicle inside and out to inhibit corrosion and reduce pests. Next, find a storage area in which to place the vehicle. If possible, secure the vehicle in a building that animals cannot get into and that will also prevent damage from the weather. Whether you store it inside or must leave it parked in your driveway, wrap it with a breathable car cover to protect it from dust and moisture while allowing airflow. Using a car protector will also reduce the mess from wildlife and pollen particles. If you need help finding the right one for your car, reach out to our Parts Department.
Make Certain to Drive It
Another way that you can keep your car ready to go is by taking it for a drive at least once every two weeks. Doing so will benefit you in a few ways. For starters, when your Buick is sitting and not being used, the battery will automatically discharge. After a long enough time, your car will struggle to start for your ride on Route 30, or it may fail entirely. To prevent this from happening, drive your vehicle for about 20 to 30 minutes every two weeks, so the alternator can restore the charge to your battery. The other reason you’ll want to take your car for a ride is to keep the tires from developing flat spots from resting in one area for so long.
Create a Maintenance Plan
The final overarching tip you should follow to keep an unused car functional is to create and follow a maintenance plan. Before storing your car, make sure you get all the routine maintenance done on it, including tire rotations, brake checks, and an oil change. While our service team is working on your vehicle, consult with them to create a repair plan that takes into account the fact that you’re going to store the car. They’ll tell you when to schedule a service appointment for your next oil change and how you can optimize your model’s storage area to prevent damage to its interior and exterior. That way, it’s ready to transport you to Penn Park when you need it to.
