Do you frequently take your car out for a short drive? This could be doing more harm to your vehicle's health than you realise.
Whilst we can’t avoid making short trips altogether, there are things we can do to minimise the damage.
Read on and find out what short journeys are doing to your car and how to prevent any unnecessary wear and tear.
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Are Short Trips Bad for Your Car?
A short trip can be classed as any journey in which your engine doesn’t reach full operating temperature – let’s say anything under 10 miles.
When you only travel a short distance in your car, the engine won’t be able to reach optimal temperature.
This can lead to incomplete combustion, and the alternator won’t have enough time to properly charge the battery.
Other downsides to always driving short distances include:
- Additional strain on the battery
- Oil can be less effective
- Strain on starter motor and ignition system
- Decreased emission control system efficiency
- Increased brake wear
- Increased engine wear
- Spoiled engine oil
Taking Shorter Trips in Diesel Vehicles
In diesel vehicles, taking frequent short trips can cause the diesel particulate filter (DPF) to become blocked.
Make sure you take your car for a longer drive at a consistent speed above 40mph for at least 20 minutes to activate the regeneration process needed to burn off the accumulated soot in the filter.
Booking a DPF clean when needed can also help to keep your diesel engine running smoothly - neglecting to do so can lead to a more expensive repair if the filter becomes seriously clogged.
Is It Bad to Drive Your Car Every Day?
Driving your vehicle every day isn't inherently bad, as long as you maintain it and practice gentle driving habits.
Just as leaving your car idle in a garage for a while can do some damage, driving every day can lead to additional wear and tear.
You should be driving your car, if possible, at least around once a week to keep it in good working condition.
Though, of course, how often you need to drive your car will depend on you - factors such as your job, hobbies and location can all dictate how much you need to use your car.
If you do tend to drive short distances more frequently, try and take your car out for a longer drive every now and then to give the engine a chance to fully warm up.
How to Prevent the Damage Caused by Short Trips
To limit the damage caused by always driving short distances, it can help to consolidate any trips or errands you need to make into one longer journey.
Opting to walk or cycle from time to time if the option is available can give you an opportunity to exercise and clear your head, without having to spend on petrol and other car costs.
If you are heading out for a quick trip, keep the following advice in mind:
- Drive gently for the first few miles
- Avoid harsh acceleration
- Turn off accessories e.g. radio, A/C
- Keep tyres properly inflated
- Check battery charge
- Use a trickle charger
- Don’t ignore your DPF warning light
Practicing good driving habits can help you cut emissions and reduce unnecessary wear and tear.
Keeping up with your servicing and maintenance schedules is a great way to further protect your engine, too.
Topping up your oil, coolant and antifreeze levels regularly can all help to keep your engine working well.
Don't forget to take your car out for a longer drive when possible to give your battery time to fully recharge and for the contaminants in your oil to evaporate.
