Journal-News

Wheels: Delsie writes by e-mail, "In 2006, I parked my 2003 Chevrolet Impala at the airport for two weeks. On returning, all four brake rotors were badly rusted and out of round, which necessitated resurfacing all four rotors at a cost of $150 at my dealer.

I now have a 2008 Honda LX which I plan to park at the airport in September. My dealer says it is possible it can happen again, though they can't be sure and maybe it won't. Is there any way to avoid this problem? Thank you."

Halderman: No, there is nothing that can be done to prevent the rust, but it should not be a major problem. It is normal for all brake rotors to rust, and this can happen overnight. The rust, even over a two-week period, should not be too deep and should be removed during the first few stops. If the problem does not go away, try applying the brake pedal harder, making a faster stop to remove the rust. Some vehicles are more likely to have this problem than others, depending on the type of rotor and other factors.

Wheels: Does this mean that brake rotors can become rusty and need to be machined or replaced if left outside for a couple of weeks?

Halderman: Yes. Allowing a vehicle to sit unused can cause rusting of the brakes. In fact, the metallic brake pads can become rusted to the rotors to the extent that the vehicle cannot move. In this case, the vehicle would have to be taken to a shop on a flat-bed truck to have the brakes repaired. Even storing a vehicle inside without driving it can cause problems. What to do? Drive every vehicle regularly.

Wheels: What else can happen if a vehicle is left parked or stored for a long time without being driven?

Halderman: Moisture is the biggest cause of most of the deterioration that occurs. Vehicles in California are usually free of the kind of rust and corrosion that affects vehicles in the East and Midwest because of the drier air.

If a vehicle must be stored or not driven, try to locate a garage where it can be kept out of the weather. Even a carport is better than leaving a vehicle out unprotected as the sun can cause fading and can deteriorate plastic, such as many headlight covers.

If the vehicle is left outside, consider using a cardboard sun blocker that can be installed inside the windshield, using the sun visors to hold it in place.

Even window tint can help prevent sun damage. Consider a product, such as 3M Crystalline automotive window tint that is almost clear, to block 99.9 percent of the harmful UV rays, which will keep the inside of the vehicle cooler and help protect the interior materials.

Note to the readers: Tomorrow is the first day of fall and it is time to change the engine oil and filter if you are following the seasons. I will remind you again around

Dec. 21, the first day of winter.

James D. Halderman is an ASE-certified master technician, a

member of the Society of Automotive Engineers and the author of 12 textbooks. Submit your automotive care questions to Halderman via e-mail at jhalderman2@juno.com, or write him in care of: Wheels, Marketing Publications Department, Dayton Daily News, 1611 S. Main St., Dayton OH 45409.