Don’t forget about your car during the COVID-19 period

Why should I check my car, even if it’s parked?

If you haven’t been using your car and it sits peacefully on the street for an extended period of time, be careful before driving it again. Contrary to popular belief, a parked car can degrade:

• You can see rust forming on the brakes when a car is parked for more than 3 days.
• The car battery can gradually drain when you car is parked. In cold weather, the battery efficiency is also reduced. Not using your car for several days, in addition to the cold, could cause your car not to start. Practical tip: turn everything off in your vehicle such as the defroster, headlights, heating, interior lighting, heated seat, radio, etc. This will reduce the energy required from your battery when starting your car.
• Do not leave your fuel tank empty, fill it at least halfway to reduce the risk of fuel line freezing. With the cold, condensation could form in the lines, which can prevent fuel circulation and your car engine from starting. 
• Remember to ventilate your car to prevent moisture from forming and mold from growing inside.
• Don’t leave your car parked with the hand brake on; extended time with the hand brake on can cause the springs to grip and block the wheel

We advise you to take a drive from time to time to prevent wear and tear from inactivity. If you notice anything abnormal on first use, don't hesitate to contact your Point S mechanic to verify that your car is still safe.

Should I disinfect my car?

Knowing that the virus can survive for several days on multiple surfaces, it is important to properly disinfect the interior of your vehicle regularly.

Please note, it is important not to use solvent-based products (alcohol, acetone, kerosene, etc.) and bleach. These products will damage the materials and leave a residue.

To disinfect, use specific cleaning products for the interior of the car, wipes with 70% isopropyl alcohol, or plain soap which is very effective against the virus.

Surfaces to be cleaned: (Focus on surfaces that you touch frequently)

• Steering wheel (and all buttons on it)
• Seat belt buckle
• Touchscreen
• Central vehicle control
• Gas tank cap
• All vehicle handles and controls
• Key and remote control
• Sun visor 

How to clean :

• Apply the product of your choice,
• Brush surfaces lightly to lather
• Let the product sit and do its work
• Then rinse the surface and if necessary, rinse several times.

If you have any questions, you can contact our specialists at your Auto Point S Center