There are times when our cars sit idle for weeks or even months. Maybe you’re working from home, traveling, or simply not driving as often. While this might seem harmless, leaving a car stationary can make the battery lose charge and become flat. Without regular use, the battery isn’t recharged by the engine, and factors like parasitic drain from electronics or extreme temperatures can make the problem worse. Understanding how this happens can help you take steps to prevent a dead battery.
How Long Can a Car Battery Stay Charged Without Being Driven?
A car battery can usually last between one to two months without being driven. However, this depends on its condition and how the car is stored.
A newer, well-maintained battery holds a charge longer than an older one. Storage conditions also matter. A car kept in a climate-controlled garage will experience less drain than one left in extreme heat or cold.
Together, these factors decide how long your battery stays charged when the car isn’t in use.
Factors that affect how long a battery stays charged include:
- Battery age: Older batteries lose charge faster, even when not in use.
- Storage conditions: Hot weather wears out the battery faster, and cold weather makes it lose charge quicker.
- Battery type: AGM batteries hold a charge longer than regular lead-acid batteries. Check out our detailed article on AGM vs. Lead Acid Battery.
- Parasitic drain: Systems like alarms or remote starters slowly use up the battery, even when the car is off.
- Electrical issues: Faulty wiring or components can cause a slow drain, even when the car is off.
Related: How Long Does a Car Battery Last?
How to Keep Your Car Battery Charged When Not Driving
If you’re not planning to drive your car for a while, keeping the battery charged is important. Here are some easy ways to maintain your car battery’s charge when it’s not in use:
- Use a battery maintainer: A trickle charger keeps the battery charged without overcharging it.
- Disconnect the battery: If you won’t use the car for a while, disconnect the battery to stop it from draining.
- Store in a cool, dry place: Keep your car in a place with steady temperatures to protect the battery. To learn more about the best practices for storing a car battery, check out our article on how to store a car battery properly.
- Turn off all electronics: Make sure lights, alarms, or other systems are off to prevent power drain.
- Start the car occasionally: Start your car every couple of weeks and let it run for 10-15 minutes to recharge the battery.
Related: Tips to Maintain Your Car Battery
Summary
To keep your car battery from going flat, it’s important to check it often when your car isn’t being used. Simple steps, like using a battery maintainer or storing your car in a safe, temperature-controlled place, can help keep your battery in good condition for when you need it.
If your battery does go flat, don’t worry — Neighborhood Roadside Assistance is here to help. Contact us for a fast and reliable car jumpstart a car battery replacement to get you back on the road in no time.