8 Tips to protect your car

Due to the adverse conditions we have been living in lately and the restriction of commuting, many of us have either parked permanently our car or have little movement by car.
The fact that we do not move it, does not mean that we do not need maintenance or give attention to avoid problems.
Here are some helpful tips to help you keep your car in optimum condition as long as it remains stationary.

1) Weather protection
The most effective way to protect your car from rain or hail in winter and heat and sun in summer is to park in an enclosed parking lot. Of course in this case renting costs a lot of money if there is no private space. A more economical solution is to buy a good, waterproof hood with an inner lining rather than a plain one. Sun protection is essential during the summer months so that the panel is not burnt and we strongly recommend the use of polish / protective spray to maintain its color and shine.

2) Body wash
In order not to lose its color shine. Dust, but especially bird feces, is the worst "enemy" of color, since they wear out the varnish and leave dull spots.

3) Battery charging or pole disconnection / battery removal
If stagnation is for a short time, then you should start the engine every 1-2 weeks and allow it to work for 5-7 minutes. If the car remains idle for many weeks, remove the cables that come in contact with the battery poles to avoid discharging, or completely remove the battery to avoid damage that may cause a possible leak of fluid. But again you should be aware that even so the battery loses some of its power, so there should always be emergency power cables in the car.

4) Cabin Ventilation
Once a week open all windows and doors to "change" the air in the cabin. If the car is parked in an enclosed parking lot, leave a window slightly open so that moisture does not get trapped inside and it smells bad. It is recommended to replace cabin filters with activated carbon filters when you are going to use your car again.

5) Air condition function
Failure to operate the air conditioner for a long time results in the system piping drying out. It should run at regular intervals to lubricate the system (always with the engine running, otherwise the battery will discharge quickly).

6) Tire pressure check
Never leave tires with a bit of air, as they will start to wear down the sidewalks, while at the same time sitting down on the road and squaring off, making a lot of noise when rolling. If you plan to leave it parked for long enough, inflate it more than normal. It is advisable to go some miles because otherwise they will dry out quickly, even if they are new.

7) Liquid Flow Protection / Wiper Blades Protection
Do not remove liquids from the various vehicle containers (splashers, cooling system, etc.) as the air remaining inside causes oxidation of the pipes. Also lift or remove the wiper blades completely and apply them with a special cream to prevent their tires from drying out.

8) Slight release of the handbrake
Never raise the handbrake until the last step, as long as it stays on, the rear brakes (which most brakes can usually catch) will stick. Release one with two clicks, provided the car is straight and with the 1st or reverse gearbox selected.

At AutoNetParts you will find everything you need to maintain your vehicle properly as long as you have it immobilized and what you will need to safely drive it again.