How Long Can a Hybrid Car Sit Unused?

By Adrian Castillo

Plenty changed throughout 2020, and for many, that included a transition to working from home, whether for just a few days per week or full time. If you’re someone who now has less of a commute (or no commute) and, as a result, is driving your hybrid car less frequently, perhaps you’re worried about having it sit unused for extended periods of time.

The length of time that you can comfortably leave your hybrid unused will vary between different manufacturers and models. So, generally, if you’re going to leave your car sitting for more than 30 days, it’s best to have a look at your owner’s manual to find specific storage instructions. Of course, your vehicle’s batteries will keep their charge for a while, but after too long, problems can arise—particularly for the 12-volt battery, which will drain much quicker if attached to the vehicle. And while storage plans and maintenance steps will vary between models, there are some general principles you can follow to keep your car in good shape if you aren’t regularly driving it.

How to Keep Your Hybrid Car in Good Condition During Long Periods Without Use

To begin with, the location where you’re keeping your car stored is important. If you don’t plan on driving it for a while, it’s key that you keep it in a garage or somewhere covered. But beyond where you’re leaving it, there are steps to take that can help keep it in good condition for when it’s time to drive it again. Consider:

• Regularly starting your vehicle and leaving it in “ready” mode for about 60 minutes before turning it off again so that both of your batteries continue to maintain their charges
• Keeping the gas tank full so condensation doesn’t develop and damage any parts of your vehicle
• Ensuring that you’re not leaving your car plugged in while parked for a long time, as that can cause damage to your battery
• Disconnecting the 12-volt battery if you know it’s going to be months in between driving trips
• Checking tire pressure regularly so that you know the vehicle will be ready to drive when the time comes

By taking some—or all—of these steps, you can be sure that your hybrid will be running smoothly whenever you’re ready to drive it again. And remember, consulting your driver’s manual would be wise, as it will contain instructions for storing your particular vehicle.

For more information on how long a hybrid car can sit unused or to learn more about investing in a hybrid battery replacement from Bumblebee Batteries, get in touch with us today. We would be happy to answer any questions you might have!