Introduction
Proper car storage is essential for your vehicle’s performance, look, and value. Whether you plan to store your vehicle for a few months during a seasonal break or intend to keep it in long-term storage, proper storage will help prevent damage and costly repairs. Cars left inactive for long periods can suffer from battery drain, flat spots on tires, and degraded washer fluid. Knowing how to prepare your vehicle, provide the proper storage environment, and take care of it while it’s in storage will ensure your vehicle is in excellent condition for driving when you want.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The first step in protecting your vehicle is to choose the proper storage. Indoor storage, such as a garage or storage unit, is always preferable because it protects your vehicle from harsh weather, sunlight, and dust. If indoor storage is not an option, then a carport or outdoor storage with a quality car cover (ideally one that fits properly) would be option two. Ensure the storage area is also dry and well-ventilated to avoid moisture issues such as rust, mould, etc. Avoid parking on dirt or grass, as this increases the risk of corrosion. Ideally, you want to park your vehicle on either level, paved, sustainable surfaces for extended storage periods.
Preparing the Car for Storage
Before you store your car, you have to prepare it properly. Wash and wax the exterior so dirt and moisture don’t get on the paint. Clean the interior and remove food crumbs or other debris to prevent pests. Examine the fluids, including oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Topping up fluids helps prevent internal damage if your car sits unused for weeks or months. Fill the fuel tank – this can help reduce the accumulated moisture. If you plan on storing your vehicle for a few months, you can add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the fuel from degrading so that you can start the engine when needed.
Maintaining the Battery
The car battery is most likely to be affected by prolonged inactivity. If you store a battery, you always want to charge it beforehand so it does not discharge completely. If you plan to store the car for an extended period, disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to keep the battery charged. Discharged batteries can lose capacity or damage themselves over time, which can be challenging when starting the car. Checking the battery periodically helps you avoid unexpected issues when it’s time to drive again.
Tire Care During Storage
If your car sits, you may have flat spots on your tires. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s specifications pre-storage. If you can prop the car up on some jack stands, that is the best way to entirely relieve the weight from the tires. For seasonal storage, this step isn’t necessary, but for long-term storage, it’s worth relieving the weight on the tires and suspension. In any case, always check your tires for cracks or damage before storing and after you get it out to drive. Safe driving conditions matter!
Protecting the Engine and Mechanical Components
Extended periods of inactivity can lead to engine wear and other mechanical components. Start the engine occasionally if you can, and let it run for at least ten minutes so the fluids can circulate and seals do not dry out. If starting the engine isn’t possible, make sure all fluids are topped up and lubricated before storage. This will lessen the chance of corrosion or mechanical failure. If you store a car outside, consider placing a moisture-absorbing product inside the engine compartment to limit rust formation.
Preventing Pest Infestations
Pests can cause lots of trouble for a stored car by chewing through the wiring, seats, and other parts. The first step to diminishing the risk of infestations is to seal all potential entry points that rodents and insects can enter. Make sure there is no food or garbage in the vehicle. Consider placing some rodent repellent or traps in the general area around the storage location of the car. Regularly inspect the vehicle so any pest problems can be caught early before becoming serious. If the storage location is clean and well-maintained, the chance of infestation will be lessened.
Using a Car Cover
A quality car cover is a great transitory and seasonal storage tool, especially for vehicles left outside. Covers protect your car from dust, debris, bird droppings, and sun damage. Use a breathable cover to prevent moisture build-up, which can cause mould and paint damage. Ensure the cover fits and can be attached to hold it in place to prevent it from being blown away or moved, causing scratches and marks. A car cover can provide a supplemental layer of protection and a layer for your storage preparations.
Seasonal Storage Considerations
When it comes to seasonal storage – like storing a car in winter or summer months when it isn’t being used – there are a few additional things to consider. When storing a vehicle for the winter, you want to keep the car from freezing up. Use antifreeze in the cooling system and keep the gas tank full to prevent freezing. If you are storing a vehicle in a hot climate in the summer, try to park in a shaded space or at least a ventilated area to prevent heat damage to your interior or tires. Seasonal storage usually means shorter storage times, but if you take the precautions to help the car remain in good health over the particular season you are putting it away, your vehicle will be ready to drive again, and those problems will not become sensitive issues.
Regular Maintenance Checks
Regular maintenance checks are necessary even when a car is in storage. Check the vehicle every few weeks to ensure the tires are still properly inflated, the battery is charged, and there are no leaks, mould, or pests. Occasionally, starting the car can help keep the mechanical pieces working properly. Regular maintenance checks will help prevent little issues from becoming significant issues and help ensure that the vehicle is ready to drive immediately after you take it out of storage. Tracking maintenance work is also helpful for keeping track of its condition in the future.
Preparing to Use the Car After Storage
When taking a car out of storage, you must check it thoroughly before starting it up and driving away. Check all fluid levels, tire pressure, and battery condition. Look for signs of rodent damage, leaks, and corrosion. Start the engine and let it idle for a short while to circulate the fluids and ensure it is running correctly. Also, check the brake function, lights, and other essential systems. By following these procedures, you can ensure that your car is safe, functional, and ready to go right after coming out of storage. If you find any issues with the vehicle, they should be addressed as soon as possible to avoid further damage.
Conclusion
Properly storing a vehicle takes preparation, maintenance, and attention to detail to help keep it in good condition. Protecting the engine, tires, battery, and guarding against pests all require attention. Where to store the vehicle and the amount of time the car will be stored will dictate the best storage procedures; however, the basic ideas provided in this article will help ensure your vehicle functions and looks the way you want. Ontario vehicle owners can consult a service like Greenway Auto Recycling, which specializes in proper storage and handling. This ensures your car remains in great condition and is ready for use without concerns of damage or deterioration.
