Unusual circumstance

I am going away for 5 weeks from mid-February, and will leave my car on a friend's land, but in the open and uncovered, during that time. I plan to leave the handbrake off to avoid the brakes seizing, but my friend has suggested that he should start the engine once a week. Is this a good idea, or is it better to leave it alone? Is there anything else I should do? I have read your advice on long-term storage, but I assume that much of this is unnecessary for only 5 weeks.

Asked on 28 February 2009 by

Answered by Honest John
I left a Focus 1.6TDCI and a FIAT 500 for 5 weeks untouched through the cold spell over Christmas and New Year. Best not to start the car. But do remember to switch everything off BEFORE you switch off the ignition: radio, interior light, heater fan, everything electrical. They don't all always completely switch off with the ignition and can cause a drain. I hope you are not parking over grass.
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