Vehicles can be stored for a long time for a variety of reasons. Sometimes, owners want to store their cars during winter until better driving weather returns in the spring. For others, it may be due to an extended vacation, a temporary relocation for a work assignment, or even a military deployment. Storing your car for ample time requires specific preparations to keep it safe and protected while it hibernates. Here are some essential storage tips and considerations to keep in mind.
- Keep It Covered.
It is ideal for storing a vehicle in a garage. It will protect it from the elements and keep it at a relatively stable temperature. If you don’t have a garage and can find accommodation at a reasonable price, consider putting the car in a public storage facility.
If you have to leave the car outdoors, consider getting a weatherproof car cover, which will help keep the car clean and dry.
- Fill Up the Tank.
Fuel tanks can rust when they are left empty for a long time. The best way to combat this is to fill the tank with fuel. Topping it off allows no room for air and water to enter the tank and corrode it from the inside. Adding a fuel stabilizer will also help prevent rust and corrosion. Remember that fuel will not be useable after several months, so plan on draining it once you are ready to drive the car again.
- Change the Oil.
Over time, oil can damage engine components when it sits. If the vehicle will be in storage for several months or longer, changing the oil to be fresh and clean makes sense. But, like the fuel, plan to change the oil again when taking the car out of storage unless you elect to use synthetic oil.
- Clean It Up.
The car should be washed before it’s stored for months, even if it seems counterintuitive. Water stains or bird droppings left on the car can damage the paint. Make sure to clean the wheels and undersides of the fenders to get rid of mud, grease, or tar. For added protection, give the car a coat of wax.
- Keep It Charged.
An unattended battery will inevitably lose its charge over time. Get someone to start the car every two weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes if possible. Driving a car has several benefits. It will maintain the battery’s charge, help the car “stretch its legs,” and keep the engine and other components adequately lubricated. It is also a good idea to run the air conditioner to keep the parts in working order and the air quality fresh.
Two other options are available if someone cannot start the car. The low-tech solution is to disconnect the negative battery cable. You’ll likely lose the stereo presets, time, and other settings. If you want to keep those settings and ensure that your battery starts the moment you return, purchase a battery tender, also known as a trickle charger. This device hooks your car battery on one end and plugs it into a wall outlet. It delivers just enough electrical power to prevent the battery from discharging.
- Plug the Exhaust Outlet.
By closing the tailpipe, rodents, spiders, and other pests cannot gain access to the house. Stuffing a rag into the exhaust or sealing it off with aluminum foil will do the trick. The same goes for other openings, such as air intakes. But remember to unplug these entry points before restarting and driving the car.
- Don’t Use the Parking Brake.
Don’t use the parking brake when leaving a car in storage, even if you usually use it. If the brake pads make contact with the rotors for too long, there is a chance that they might fuse. Instead, purchase a tire stopper, also called a chock, to prevent the car from moving.
- Park on a Tarp.
The floor will be protected from vehicle leaks by a tarp. It will also protect the tires from oils and elements seeping up from the ground.
It takes some effort and mindfulness to prepare to store your car. By taking the right steps, the car will require minimal rejuvenation when it is time to get back on the road.
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