Whether you own a classic car, a seasonal vehicle, or simply need to store your car for an extended period of time, it’s essential to properly prepare your vehicle for long term storage. Neglecting to do so can result in damage to your car’s engine, tires, battery, and exterior. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about long term storage for cars.
1. Clean the Exterior and Interior
One of the first steps in preparing your car for long term storage is to clean both the exterior and interior thoroughly. This will help prevent any dirt, dust, and grime from causing damage to your vehicle while it’s in storage. Be sure to wash and wax the exterior, clean the interior, vacuum the carpets, and remove any trash or debris.
2. Change the Oil and Fluids
Before storing your car for an extended period, it’s important to change the oil and top off all other fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid. Old oil can degrade over time and cause corrosion in your engine, so it’s best to start fresh with clean oil before putting your car into storage.
3. Fill the Gas Tank and Add a Fuel Stabilizer
To prevent moisture from accumulating in your car’s fuel tank and fuel lines, it’s recommended to fill the gas tank before storing your car. Additionally, adding a fuel stabilizer can help prevent the gasoline from breaking down and causing damage to your engine during storage.
4. Remove the Battery or Use a Battery Tender
If you plan on storing your car for an extended period, it’s a good idea to either remove the battery or use a battery tender to keep it charged. This will prevent the battery from losing its charge and potentially causing starting issues when you’re ready to drive your car again.
5. Inflate the Tires and Use Tire Jacks
Properly inflated tires can help prevent flat spots and damage to your car’s tires during long term storage. Be sure to inflate your tires to the recommended pressure before storing your car. Additionally, using tire jacks or jack stands can help take the weight off your tires and prevent flat spots from forming.
6. Cover Your Car
To protect your car from dust, dirt, and other environmental elements, it’s a good idea to invest in a breathable car cover. A cover will help keep your car clean and free from scratches while it’s in storage. Be sure to choose a cover that’s specifically designed for long term storage.
7. Store Your Car in a Climate-Controlled Environment
If possible, store your car in a climate-controlled environment such as a garage or storage unit. Extreme temperature fluctuations can cause damage to your car’s engine, interior, and exterior. A climate-controlled environment will help maintain stable temperature and humidity levels while your car is in storage.
8. Check on Your Car Regularly
Even if you’ve taken all the necessary precautions to prepare your car for long term storage, it’s still important to check on your vehicle regularly. Start your car and let it run for a few minutes, check the tire pressure, and inspect the exterior and interior for any signs of damage or pests.
By following these tips for long term storage for cars, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition while it’s not in use. Properly preparing your car for storage will help prevent costly repairs and extend the life of your vehicle. Don’t forget to take the time to prepare your car before storing it for an extended period – your car will thank you.