Maintenance Checklist for Driving Less

Whether you have moved closer to work, or working from home, there could be multiple reasons you are driving your Toyota vehicle less. Check out these quick tips to ensure that whenever you take your vehicle out, it is impeccable to drive and reliable just like the day you bought it!

1. Check Your Brakes

After sitting unused for weeks or months, Brake Pads and Rotors are almost guaranteed to have a thin layer of rust and corrosion buildup. To keep your brakes in working order, drive your vehicle occasionally, and test your braking a few times. Moving your car and using your brakes will wear off the thin layer of rust and improve the longevity of your brake pads.

If you hear unusual noises or scraping sounds, make sure to have your vehicle serviced as soon as possible for your safety.

Don Valley North Toyota Brake Maintenance
Don Valley North Toyota Battery Maintenance

2. Keep Your Battery Charged

 

If you haven't driven your vehicle recently, a likely maintenance problem you may run into is that your battery loses charge. Newer cars with more electronic features are likely to drain the battery over time, even if the vehicle's electronics are not being used.

To keep your Toyota Battery charged, try to drive your vehicle at least 20 minutes about once weekly.

3. Monitor your Tires

 

Tires degrade over time, even if you're not driving on them. When a vehicle stays parked in one spot for an extended period, the tire can get a flat spot. Flat spots and other wear can affect handling and traction on the road.

Without driving, it's also likely that your tires have deflated over time. Tires lose air pressure over time, so if a vehicle is left sitting, it is likely to need air in the tires. Check your tire pressure before going for a drive, and confirm that they are inflated to the recommended pressure.

Avoid issues with tires degrading from lack of use by taking your vehicle on a short drive each week. It's a good idea to have your tires and vehicle checked by a trained technician and to have appropriate winter or all-season tires, depending on the conditions.

Shop for new tires for your Toyota at Don Valley North Toyota to get the best choice for your vehicle and excellent service!

Don Valley North Toyota Tire Maintenance
Don Valley North Toyota Gas Maintenance

4. Keep your Gas Fresh

Automotive gasoline includes several petroleum distillates and additives, which can start to evaporate after only a few short months.

Keep the gas in your tank fresh by taking your vehicle on short drives regularly and refilling regularly.

If you leave your vehicle parked for a long time, make sure that the tank is full to reduce evaporation, keep the gas fresh, and avoid moisture from getting into the fuel system.

5. Check that your Oil is Fresh

Automotive engine oil breaks down over time. Degraded oil can build up and cause wear to the engine.

If you haven't driven your vehicle for a long time, book an appointment for an oil change with Toyota Genuine Motor Oil.

Don Valley North Toyota's factory-trained technicians can do a quick diagnostic check to tell you if your vehicle needs an oil change.

Don Valley North Toyota Oil Change Maintenance
Don Valley North Toyota Air Filter Maintenance

6. Check for Critters

A car left sitting makes a perfect home for squirrels, mice, and other rodents. Even if you leave your vehicle parked in a garage, small critters will bring grass, straw, or other things they can find and build nests in engine compartments and other small nooks and crannies, which can interfere with a vehicle's safe operation.

Check under your vehicle's hood if you haven't driven for a while to make sure that there aren't any animal nests that could be an issue for you on the road.

Make Sure Your Toyota is Ready For You

It only takes a few minutes to check your vehicle before getting on the road, and if you move it regularly, it will stay in better operating condition.

Make sure to follow your Toyota's maintenance menu and service your vehicle regularly for your safety. Our factory-trained technicians are the experts in keeping your Toyota in safe working order. If you are about to start driving again or haven't driven much recently, contact Don Valley North Toyota to book an appointment.

Book Your Service Appointment Today