How to keep my car in running condition while it is parked for a while

Tiny
777VS666
  • MEMBER
  • 1997 LEXUS ES 300
  • 3.0L
  • 2WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 300 MILES
I recently bought my first car it was in good condition oil change every 5,000 miles, but I do not have my license right now and I want to keep the car running. I flushed out all The fluids and added new car runs fine but my question is, my car is sitting I try to start it every 1 week reverse it 5 inches and back in the garage. Will this car survive or would I just sell it while it still working well? How to keep it running and ready for the road as when I get my license.
Wednesday, June 10th, 2020 AT 1:42 PM

4 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 108,170 POSTS
Hi,

What you are doing should help. I would keep a battery tender on it to make sure the power isn't lost. The biggest thing is the fuel. If it sits too long, it will get bad and cause driveability issues, but that would take about a year. Also, allow it to warm up to operating temperature when you start it. It is a good idea to actuate the accessories such as the A/C, windows, blower motor, wipers, and so on.

How long do you plan to keep it before it is used on a regular basis?

Let me know.
Joe
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Friday, June 12th, 2020 AT 10:22 PM
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello, I'm Danny.

I agree with Joe on keeping a battery tender installed to keep the battery charged. As far as the fuel system goes you can go to any local auto parts stores or Walmart and purchase a fuel stabilizer to add to the tank. It's called Sta-bil and is red in color. Picture attached below. It helps keep the gas from deteriorating while your car is parked.I had my truck parked for about 2 years and had no problems with these precautions in place. I went and started the truck only once a month. Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2CarPros.
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Saturday, June 13th, 2020 AT 7:36 AM
Tiny
777VS666
  • MEMBER
  • 2 POSTS
Thank you guys a lot of the advise regarding the fuel stabil is there a specific amount to use? Also, what is the best safe charge for my Everstart 35A battery? I try to move the car once a week with a little drive around the block. Thanks once again!
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Saturday, June 13th, 2020 AT 8:01 AM
Tiny
DANNY L
  • MECHANIC
  • 5,648 POSTS
Hello again,

The picture of the bottle I posted treats 10 gallons. Figuring how big your fuel tanks holds and how much gas you have in the tank you will just have to add accordingly. The battery tender only charges at a very small amperage. They usually only charge 1 amp and will shut off when battery is fully charged. They will turn back on when it notices a drop in voltage. This is why they can stay attached all the time. Hope this helps and thanks again for using 2carPros.
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Saturday, June 13th, 2020 AT 9:06 AM

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