Car Maintenance You Need Even If You Don’t Drive Much
If you’ve found yourself driving less lately—maybe because you work from home, have a second car, or just don’t rack up many miles—it’s easy to think your vehicle doesn’t need as much maintenance. But that assumption can lead to some expensive surprises.
Even when your car isn’t being driven regularly, things like oil, rubber, and fluids continue to break down with time. Batteries lose charge. Brakes can develop rust. And problems can sneak up just when you’re ready to go.
This guide covers the key maintenance your vehicle still needs—even if the odometer is barely moving.
1. Oil Changes – Yes, Even When Your Car Isn’t Moving
It might seem logical to delay an oil change if you’re not driving much, but oil doesn’t just degrade from use—it breaks down with time. Moisture and temperature changes can cause oil to lose its lubricating properties, turning it into sludge that clogs your engine.
While there’s no public stat on how many engines seize from skipped oil changes, the CarMD Vehicle Health Index regularly ranks engine damage from oil neglect—like low oil levels or sludge buildup—as one of the most expensive and preventable repairs. Mechanic networks like RepairPal also report oil neglect as a leading contributor to major engine failures.
Most automakers recommend changing your oil at least once a year, even with low mileage. And they often warn that skipping oil changes can cause serious engine damage—or void your powertrain warranty.
2. Battery Maintenance – Sitting Too Long Can Leave You Stranded
Batteries slowly discharge even when the car is off. Modern vehicles continue to draw small amounts of power for systems like the clock, alarms, and onboard electronics. If a car sits idle for too long, especially in cold or hot weather, the battery can lose its charge entirely.
Roadside assistance providers like AAA consistently report that battery-related service calls double—or even triple—during colder months. And many of those calls come from cars that haven’t been driven regularly.
Start it once a week and let it run for 10–15 minutes
Take it for a short drive (idling alone isn’t enough)
Consider a battery maintainer for long-term storage
Most car batteries last 3–5 years, but infrequent use can shorten that lifespan significantly.
3. Tire Care – Tires Age, Even When They Look Fine
Tires don’t just wear from driving—they also break down from exposure to sunlight, moisture, and time. When a car stays parked for too long, tires can develop flat spots or start to dry rot, especially in extreme weather conditions.
The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recommends replacing tires every six years, regardless of tread depth. That’s because rubber naturally degrades with age, and visual inspections don’t always reveal internal damage.
Underinflated tires are another hidden issue. Tires lose air slowly over time, and driving on low pressure can affect fuel efficiency, handling, and tread life.
Check tire pressure monthly
Look for cracks, bulges, or uneven wear
Move the car occasionally to prevent flat-spotting
4. Brake System – Rust Doesn’t Take Long to Set In
When brakes sit unused, especially in humid or coastal environments, rust can form on the rotors. That surface rust may wear off during normal driving, but over time it can lead to pitting, brake noise, vibration, or sticking components.
Brake system issues are among the most common repairs reported by auto shops. In CarMD’s national repair data, brake-related problems consistently rank in the top five—often showing up in cars that aren’t driven regularly.
Drive the car at least every week or two
Watch for squeaking, grinding, or a “soft” brake pedal
Get your brakes inspected once a year, even with low mileage
5. Fluids and Filters – Quiet, but Critical
Even when your car is parked, fluids like coolant and brake fluid continue to degrade. Coolant can become acidic, losing its ability to protect the engine from corrosion. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which reduces its performance.
Manufacturers generally recommend replacing:
And while you may not think much about your cabin air filter, it collects dust, pollen, and moisture even when the vehicle isn’t in use—leading to musty smells and reduced airflow when you finally turn on the A/C.
These aren’t major repairs, but ignoring them can lead to bigger problems that are far more expensive to fix.
Driving less comes with some nice perks—lower fuel bills, fewer maintenance appointments, and less wear on your vehicle overall. But low mileage doesn’t mean no maintenance.
Some of the most expensive repair issues mechanics see actually come from cars that sit too long without attention. A simple, time-based maintenance routine—like annual oil changes, fluid checks, and occasional drives—can keep your car reliable and ready whenever you need it.
Because whether it’s a last-minute trip, an unexpected errand, or just a weekend cruise, it’s always better to turn the key and know your car is good to go.
If your car has been sitting more than it's been driving, it might be the right time to consider an upgrade. A newer model could better match your current routine—and you might get more for your trade-in than you think. Explore our latest inventory to see what fits your lifestyle now.
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