During this time of the national pandemic, the ability to drive on a regular basis has been shortened.  This has left people struggling with many new issues they never had to deal with before.

Here at Joey’s Automotive, we understand the concerns that so many of us now face. Social isolation, distancing, and following state guidelines can leave us feeling a bit overwhelmed and some normal activities are overlooked. Activities that if not maintained could cause issues further down the road.

That is why we want to remind our customers of a few basics that may be overlooked as we’re going through this wave of national crisis. Something we take for granted without even realizing it; your vehicle.

Oil Changes

Although it is a common misconception that an oil change only needs to be done after the car has driven 3,000-5,000 miles, in reality, a vehicle’s oil should be changed at least every six months even if you have not driven the designated miles.

The longer oil sits in a vehicle regardless of the mileage, old oil can collect moisture through condensation or other means.  This can impede proper lubrication of the engine resulting in possible damage or excessive wear on the engine.

Start Your Engine

Gaskets and seals are made of a rubber-type consistency and can become dry and brittle if they do not receive the fluids they require. This can result in leaks which can cause engine troubles.

To prevent this from happening,  start your vehicle about once a week and allow it to run for several minutes. This allows the fluids to flow to all of the components in your car keeping them lubricated.  

Check Your Tires

Tires are made with rubber as well. If they sit too long they can begin to lose air. As they sit, that loss of air can lead to a flat spot which can then crack.  Using a tire gauge, check the pressure on your tires to ensure they are filled with the proper amount of air pressure.

 If you have a car installed with a TPMS then your vehicle will automatically let you know, however sometimes they can fail, so it’s always best to double-check every once in a while to be certain. Remember an improperly inflated tire can impair the safety of your driving.

Fill Your Gas Tank

Try to keep your gas tank full at all times. A half-full or less allows rust to form on the top of the fuel tank which can cause problems in the engine. Also, if you know you’re going to leave your car sitting for long periods of time it is best to add a bottle of fuel stabilizer to a full tank. This prevents ethanol degradation which forms a gum-like film on the interior of your fuel system. (fuel pumps, lines, injectors, filter, etc.) This can result in something as simple as poor fuel mileage to as large as your car not starting at all.  If your car was an everyday driving car, this was not an issue because the fuel was being used before it could degrade. However, if you are no longer driving on a daily basis, keeping a fuel stabilizer in your tank as well as keeping it filled can help prevent potential problems in the future.

Keep An Eye On Your Battery

Vehicles that sit for months at a time may also need maintenance to their battery especially newer vehicles. Modern vehicles have computer systems that require electricity to keep them functioning. Although the draw is minimal,  it can drain your battery over a long period of time. We recommend that you start your vehicles and let them run for a minimum of thirty minutes at least once a month to recharge the battery.

Don’t Forget Your Bodywork

One of the least thought about concerns on a vehicle is its maintenance of bodywork.  Although it seems as though a sitting car would receive fewer chances of developing rust, the fact is rust will develop faster on a car sitting in a driveway then one driving down a highway! When driving the air in motion around the vehicle prevents moisture and oxidization from adhering to the metal. If a car is sitting still moisture such as humidity and rain can sit on the metal and combined with oxygen create rust.

If you’re a two-car family, consider trading off vehicles each time you go out for essentials. This gives each car a chance to charge the battery, lubricate the systems, and reduce the rate of rust. When not in use consider keeping your car in a closed-in area or at least protected with an auto cover.

 Automotive repair is considered an essential need.  We are like a doctor for your car’s health. If you need any assistance stop in or call us, and we’ll be glad to help you. 

Remember, if your vehicle is unable to run, we offer 24/7 towing services.

Stay safe.