Nissan offers 5 tips for cars parked amid pandemic

As we all stay at home to survive the Covid-19 onslaught. I noticed the last time I started my car, it didn't seem to have the same "zip" as before. When this press release hit my inbox, I thought it must have been kismet. Obviously from my experience, Number 1 is extremely important - Keep the battery charged. Since we're sorta stuck inside these days (and for the foreseeable future) I try to take the long route to get to the necessary visits like food shopping, doctor's visits, etc. Since I do that, I'm taking care of #2 - Drive around the block. Check the fluids, aka #3 is a good idea anytime as is #4 Maintain recommended tire pressure. Both tips help your vehicle perform at its best. The last tip, #5 - Wash your vehicle, assumes a yard or open self-wash center where you can get out the hose and do it yourself. They also mention that by doing it yourself, you relieve some stress, get some exercise, and relieve boredom. Plus it's good for your car. Some of these tips are common-sense jobs that many do anyway. But with the current disruption to our lives, It's always a good idea to get a little reminder. Thanks Nissan. Click on image to enlarge.

Source: Nissan provided pictures and press release. More after the "read more" jump.

Nissan’s top 5 car care tips for when you’re parked at home

• A vehicle’s battery, tires and fluids are areas to watch and can be maintained with simple actions
• Keeping a vehicle clean to protect the paint can be a great family-friendly activity

There are a few simple vehicle-care techniques for drivers to remember when they may not be driving, or driving infrequently.

"The shelter-in-place orders in effect throughout much of the United States and Canada mean that many vehicles are seeing infrequent, if any, use," said Ryan Fulkerson, director, New Model Engineering, Nissan North America. "The longer a vehicle sits unused, the more likely it is to develop issues. By taking a few key steps, drivers can keep their cars running smoothly."
Here are five tips from Nissan:

1. Keep the battery charged – a short drive or a trickle charger will work.
2. Drive around the block – this keeps the battery charged and fluids circulating.
3. Check the fluids – maintaining proper oil and transmission fluid levels will prevent problems down the road.
4. Maintain recommended tire pressure – this helps to prevent flat spots when your vehicle is sitting.
5. Wash your vehicle regularly – this helps to protect the paint, especially for vehicles parked outdoors.

"Following some of these tips will help to keep your car in shape," said Fulkerson. "Washing a car yourself can also relieve boredom and be a great activity for the entire family."

If a vehicle requires more attention, remember that automotive dealerships and their service departments are deemed essential services while many businesses around the country are closed in response to government mandates aimed at slowing the spread of COVID-19. As a result, many Nissan service departments remain open and are available to assist with vehicle service and repairs. Many are offering no-contact drop off or at-home pick-up and delivery.

About Nissan North America
In North America, Nissan's operations include automotive styling, engineering, consumer and corporate financing, sales and marketing, distribution, and manufacturing. Nissan is dedicated to improving the environment under the Nissan Green Program and has been recognized annually by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency as an ENERGY STAR® Partner of the Year since 2010. More information on Nissan in North America and the complete line of Nissan and INFINITI vehicles can be found online at www.nissanusa.com and www.infinitiusa.com, or visit the U.S. media sites nissannews.com and infinitinews.com.