Since the pandemic began in March, many drivers have spent a lot more time at home, maybe using their vehicles once or twice a week for trips to the doctor or grocery store.

That might have led to savings on gasoline and other costs, but experts say a vehicle is like the human body and needs regular exercise to remain in top shape. That’s why AAA is encouraging motorists to pay extra attention this year to preparing vehicles for upcoming winter weather, especially batteries.

Jim Garrity, public and legislative affairs manager for AAA East Central in Pittsburgh, said the agency is concerned it could see a rash of dead batteries when the first cold snap hits.

“It’s something people don’t think about,” said Mr. Garrity. “Just because a vehicle has been sitting around, that doesn’t mean nothing can go wrong. The battery is always running even when the car is just sitting there to run the clock and other items.

“When you’re not running the vehicle for a longer period of time, you’re allowing the battery to lose power. You’re accelerating the rate at which your battery is going to die.”

With the pandemic limiting driving for many people, Mr. Garrity is encouraging motorists to drive about a half-hour a week to keep their vehicle’s systems in top shape.

A car battery isn’t the only thing that can develop problems from little use, said Don Ruffing of Ruffing Automotive on West Liberty Avenue in Dormont.

For example, brake rotors — a key element in stopping a car — can corrode quickly if a vehicle is left outside, especially in cold weather. Mr. Ruffing said regular driving knocks off that corrosion and prevents it from forming.

Tires can develop flat spots if vehicles are left sitting in the same place for an extended period, leading to a rough ride and potential difficulty stopping. That, too, can correct itself with regular use, Mr Ruffing said.

Another common problem this year has been worn-out wiper blades, partially from lack of use and partially from hot, dry weather this summer.

“They’re just dry-rotted,” Mr. Ruffing said. “At one point, we ran out of them this summer. They just stick to the windshield.”

Mr. Garrity said AAA is recommending motorists have their batteries checked before winter, especially if the battery is more than three years old. For members, the agency will send a technician to check battery power at no cost.

The agency also recommends motorists to keep tires properly inflated; check all fluid levels; and look at belts and hoses for signs of leaks or fraying.

“When we have our first cold stretch, we always see an increase in dead batteries,” he said. “Now, with the added factor of people not driving as much, we’re concerned that there could be even more.”

Ed Blazina: eblazina@post-gazette.com, 412-263-1470 r on Twitter @EdBlazina.

First Published: October 11, 2020, 9:45 a.m.
Updated: October 11, 2020, 3:12 p.m.