Life happens, and sometimes, your car might need to be parked for a while. Whether you’re going on an extended vacation, moving to a new place, or simply don’t need the car for a few months, storing a vehicle safely is crucial to preserving its condition.
Storing a car properly not only ensures it’s ready to go when you need it but also helps avoid costly repairs down the road. In this post, we’ll cover the best practices for storing an unused car safely, so it stays in great shape, ready for when you return to the driver’s seat.
1. Choose the Right Storage Location
The first step to safely storing a car is selecting the right storage space. The location you choose will play a significant role in how well your car holds up while it’s not in use.
- Indoor Storage: If you have access to a garage or indoor storage facility, this is the ideal option. It protects your car from the elements like rain, snow, extreme heat, and UV rays, all of which can cause wear and tear on your vehicle’s exterior and interior.
- Outdoor Storage: If indoor storage isn’t available, try to park your car in a shaded area. You can use a high-quality car cover to protect it from the sun’s UV rays, which can cause fading and damage to both the paint and the interior.
- Secure Storage: Whether inside or outside, ensure the area is secure. If the car is being stored for a long period, you’ll want to keep it in a place that’s safe from theft or vandalism.
2. Clean Your Car Thoroughly
Before storing your car, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out. Dirt, dust, and other debris can cause damage over time, especially when left sitting on the car for an extended period.
- Exterior Wash: Wash the exterior to remove dirt, grime, and road salts that can lead to rust and corrosion if left unattended. Waxing the car can provide an extra layer of protection against dust and moisture.
- Interior Clean: Clean the interior as well, vacuuming carpets and wiping down surfaces. If there’s food or drink residue, it can attract pests or leave stains that are hard to remove later. Don’t forget to clean the windows to ensure visibility when you return to use the car.
- Dry Everything: Ensure everything is completely dry before storing it. Moisture can lead to mold and mildew, particularly in the upholstery and carpets.
3. Check Fluid Levels and Top Them Up
It’s crucial to make sure your car is in tip-top condition before storing it. One of the most important things to do is check and top off all fluids.
- Engine Oil: Fresh oil is essential to keep your engine in good condition. If your oil is old or low, it could lead to engine wear when you start the car up again.
- Coolant: Check the coolant level to avoid engine overheating or freezing. If the coolant is low, top it off.
- Brake Fluid: Ensure that your brake fluid is at the correct level for safety. If it’s low, it might indicate a leak or other issues that should be addressed before storage.
- Fuel: Fill up the gas tank to prevent moisture from building up in the tank. Adding a fuel stabilizer is also a good idea to keep the fuel from deteriorating while the car is parked for an extended period.
4. Disconnect the Battery
If your car is going to be stored for a few weeks or months, disconnecting the battery can prevent it from draining. When a car is left unused for a long time, the battery can lose its charge, and you may end up with a dead battery when you’re ready to use the car again.
- Battery Maintenance: If possible, remove the battery completely and store it in a cool, dry place. If you leave the battery in the car, consider using a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it charged.
5. Tires and Suspension Care
Tires can develop flat spots or lose air pressure if left stationary for too long. Here’s what you can do to prevent this:
- Inflate Tires: Before storing your car, ensure the tires are inflated to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. This will help prevent flat spots from developing on the tires.
- Lift the Car (Optional): If you know you won’t be using the car for a while, consider lifting it with a jack and placing it on jack stands. This will relieve the pressure on the tires and suspension system.
- Tire Rotation: If you’re storing the car for several months, it’s also a good idea to rotate the tires before parking it. This can help distribute the wear more evenly.
6. Protect the Interior from Sun Damage
If you’re storing your car outdoors or in a place with a lot of sun exposure, take steps to protect the interior from UV damage.
- Window Covers or Sunshades: Use sunshades or UV-blocking window covers to protect the dashboard, seats, and interior trim from fading or cracking due to sun exposure.
- Ventilation: Open the windows slightly to allow airflow and prevent the buildup of moisture inside. Just make sure they are not open enough for rain or dust to get inside.
7. Lock Your Car and Keep the Keys Safe
Once your car is cleaned, maintained, and ready for storage, ensure it is locked securely. Leaving your car unlocked or with the keys inside could invite theft or vandalism.
- Store the Keys Safely: Keep the car keys in a safe place, away from where someone might accidentally access them. If you have a spare key, make sure it’s stored securely too.
- Alarm System: If your car has an alarm or security system, make sure it’s activated to deter theft.
8. Check on the Car Periodically
Even though your car is stored, it’s a good idea to check on it every few weeks to make sure everything is in order.
- Start the Engine: If possible, start the car every 2–3 weeks to keep the engine lubricated and ensure the battery is still holding a charge. Let it run for about 10–15 minutes.
- Inspect for Issues: During your check, inspect the tires, battery, and fluid levels to make sure everything is still in good condition. If you notice any problems, address them as soon as possible.
A Little Care Goes a Long Way
Storing a car safely may seem like a hassle, but a little bit of effort upfront will ensure that your car stays in great condition, ready for when you need it next. By following these best practices, you can protect your vehicle from damage and avoid unnecessary repair costs down the road.
Whether you’re storing it for a few weeks or several months, taking the time to properly prepare your car will help ensure that it’s ready to go when you are.
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