Right now, many find themselves at home for long periods of time in quarantine, either self-imposed or mandated. Concerns of the spreading the novel coronavirus have become such a central focus of our lives and thoughts that some things may understandably get overlooked — like the condition of our cars.
In times of crisis, while driving may be minimal, having a reliable car is perhaps more essential than ever. Drivers need to know that their car will be able to take them where they need to go in an urgent situation. If you or a loved one experiences a medical emergency, a faulty car breaking down on the way could — without wanting to sound too alarmist — turn out to be disastrous.
Key Factors
It’s easy to forget about your car at this time, especially if you are one of the millions of Americans that are out of work or working from home. Errands and duties that require a car are scarce for those who do not hold an “essential” job.
As cars sit idle, their batteries begin to lose charge. So, while many of us are practicing social or physical distancing, our cars may be slowly losing their ability to get started. Sitting for a week or so is fine, but if your car sits for a month, there’s a chance it won’t start the next time you try to drive.
Additionally, air leaks out of your tires from lack of use, causing low pressure and creating risk for other problems and unsafe driving conditions. These are just a couple of factors to be wary of in regard to an inactive vehicle.
People are juggling more than ever and it’s easy to let important things like car maintenance fall to the wayside. However, a reliable car is part of emergency preparedness; if you’re counting on your vehicle to take you to the hospital without it being in prime condition, consider getting your car inspected. A trip to an auto shop requires little interpersonal contact, and most mechanic shops are going above and beyond the necessary precautions to keep their customers safe – we at AutoScope certainly are.
Steps to Take
We recommend driving your car at least two times a month for at least 10 miles to prevent a substantial loss in battery power. If you only crank your vehicle, you further drain the battery, so it is important to drive it for at least 20 minutes to allow it to recharge. This is also a good chance to pay attention to any problems that could exacerbate themselves in an emergency situation.
Listen for sounds like squealing, clanking, or anything out of the ordinary. Check your car’s oil and coolant levels and make sure that you have at least enough gas in the tank to carry yourself to an emergency care facility and back. A charged battery, an engine that can reliably run without overheating or stalling, and a transmission free of major problems are critical in this time. Every individual should have a plan in place to effectively respond in a crisis, and that includes a well-maintained car.
Any questions that you have about your vehicle should be directed to a certified mechanic. Our team at AutoScope is here to answer all questions and address any concerns. If you need work done, give us a call today at (214) 562-7863 or visit online – it is in your best interest and the best interest of those around you.