If a car has been sitting for months or years, specific steps must be taken to start the engine safely. This includes lubricating the parts that will be exposed to the elements.

First, replace all the fluids; oil, coolant, and transmission fluid. Next, pop the hood and remove the old battery.

  • 17 Inch Rims

17 inch rims are a great way to give your car a more customized look. In addition, they can provide better performance than stock wheels. However, before you decide to get a set of 17 inch rims, you should keep a few things in mind.

If you want to drive a car that has been sitting for months, doing some basic checks before you start it up is essential. The first thing you should do is to see if the engine turns. If it does, you can continue with the next steps. Once done, you should also check the battery and fluids.

17 inch rims

You should also consider changing the tires. The tires on your car are an essential factor in determining the ride quality and gas mileage. You can also increase your vehicle’s performance by using a smaller tire. However, it is essential to remember that more giant rims can cause the car to sway more when cornering and may have a lower sidewall.

In general, if you increase the overall wheel size of your vehicle, then you will have to reset the speedometer. This is because the overall wheel diameter of the tire will change. In addition, if you switch from 16’’ to 17’’ tires, the sidewall on the tire will be narrower.

It is possible to get a 17-inch tire that fits a 17-inch wheel, but it is difficult to find a tire that is small enough to fit the rim. If you manage to find one, you will have to pay a premium for the tire. In addition, the tire will be heavier than the original tire, which can cause the speedometer to read inaccurately.

  • Tires

In modern life, a car may often sit for long periods between uses. Whatever the reason, sitting in a vehicle for months can cause many problems, ranging from a loss of tire pressure to a buildup of moisture in the gas tank. 

Before leaving your vehicle in storage, drain and replace the fuel filter, add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline, and make any necessary repairs. A new engine is much easier to start than one contaminated with dust or other particulates.

Tires

Over time, even well-maintained tires can lose air and develop flat spots. Parking the vehicle on something soft, such as a square of old carpet between each tire and the concrete, can help prevent this.

  • Brakes

Leaving your car unused for long periods can be bad for many things. It can wreak havoc on the tires, cause flat spots to develop, and drain the battery. Additionally, it can lead to issues with the brakes, fuel system, and even the engine. 

For starters, it is recommended to drain the gas tank and refill it with fresh fuel. You should also add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline to ensure it stays fresh and doesn’t degrade while sitting in the tank. Additionally, it is recommended to put a tarp down under the vehicle. This will keep dirt and moisture from absorbing into the tires and help to cause flat spots to develop.

Brakes

It is also a good idea to sanitize your car’s interior, including the rims and tires. This will help to prevent oil from accumulating in the wrong places, which can cause problems when you try to start it. You can get the assistance of XM Wheels if you want guidelines for your car maintenance. 

The brakes on your car work by converting kinetic energy into heat energy through friction. This pressure causes the calipers to squeeze the brake pads against the brake rotor, slowing the vehicle down and ultimately stopping it.

  • Battery

Whether your car will start or not after it has been sitting for months depends on the health of the battery. The car battery is a complicated chemistry piece involving lead plates and coatings, cups of liquid electrolyte, and chemical additives. When you turn the key, the acid in the battery merges with the lead and frees up electrons that your starter motor needs to crank the engine. That complex chemistry requires plenty of energy to shift and distribute all those molecules.

It is challenging to re-initiate the chemical process that creates electrons for your starter motor, so you’ll need to jumpstart it or replace it.

While this isn’t always the most reliable way to revive a dead car, it is one of the easiest and least expensive. But if you take the proper steps, it is possible to get most modern cars back on the road after sitting for a while.

Conclusion

When a vehicle is unused, the brake rotors and pads can become corroded and rusty. This can be due to moisture, which can cause corrosion on the steel brake rotors, or caused by lack of use. To avoid this, driving the vehicle at least once every two weeks is a good idea to keep the fluids circulating and prevent them from deteriorating.

 

Read Also: Oxidation Removal and Restoration of Aluminum Rims: A Comprehensive Approach

 

FAQs

Q1) How can I get my car started after sitting idle for months?

A: To get your car started after a long period of inactivity, you should follow a few essential steps. Firstly, check the battery and, if necessary, charge or replace it. Next, inspect the tires for any signs of damage or deflation and inflate them to the recommended pressure. It’s also crucial to check the fluids, including oil, coolant, and brake fluid, and top them up if needed. Lastly, turn the key in the ignition and be patient, as it may take a few attempts to start the engine due to the lack of recent use.

Q2) Is it necessary to check the battery before trying to start the car?

A: Yes, checking the battery is crucial before starting your car. When a vehicle sits idle for an extended period, the battery may lose charge, especially if it’s old or weakened. Use a voltmeter to measure the battery voltage, and if it’s below the recommended level, charge it using a battery charger or consider replacing it. A weak or dead battery is one of the most common causes of starting issues after prolonged inactivity.

Q3) What should I do if the tires are flat after months of the car sitting idle?

A: If your car’s tires are flat after sitting idle, you should start by inflating them to the recommended pressure. Use a tire pressure gauge to check the current pressure, and refer to your vehicle’s manual for the correct inflation levels. If the tires appear damaged or have uneven wear, it’s advisable to have them inspected by a professional and replaced if necessary. Properly inflated and healthy tires are crucial for a safe and smooth ride.

Q4) Are there any specific fluids I should check before starting my car after sitting idle?

Check several fluids before starting your car after prolonged inactivity is essential. Begin by inspecting the engine oil level and condition. If it appears dirty or low, consider changing the oil. Check the coolant level and top it up if necessary, ensuring a proper balance of coolant and water as specified by the manufacturer. Additionally, examine the brake fluid level and make sure it meets the recommended levels. Proper fluid levels contribute to the smooth operation and longevity of your vehicle.

Q5) My car’s engine is not starting after sitting idle for months. What should I do?

A: If your car’s engine fails to start after a long period of sitting idle, there are a few troubleshooting steps you can take. Firstly, check the battery connections to ensure they are clean and tight. If the battery is charged and the connections are secure, attempt to jump-start the car using jumper cables and another vehicle. If this doesn’t work, it’s advisable to have a professional mechanic inspect your car to identify and address any underlying issues preventing the engine from starting.