Tips For Maintaining Your

Parked Vehicle


 

During these challenging times, you’re likely not driving your vehicle as frequently as you’re used to, leaving it parked for extended periods of time. From drained batteries to frozen brakes to rusted fuel tanks, many things can go wrong with a car left sitting in the garage or driveway for an extended period.


 

Like any machine with a lot of moving parts, certain systems and components in a vehicle require attention, care and periodic use. Here’s a few steps you can take to ensure your parked vehicle remains in good shape and ready to roll when you are.


Tire Tips

Proper Inflation

Make sure to keep your tires inflated to the proper PSI. This information can be found on the inside of your driver-side door, or within your owner’s manual. If you don’t have a tire pressure gauge, your local Pep Boys will check your tire pressure for free.


Battery Basics

Drive Around the Block

At least once a week, start your vehicle and drive it around the block to get the fluids moving through the engine and get the vehicle up to proper temperature.

Unplug Chargers

Unplug any phone chargers, which are a small but constant drain on the battery.

 

Check Your Charge

If your vehicle is slow to start, Pep Boys can check the charge for free.


Oil Change Tips

Check Your Manual

You may not be driving as frequently, but did you know that motor oil can break down over time, as well as miles? Check your owner’s manual to make sure you haven’t passed the manufacturer’s recommended mileage and/or time interval.

Make An Appointment

If you’ve gone past the manufacturer’s recommendation, make an appointment for an oil change. It’ll be good for your engine, and one less thing on the to-do list when life gets busy again.


Brakes Basics

Avoid Your Parking Brake

If possible, don’t apply the parking brake for extended periods of time unless parked on a severe incline. Corrosion can cause the brake to ‘freeze’ and leave you stuck in park.

Automatic Transmission

With an automatic transmission, simply place the vehicle in park.

 

Manual Transmission

If the car has a manual transmission, put it in first or reverse gear and use wheel chocks to help hold the vehicle in place.


If you find your vehicle needs more attention or repair, visit your local Pep Boys and one of our Pros can assist.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Additional Considerations

Windshield Wipers

Run the windshield wiper fluid for a few seconds to both wash the window and keep the blades from drying out. If you do need wipers, we install them for free.

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Sunshades

If your car is exposed to constant sun, use a sunshade to help prevent the UV rays from damaging or fading your dash and interior. If you need a sunshade, we’ve got you covered.

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Cabin Air Filters

Your cabin air filter helps keep allergens, dust, fumes and other odors from circulating inside your vehicle. If yours is visibly clogged or due to be changed (check your owner’s manual), we can replace it.

MAKE AN APPOINTMENT

Need A Tow?

Call 1-800-PEP-BOYS

 

If you’re stranded or your vehicle won’t start, our call center will dispatch a premier towing service to your location and tow your vehicle to a local Pep Boys store.

Now’s The Perfect Time For Some Spring Cleaning!

A few quick tips to help you clean and shine!

 

Don’t forget to disinfect and sanitize your vehicle in between drives to avoid spreading germs. Clean frequently touched surfaces like your keys, handles, mirrors, gear shift, radio and steering wheel with classic hand or dish soap. Avoid bleach, solvents, and alcohol-based cleaners.


Going Further To

Help Keep You Safe

Touchless

Drop-Offs

Put your keys in the provided envelope, add your contact info, and drop it in the box.

Mobile Pay

 

Simple, safe and secure payment, right on your phone, remotely or in-store.

Extra Mile

Care & Cleaning

We will use seat and steering wheel covers and disinfect high-touch surfaces.

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