How Long Can a Car Battery Sit Unused?
You may have questions about how long you can leave your car battery without use. The truth is that unused car batteries will eventually die if they aren’t given regular attention and maintenance. Knowing the factors that affect battery life can help you decide how often you need to replace your car battery.
Factors That Affect Car Battery Life
- Temperature – Extreme temperatures can reduce the lifespan of your car battery. It is best to store your battery in a cool place to prevent premature death.
- Age – The older your battery is, the less useful it becomes. Older batteries should be checked more often for corrosion and battery life.
- State of Charge – The amount of charge your battery contains also affects its lifespan. Keeping a fully charged battery stored for long periods of time can reduce its useful life.
How Long Can a Car Battery Sit Unused?
The exact amount of time your car battery can sit unused without dying depends on the factors listed above. Generally, it is recommended to start your car at least once a week if you are storing it to prevent battery death. If your car is going to be stored for longer than a month, it is best to take the battery out, store it in a cool, dry place, and charge it periodically. Regular maintenance and care can extend the lifespan of your car battery and prevent it from dying if it has been sitting unused for an extended period of time.
How often should I start my car if I don’t use it regularly?
It is generally recommended to start your car at least once a month and let it run for at least 10-15 minutes in order to keep essential fluids like oil and coolant circulating. This will also ensure that the battery remains charged.
What is the recommended minimum idle time for an unused vehicle?
The recommended minimum idle time for an unused vehicle is 30 minutes per month for all kinds of vehicles, including cars, trucks, and boats. This ensures that the engine does not seize up and can remain in good working order.
