You are here:

American Motors/Brand New Car

Advertisement

Expert: Kevin Pilotte - 8/10/2005


Question
hi there. I recently bought a brand new car. and i rarely use it. My question is, what will happen if i dont use it for a long time? i rarely use it because i drive my dad's cool car and he's out of the country. will it die? I just start the machine for about 15-20 mins twice a week in order for the battery to charge.

Thanks and looking forward for your reply.

jen  

Answer
There should be no problem leaving the vehicle undriven for a week or two. Any longer and you might want continue to do what you're doing. Starting it until the engine reaches operating temperature. Driving it around the block would help, too. What you don't want to do is start the engine for a few minutes and not let the engine warm up completely. This is not good for the engine and can result in oil sludging and engine damage. It must reach operating temperature.
You might want to check your owner's manual. It probably has more information on the proper storage of your vehicle.
Good luck.
Kevin  

American Motors

All Answers

Answers by Expert:

Ask Experts

Volunteer

Kevin Pilotte

Expertise

I can answer many technical questions relating to AMC vehicles prior to 1979. I also have experience with Rambler & Nash vehicles.

Experience

I am a former AMC technician, service writer and service manager. I have worked in AMC dealers in Illinois in the 70's. After college, I was a Field Service Rep for American Motors Sales Corporation, working out of the Chicago Zone office. I traveled to AMC dealers assisting in the diagnosis and repair of AMC vehicles. I was also the Area Training Manager for DeLorean Motor Company. I have 10+ years as an Automotive Instructor. I have modified and restored
numerous AMC vehicles. I have been working on AMC vehicles for over 30 years.

Organizations
I have been an ASE Certified Master Technician since 1975. This includes L1. I am also currently a Toyota Certified Master Diagnostic Technician.

Publications
I have articles in "American Motoring", the official publication of the American Motors Owners Association. They are the largest AMC club in the world.

Education/Credentials
I have a certificate I printed out from a website.

©2012 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company. All rights reserved.