If you’re planning on storing your car for an extended period of time, whether it’s due to a long trip, moving, or any other reason, it’s important to take the necessary steps to ensure that your vehicle remains in good condition while it’s not being used. Improper storage can lead to a variety of issues, such as flat tires, dead batteries, and even damage to the engine or other components. In this blog post, we’ll discuss some tips on how to properly store your car for an extended period of time.
1. Clean your car thoroughly before storing it
Before putting your car into storage, it’s important to give it a thorough cleaning both inside and out. This will help prevent any dirt, dust, or debris from causing damage to the paint or interior while the car is not being used. Make sure to also clean the undercarriage of the vehicle to remove any debris that could attract pests or cause corrosion.
2. Change the oil and top off all fluids
It’s always a good idea to change the oil in your car before storing it for an extended period of time. This will help prevent any contaminants from building up in the engine and causing damage. Additionally, make sure to top off all other fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, to ensure that they are at the appropriate levels.
3. Fill up the gas tank
Before storing your car, make sure to fill up the gas tank completely. This will help prevent moisture from building up in the fuel system and causing issues such as rust or corrosion. Additionally, adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank can help prevent the fuel from breaking down over time.
4. Disconnect the battery or use a battery tender
If you’re planning on storing your car for an extended period of time, it’s important to either disconnect the battery or use a battery tender to keep it charged. A battery tender is a device that can be connected to the battery to provide a low, constant charge to keep it from dying. This will help prevent any issues with starting the car when you’re ready to use it again.
5. Protect the tires
When storing your car for an extended period of time, it’s important to take steps to protect the tires from damage. One way to do this is by overinflating the tires slightly to prevent flat spots from forming. Additionally, placing the car on jack stands can help take some of the weight off the tires and prevent them from developing flat spots.
6. Cover the car
To protect your car from dust, moisture, and other environmental factors, it’s a good idea to cover it with a breathable car cover. This will help keep the paint and interior of the car clean and free from damage while it’s not being used. Make sure to choose a cover that is specifically designed for long-term storage to ensure that it provides adequate protection.
7. Store the car in a secure location
When storing your car for an extended period of time, it’s important to choose a secure location that is protected from the elements. Ideally, the storage area should be climate-controlled to prevent temperature extremes that could damage the car. If you’re storing the car outside, consider investing in a carport or storage shed to provide additional protection.
8. Check on the car periodically
Even if you’ve taken all the necessary steps to properly store your car, it’s still a good idea to check on it periodically to ensure that everything is in good condition. Make sure to start the car and let it run for a few minutes to keep the engine components lubricated. Additionally, check the tires for any signs of damage or flat spots, and inspect the interior of the car for any signs of pests or moisture.
By following these tips, you can help ensure that your car remains in good condition while it’s being stored for an extended period of time. Properly storing your car can help prevent costly damage and keep the vehicle running smoothly when you’re ready to use it again. So, before you park your car for an extended period of time, take the time to prepare it properly for storage to ensure that it stays in top condition.
