My Vibe has been sitting for about six months: what maintenance will i need to perform?

[LarryKingsShoes]

Greetings!Last May, in an act of stupidity, I had an unfortunate boating accident. I was kayaking at a high rate of speed and smashed violently into a cruise liner. I haven't been able to drive since the incident. I'm slowly regaining confidence and was wondering what maintenance I should perform before driving regularly.I would frequently start the car and let it idle. I have also been checking the fluids. One concern of mine was that the gas has been very empty. I assumed that it would be better since the gas wouldn't settle as much. Now I'm worried that there may be some unforeseen consequences.I had my oil changed (fully synthetic) a few weeks prior so there are only a few hundred miles on the oil. Would it still be advised that I get an oil change? I figured I would, just to be on the safe side, but hopefully it's not too critical.I will likely send some fuel cleaner through the tank when I get it filled up, to be on the safe side. It isn't very costly and just may do some good.Aside from what's mentioned, what else should I look out for? My tires are in good repair and hold pressure nicely, so that's a relief.I appreciate any tips you guys may have!Best,LarryKingsShoes

[BlueCrush]

Sorry to hear about your accident! But let me see if I read it correctly...you smashed a kayak into a cruise ship at a high rate of speed? You must have injured your back pretty badly?I would think that a bottle of Techron and a full tank of fresh gas and you will be on your way. Only sitting 6 months and starting it regularly, you really shouldn't have any issues. Good Luck! Let us know how it goes.

[jake75]

My 2007 swb T&C sat on a dealer lot for about 6 months before I bought it - no issues. Had 46 miles on the odometer when I got it so it wasn't moved much.

[LarryKingsShoes]

Hey, thanks for the tips. The Vibe has been running very well so I figured there wouldn't be much that needed to be done. It never struggled to start. It idles a bit higher than normal but that only occurs if it hasn't been started for a week or two. I may have the oil changed just for good measure but if it isn't necessary, I may put it off until I put some more miles on the current oil.I'll look around for some Techron. I usually only see the Gumout varieties stocked in the stores around me. A trip to Autozone or a similar auto store may yield better results. It sounds like the Chevron stuff is preferred so I don't mind making a special trip.The accident wasn't as bad as it may sound, thankfully. It was just one of life's obstacles.

[Persephone]

Good, 'cause it sounds absolutely horrendous!!! lol