There are many benefits to working from home. It’s convenient, comfortable, and the lack of a commute saves you money. Unfortunately, this last perk can also prove to be an issue. Though professionals who work primarily from home don’t pay as much for gas and keep their vehicles at a low mileage, a car sitting still long-term creates its own share of complications. This is why car maintenance is important, no matter how often you hit the road. No one wants to get in their car for the first time in months only to find that it doesn’t start. Keep yourself and your vehicle in good shape with these tips on how to take care of your care when you don’t drive much.
Don’t Focus on Mileage
When you drive your car to and from work every day, it’s easy to keep an eye on the mileage. This means you’re more likely to remember when your next maintenance deadline is around the corner. Without this constant reminder, it’s tempting to let those deadlines go by without taking your car into the shop. However, staying on top of routine maintenance is a vital part of how to take care of your car when you don’t drive much. Even when you’re not driving, your car is still aging and experiencing wear. Instead of focusing on your car’s mileage, write down the recommended calendar dates for your next check-up or oil change so that you can take your car in sooner rather than later.
Keep it Clean
Not driving much means you’re not gathering napkins, crumbs, or other little messes that can add up to a dirty car interior. However, this doesn’t mean that the exterior of your vehicle is safe from dirt, weather, and other factors that can cause a mess. Clean your car on a semi-regular basis. This will protect your car’s exterior and finish even as it sits still beneath the sun, birds, or other elements that can wear it down over time.
Take a Joy Ride
In all honesty, the best way to care for your car without a daily commute or other routine driving is to simply hit the road once in a while. Take a short trip around the block to recharge the battery, get engine fluids flowing, and keep the overall vehicle running smoothly. Even staying in the parking lot and turning the car on every so often will help ensure your vehicle gets the action it needs to run when you actually need it. When you make a point of testing your car on a semi-regular basis, you also keep an eye on any problems that may arise. This helps you catch issues before they turn into costly repairs.
