8 Minute Read

Ancillary Systems

Posted by - Tim Earnshaw on 21 July 2016 (Updated 24 September 2020)
Categories: Advice, Tips & Tricks
Ancillary Systems

Ancillary systems are non mechanical systems mostly used within the cabin of the car. If they are neglected they can cause a great deal of trouble.

Electric motors

Whether powering window or sunroof motors, cooling fans, ventilation systems, seat adjusters, radio aerials, convertible roofs, windscreen wipers & washers, central locking systems, clocks, mirrors and all of their associated mechanisms, gears, slides, window guides etc. – all are prone to malfunction if not used for extended periods due to oxidation and oil gumming. Professional vehicle storage companies offering either short and/or long term car storage should perform monthly exercising of all ancillaries to prevent this – or show up latent problems for correction before the car is returned to the owner.

ICE (In Car Entertainment)

ICE (In Car Entertainment) also need regular use, not only to exercise but to ensure anti theft code memory batteries are kept charged.

Air Conditioning Systems

Seals in the air conditioning system dry out if not used periodically. When these seals dry out, the Freon refrigerant can escape, rendering the system inoperative. If the system is used on a regular basis the refrigerant, which contains a lubricant, is allowed to circulate around the system feeding and maintaining the seals. Windrush car storage runs the air conditioning system as part of our maintenance service to prevent this.

Ancillary systems are non mechanical systems mostly used within the cabin of the car. If they are neglected they can cause a great deal of trouble. Electric motors Whether powering window or sunroof motors, cooling fans, ventilation systems, seat adjusters, radio aerials, convertible roofs, windscreen wipers & washers, central locking systems, clocks, mirrors and all of their associated mechanisms, gears, slides, window guides etc. – all are prone to malfunction if not used for extended periods due to oxidation and oil gumming. Professional vehicle storage companies offering either short and/or long term car storage should perform monthly exercising of all ancillaries to prevent this – or show up latent problems for correction before the car is returned to the owner. ICE (In Car Entertainment) ICE (In Car Entertainment) also need regular use, not only to exercise but to ensure anti theft code memory batteries are kept charged. Air Conditioning Systems Seals in the air conditioning system dry out if not used periodically. When these seals dry out, the Freon refrigerant can escape, rendering the system inoperative. If the system is used on a regular basis the refrigerant, which contains a lubricant, is allowed to circulate around the system feeding and maintaining the seals. Windrush car storage runs the air conditioning system as part of our maintenance service to prevent this.
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