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I need to travel to the east coast and work from there for a duration of 5 months. I can leave my car in covered parking here and ask a friend to start the car for a few minutes every week.

What possible issues could I face with the car maintenance when I return? Or what issues can arise since the car will not have been driven for a long period?

The car is a Honda Civic 2008 in good condition.

Also, I have the option of shipping the car to east coast - but it would cost me anywhere from 850 - 1000 dollars.

Nick C
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vivekian2
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    The two biggest things here is 1) that the battery is going to be useless when you return and 2) your wheel bearings would have pitted slightly from the weight of the car pressing down on them without any motion. #2 is a problem mobile home owners encounter a lot. Have your friend drive it once a week at least. – Captain Kenpachi Oct 29 '13 at 08:41
  • brake caliper pistons can rust. 2) fuel must be full tank if it is true fuel without bio ethanol (in europe it is about 10%). Full because of condensation. You didn't mentioned weather conditions (winter,summer ..). Also it's most of the time dry or wet. Different story when it is kept in garage, where temperature is above zero (celsius).
  • – Guntis Jul 07 '16 at 18:47
  • This winter I didn't drive my car (7 months). Its 99 volvo c70 coupe. It all winter was outside, not covered. I drive it maybe once per month about 8 km each time. On time i drive ~ 150km. After winter i changed one break caliper piston (rusted). Inside all was ok and dry. – Guntis Jul 07 '16 at 18:56