Unused cars: five considerations worth taking seriously

Mechanical problems due to downtime

Cars that stay parked for a long time, for example, several weeks, are prone to mechanical problems. As a result of such lulls, batteries may drain, brake discs and pads may rust, and engine oil and other fluids may lose their effectiveness!

If your car has been sitting idle for a long period, be sure to refresh both brake and coolant fluids before you put it back on the road. If in doubt, have a mechanical inspection performed before you take the vehicle out of storage. Also, keep in mind that while car insurance provides a range of coverage, it does not extend to mechanical breakdowns due to normal wear and tear or lack of vehicle maintenance.

Tires that warp

Whenever cars remain parked for long periods, their weight rests on the same parts of the tires the whole time. Such prolonged pressure may cause temporary warping or, in some cases, more significant damage to the tires.

Be aware that driving with warped tires raises fuel consumption and makes blowouts more likely. Before getting your car back on the road, check the pressure in all tires and make sure they are free of tears and other damage.

A fender-bender while the car is parked

Even when it is parked, a car may be involved in a fender-bender. Another driver may cause damage to your car while steering into a parking space or while parallel-parking in the street. The damage may be covered by the at-fault driver’s car insurance (under civil liability coverage).

In the event of a hit-and-run, if your insurance policy provides coverage for all perils including collision and upset under Chapter B2, your own insurance company must cover the damage to your vehicle in accordance with the terms of your policy.

Prevention remains your best defence against accident hazards and car-insurance claims. To be on the safe side, check your car for damage every day whenever it is parked away from your home to enable you to act promptly should you need to make a claim.

Theft or vandalism

A car parked in the same spot for a long time may be targeted by thieves or vandals. The likelihood of theft or vandalism may be greater if the car is parked in a secluded or poorly lit location. Coverage for all perils except collision and upset under Chapter B3 provides the policyholder with protection against theft, fire, vandalism, broken glass, and damage resulting from severe weather.

Severe weather

Cars that remain stationary outdoors are exposed to weather-related hazards that may cause damage to bodywork and windows, including , high winds, heavy rain, snow, ice, and falling tree branches.

Whenever possible, park in a sheltered location, such as a garage. The use of a protective cover may also shield your car from adverse weather conditions without, however, eliminating all potential hazards associated with extended outdoor parking.

FAQ: Hazards associated with unused cars

Are there hazards to leaving a car unused for a long time?

Yes, there are. A car that is stationary for several weeks may lose battery charge and tire pressure, become corroded, and develop problems with fluids or brakes. In addition, if left outdoors without supervision for a long time, it may become a target for theft and vandalism.

If a car is left unused, how long will its battery last?

A car battery can lose its charge after a few weeks of inactivity, since some of the car’s electronic systems continue to consume power. Battery life may vary in accordance with the battery’s condition and age, ambient temperature, and vehicle m0del. Using a smart charger can maintain your unused car’s battery charge.

What are good practices to follow if I leave my car unused for a long time?

Ideally, park it indoors in a safe location, check tire pressure regularly, and make sure the battery remains charged. If the car sits idle for a long time, have it inspected before taking it on the road again. Also, to prevent exposure to exhaust fumes, take care not to run the engine in an enclosed space.

Is putting the car into storage the best solution?

If you plan not to use the car for a long time, proper storage is an option worth considering. Booking advance or same-day car storage is easy with SAAQclic. What is more, this approach enables you to reduce your car-insurance premium and recover certain payments from Société de l’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ).