Whether you’re going on an extended vacation, deploying overseas, or simply have a classic car that you don’t drive year-round, knowing how to properly store your vehicle for an extended period of time is crucial to keeping it in top condition Long term car storage requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that your vehicle remains in good shape while it’s not being used In this guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about long term storage for your car.
First and foremost, it’s important to find a suitable storage location for your vehicle Ideally, you’ll want to keep your car in a dry, climate-controlled environment, such as a garage or storage unit If a climate-controlled space isn’t an option, at the very least make sure the storage area is covered and protected from the elements Exposure to extreme temperatures, humidity, and precipitation can cause damage to your vehicle over time.
Before you park your car in storage, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out Remove any trash, food crumbs, and personal items from the interior, and vacuum the floors and seats Wash the exterior of the car to remove dirt, grime, and any corrosive substances that could damage the paint over time Don’t forget to clean the wheels, tires, and undercarriage as well.
Next, top off all the fluids in your car, including the oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid It’s also a good idea to add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent the fuel from breaking down and causing problems when you start the car up again long term storage for car. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from forming while the car is in storage.
When it comes to the battery, there are a few options for long term storage You can either disconnect the battery and remove it from the car, or you can leave it connected and use a battery tender to keep it charged while the car is not in use If you choose to leave the battery in the car, be sure to start the engine and let it run for a few minutes every couple of weeks to keep the battery charged.
To prevent pests from making a home in your car while it’s in storage, place mothballs or cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil inside the car to repel rodents and insects You can also use rodent repellent spray on the exterior of the car to keep critters away.
If you’re storing your car for an extended period of time, it’s a good idea to invest in a quality car cover to protect the exterior from dust, dirt, and UV rays Make sure the cover is breathable to prevent moisture from getting trapped underneath and causing mold or mildew to form on the paint.
Before you park your car in storage, take the time to document its condition with photos and notes This will help you keep track of any changes that occur while the car is in storage and make it easier to address any issues that arise when you take the car out of storage.
When it’s time to take your car out of storage, be sure to check the fluids, tires, and battery before attempting to start the engine It’s a good idea to change the oil and filter, as well as check the brakes, suspension, and other systems to ensure everything is in working order before you hit the road again.
In conclusion, long term storage for your car requires careful planning and preparation to ensure that your vehicle remains in good condition while it’s not being used By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can keep your car safe and well-maintained during extended periods of storage With a little bit of effort up front, you can enjoy your car for years to come.