Hindi ibig sabihin na automatic masisira ang tires kapag hindi ginamit ang sasakyan for a few days or weeks. Pero kapag matagal itong nakatigil, especially for several weeks or months, puwedeng magkaroon ng issues such as flat spots, pressure loss, and rubber deterioration.

This is especially important if you have a second car, work from home, travel frequently, or leave your vehicle unused for long periods.

Here are the main tire problems that can happen when a car stays parked for too long.

1. Your Tires Can Develop Flat Spots

One of the most common concerns is flat spotting.

When a vehicle stays in the same position for a long time, the same section of each tire continuously supports the vehicle's weight.

Over time, that part of the tire can become temporarily flattened.

What Does a Flat Spot Feel Like?

Kapag ginamit mo ulit ang vehicle, you may notice:

• Vibration

• Bumpy ride

• Slight shaking

• Thumping feeling while driving

In some cases, temporary flat spots may improve after the tires warm up and the vehicle is driven for a while.

However, if the vehicle has been parked for a very long time or the tires are already old, the deformation may be more noticeable or persistent.

2. Tire Pressure Can Gradually Drop

Tires naturally lose some air pressure over time, even when the vehicle is not being driven.

So kung ilang weeks or months naka-park ang car, possible na mas mababa na ang pressure when you use it again.

Underinflated tires can affect:

• Handling

• Tire wear

• Fuel efficiency

• Ride comfort

• Tire temperature

Before driving a vehicle that has been parked for a long time, always check the tire pressure first.

Follow the Recommended Tire Pressure

Use the pressure recommended by your vehicle manufacturer.

You can usually find this information on the driver's side door jamb or in the owner's manual.

Avoid using only the maximum pressure printed on the tire sidewall as your regular target.

3. Tires Can Age Even When You're Not Driving

Hindi kailangan na ginagamit ang tire para mag-age.

Rubber naturally changes over time because of exposure to heat, sunlight, oxygen, moisture, and environmental conditions.

So even if a vehicle only travels a few kilometers every month, the tires can still deteriorate.

This is why low mileage does not always mean a tire is still in excellent condition.

If your car has been stored for a long period, inspect the tires for signs of aging before using it regularly again.

4. Cracking Can Become More Noticeable

Cars parked outdoors can expose their tires to sunlight and heat for long periods.

UV exposure and high temperatures can contribute to rubber deterioration over time.

You may start seeing small cracks on the sidewall or around the tread area.

Hindi lahat ng small surface cracks ay automatic dangerous, but deeper or widespread cracking should be professionally inspected.

Parking Location Matters

Where you park can make a difference.

A vehicle parked under direct sunlight every day may experience different conditions compared with one stored in a covered garage.

If possible, park in a shaded or covered area when the vehicle will not be used for an extended period.

5. One Area of the Tire Carries the Load for Too Long

Normally, when you drive, different parts of the tire continuously rotate and support the vehicle.

Kapag naka-park lang ang car, one section stays compressed under the vehicle's weight.

This becomes more important with heavier vehicles such as SUVs, pickups, and some hybrid or electric vehicles.

Proper tire pressure helps the tires support the vehicle correctly while parked.

If the tires are already underinflated before storage, the risk of deformation can become greater.

How Long Is Too Long to Leave a Car Parked?

There is no single number that applies to every vehicle and tire.

A car parked for several days is usually not a major concern.

For longer periods, such as several weeks or months, tire condition becomes more important.

Factors that can affect the tires include:

• Tire age

• Tire pressure

• Vehicle weight

• Parking surface

• Weather

• Sun exposure

• Existing tire condition

Instead of focusing only on the number of days, inspect the tires before driving again.

How to Protect Your Tires During Long-Term Parking

If you know that your car will not be used for a while, a few simple steps can help protect the tires.

Check the Tire Pressure

Make sure all tires are properly inflated before leaving the vehicle parked.

Underinflated tires can place more stress on the sidewalls and contact area.

Park on a Clean, Level Surface

If possible, park on a flat and solid surface.

Avoid leaving the vehicle for long periods on uneven ground, sharp gravel, or surfaces that could damage the tires.

Move the Vehicle Occasionally

If practical, move or drive the vehicle periodically.

This changes which part of the tire supports the vehicle's weight and also helps keep other vehicle components in use.

Even a short drive can be better than allowing the vehicle to remain in exactly the same position for months.

Keep the Tires Out of Direct Sunlight

A garage or covered parking area can help reduce long-term exposure to sunlight and weather.

If covered parking is not available, regular tire inspection becomes even more important.

What Should You Check Before Driving Again?

If your car has been parked for a long time, huwag agad mag-long drive.

Check:

• Tire pressure

• Tread condition

• Sidewall cracks

• Bulges

• Cuts

• Unusual deformation

• Visible objects in the tread

During the first drive, pay attention to vibration or unusual handling.

If the vibration does not disappear or something feels wrong, have the tires inspected before continuing with regular driving.

Conclusion

Parking your car for too long can affect your tires, especially if the vehicle stays in the same position for several weeks or months.

Possible issues include pressure loss, flat spots, cracking, and general tire aging.

The good news is that simple maintenance can help. Check the tire pressure, inspect the tires regularly, park in a covered area when possible, and move the vehicle occasionally.

If your tires already show significant wear or damage, you can explore Michelin tires in the Philippines or compare available BFGoodrich tires based on your vehicle and driving needs.

You can also read our guides on What to look for when buying new tires, How to Read tire size, Tires pressure guide, and Tire Expiration guide for more tire tips.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can tires get damaged if a car is parked for a month?

They can develop pressure loss or temporary flat spots, especially if the tires are underinflated. Check their condition before driving again.

2. Can flat spots disappear after driving?

Some temporary flat spots may improve once the tires warm up during driving. Persistent vibration should be professionally inspected.

3. Should I inflate my tires before leaving my car parked?

Yes. Make sure the tires are inflated according to the vehicle manufacturer's recommended pressure.

4. Do tires still age if the car is not being used?

Yes. Tire rubber continues to age due to heat, sunlight, oxygen, moisture, and other environmental factors.

5. What should I check after leaving my car parked for months?

Check tire pressure, cracks, tread condition, bulges, cuts, and unusual deformation. If something looks or feels unusual, have the tires inspected before regular use.