Running the car less often!

[BobMillar]

As the title suggests the F isnt getting driven as much now.

I've just moved into a new house which is a 4 minute walk to my office yet probably a 10 minute drive (one way streets, Everest sized trafic calming measures etc) therefore walking is much better.

Previously I was doing about 180 miles per week travelling to and from work. Since moving I've done 5 miles in the last fortnight!

The car will get used much more when the clocks change and I'll go for some nice runs at night up into the mountains.

But are there any precautions I should take with the car being parked up more ? Will the battery be affected? It started fine after not being driven for eight days but the memory on the radio was wiped.

Anything else I should consider (brakes, coolant, oil etc)

[ScarletFever]

Bob,

I recently entered a similar situation with Scarlet, the first question i suppose is "Is the car garaged?" if so this makes a big difference.

In my case the answer is yes. And furthermore over Xmas she wasn't started for 3 weeks so the battery drain did become an issue.

If the car is garaged, then chock the wheels and leave it in gear (handbrake off). This will preven the calipers seizing up. Also, invest in a battery conditioner (i got mine from B+G for £35.00 ish). Connect it to the battery (disconnect the underbonnet light plunger and leave the bonnet ajar), then plug it in. It'll charge the battery and then on a cycle, allow it to partially discharge before topping it up again. This'll keep the battery in top condition and always give you enough of a charge to start the car. Park it with the hood up, but not secured (to prevent condensation buildup) and get hold of a cheapish car cover (dust etc)

If the car is outside, obviously a lot of the above isn't relevant. You can get a battery jumper which is a handheld power pack that you charge up and then if the battery is flat you can give it a big jump start - these tend to be pricey though, but are portable and work really well.

Lastly, before starting the car, add to your checks the tyres (as they may have deflated slightly over time) and coolant / oil (good advice for any F).

[BobMillar]

It's on the street unfortunately.

I was thinking about investing in a car cover but not sure.

Is this just a magnet for tea leafs? Will it draw more attention than an uncovered car? Cant decide yet.

[TimW]

Bob,

My car is getting considerably less use these day but without any side effects. I have invested in a Monsoon car cover though, an absolutely brilliant investment keeping the car clean between weekend and out of the prying eyes of the tealeaves. I bought the cover straight from the pattern maker (he advertises on ebay) Chart One I think he's called, since then Victoria has set up dealings with the man and is able to retail then at under 100quid inc VAT I think (Mike does them at 120+VAT) worth the investment though.

Tim