Turning Engine Over On Stationary Car.... Right Or Wrong?

[dunnitall]

I have voluntarily given up driving because of health so car is in garage until family member, named driver takes it occasionally. My OH who doesn't drive occasionally goes to garage to start and run the engine for five minutes or so.

The family member says not to do that as it will run the battery flat without it being given a run....are they right as I'm unsure? Thanks for any replies.

[goodgoalie]

I think they're right - I've just had to get a new battery for my car after about 6 years as I use it just for short journeys. I'd get some sort of trickle charger, and leave it on that. This one's only £25:
https://www.halfords.com/workshop-tools/garage-equipment/battery-chargers-jump-starters/halfords-maintenance-charger

[ABSpareEditor]

I have moved this thread into the category "Motoring".

[gingejbee]

Yes, they probably are....you could use a "trickle-charger" to keep the battery in good condition....oh, and move the car occasionally so the tyres don't get slightly mis-shapen (which can happen in warmer weather if a car is immobile for a long period).

[dunnitall]

Thanks spareEd wasn't sure. Thanks for answers guys ok will leave it as they give it a run and I will see about trickle charger too and tyre tip.

[johnk]

Why not just sell it?

[10ClarionSt]

I'm no expert but I think running the engine for 5/10 should be enough to re-charge the battery. The alternator performs much better than the old dynamo. I would also try and operate the clutch and brakes to prevent them from seizing up.

[bhg481]

The most damage is caused to an engine in the first moments/minutes of running on a cold start; all the clearances are wrong, the oil has drained into the sump and is at its thickest so takes a while to circulate. For every gallon of petrol you burn you produce a gallon of water. When the system is cold the water condenses in the exhaust system and starts to corrode it; at operating temperature the exhaust is hot and the water evaporates out, leaving a dry exhaust system. In other words, the cruellest thing you can do to an engine is run it for a few minutes every few weeks.
If you love your car connect it to a trickle charger and every few weeks roll it forwards or backwards just to change the tyre positions; better still, jack it up and put it on axle stands to take the weight completely off tthe tyres.

[ToraToraTora]

you must run it for at least 20 mins or use a trickle charger.

[nescio]

also, if it is going to be left for long periods - say a couple of months - do not leave the handbrake on. They have a tendency to seize. Chock the wheels instead.