2021 is very likely to be the summer of the staycation, as foreign travel options remain very uncertain. This will place added and perhaps different demands on car usage and automotive technical information specialist Autodata has taken a look at what this might mean for garages.  

The Autodata technical team say lack of use can damage tyres if they are left to stand without being rotated, as consistent pressure on one angle leads to flat-spotting. Where a vehicle has been stationery under vehicle load for a month or more this can lead to semi-permanent flat-spotting; causing vibration, inconsistent handling and even a puncture.

The team also points out that TPMS sensors can sometimes trigger a warning light after hitting a pothole or speed hump. Often the TPMS indicator light can be reset by driving the car at 50mph for 10 minutes. Failing that, the following methods are likely to be effective:

-    Disconnect the battery; turn the ignition key to ‘On’ and actuate the horn. This will discharge remaining power in the vehicle circuit. Reconnect the battery.

-    Overinflate the tyre by 3 PSI (0.2 Bar) then deflate them completely. Reinflate the tyres to the correct PSI. This should force the sensors to update.

Spare tyres also increasingly have a TPMS sensor so when diagnosing a persistent TPMS warning light technicians should make sure the spare tyre is inflated correctly.

Brakes: Seized brake calipers and stuck pads can be a serious issue for vehicles left outside in the damp over an extended period of time. A brake inspection to reveal any faults should be part of any post work-from-home staycation service.

Engine oil: Cars left standing for a long period of time can suffer from oil seepage. This is especially crucial for diesel engines. If the vehicle has missed an oil change it should be advised before distance travel.

Air conditioning:  Air conditioning regeneration should be recommended as cars used sparingly can accumulate moisture in the system. As well as creating an unpleasant musty smell, this can corrode the valves or rubber seals. Autodata’s Air Conditioning module contains essential system information, layout and wiring diagrams for technicians.

Windscreen wipers:  Cold conditions will degrade the rubber portion of a wiper blade, which should be replaced at least once a year, making new wipers a simple upsell for a post-lockdown service.

Suspension and wheel alignment: Roads have degraded in the last year as repair works have been more limited. This means more damage to suspension and more wheel alignments opportunities.
 
Battery:  Autodata has been seeing around twice the usage of its Battery module in winter months. Battery condition will have deteriorated with less vehicle usage so a check and possible replacement is recommended. Autodata has a battery module offering information on battery disconnection and replacement.

Chris Wright, Managing Director of Autodata says, “Autodata has been working hard during lockdown to ensure our product is as up-to-date as possible. Technical data doesn’t stay static and our online workshop application solution is regularly updated with the latest manufacturer repair information to reflect real-world data on how fast parts wear and issues which may arise. We offer a Service & Maintenance subscription with essential technical information, service schedules and repair times for workshops, as well as a comprehensive Diagnostic & Repair version with diagnostic trouble codes, wiring diagrams, faults and fixes and more.”