How to Store Your Car Long Term
Storing a car for an extended period requires more than just parking it in a garage and hoping for the best. Proper preparation is essential to prevent damage from rust, pests, flat tires, and a host of other potential problems. Whether you’re deploying overseas, traveling abroad, or simply have a vehicle you won’t be using for a while, this comprehensive guide will walk you through the steps needed to ensure your car remains in good condition during long-term storage.
1. Preparation is Key
The success of long-term car storage hinges on meticulous preparation. The more effort you put in at the beginning, the better the chances your car will start up smoothly when you’re ready to use it again.
- Clean Inside and Out:
- Exterior: Wash and wax your car thoroughly. Remove all dirt, grime, and bird droppings. Waxing provides a protective layer against the elements.
- Interior: Vacuum the entire interior, including under the seats and in the trunk. Remove all food particles, wrappers, and other debris that could attract pests. Clean all surfaces with appropriate cleaners for vinyl, leather, and fabric.
- Fuel Stabilization:
- Fill the Tank: Fill the gas tank to about 95% capacity. A full tank minimizes the amount of air inside, which can lead to condensation and rust.
- Add Fuel Stabilizer: Pour a fuel stabilizer into the tank according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Fuel stabilizers prevent the gasoline from breaking down and forming gum and varnish, which can clog fuel lines and injectors.
- Run the Engine: After adding the fuel stabilizer, run the engine for about 15 minutes to ensure the treated fuel circulates throughout the fuel system.
- Oil Change:
- Fresh Oil: Change the engine oil and filter before storing the car. Used oil contains contaminants that can corrode engine parts over time.
- Run Briefly: After the oil change, run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the fresh oil.
- Coolant:
- Check Levels: Ensure the coolant is at the proper level and is a 50/50 mix of antifreeze and distilled water. This prevents corrosion and protects against freezing temperatures.
- Battery Care:
- Disconnect: Disconnect the negative battery cable to prevent the battery from draining.
- Battery Tender: Ideally, use a battery tender or maintainer to keep the battery charged during storage. This will prevent sulfation, which can damage the battery.
- Store Separately: If you don’t have a battery tender, remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place. Check the voltage periodically and charge it as needed.
- Tires:
- Inflate Properly: Inflate the tires to the maximum recommended pressure listed on the sidewall. This helps prevent flat spots from forming during storage.
- Tire Protection: Place the car on jack stands to take the weight off the tires completely. If you can’t use jack stands, move the car slightly every month to change the point of contact between the tires and the ground.
- Protect Against Pests:
- Mothballs: Place mothballs in the interior and under the car to deter rodents and insects. Be cautious when using mothballs, as they can have a strong odor.
- Dryer Sheets: Place dryer sheets in the interior to help keep rodents away.
- Seal Entry Points: Seal any potential entry points for pests, such as exhaust pipes and air intakes, with steel wool or tape.
- Parking Brake:
- Release: Release the parking brake to prevent it from seizing up. If you’re storing the car on a slope, use wheel chocks to prevent it from rolling.
- Exhaust System:
- Seal Exhaust: Cover the exhaust pipe with plastic bags and tape to prevent moisture and pests from entering.
2. Choosing the Right Storage Location
The storage location plays a crucial role in preserving your car’s condition.
- Indoor Storage:
- Garage: A garage is the ideal storage location. It provides protection from the elements, reduces the risk of theft and vandalism, and helps maintain a consistent temperature.
- Storage Unit: If you don’t have a garage, consider renting a storage unit. Choose a climate-controlled unit if possible, as this will help prevent rust and other moisture-related problems.
- Outdoor Storage:
- Cover: If you must store your car outdoors, use a high-quality car cover that is breathable and waterproof. This will protect the paint from sun damage, rain, and snow.
- Avoid Direct Sunlight: Park the car in a shaded area to minimize sun exposure, which can fade the paint and damage the interior.
- Elevated Ground: Park the car on a paved surface or gravel to prevent moisture from seeping into the undercarriage.
3. Final Preparations and Checklist
Before sealing up your car for long-term storage, run through this final checklist:
- Documentation:
- Insurance: Contact your insurance company to adjust your coverage to reflect the car’s storage status. You may be able to reduce your premium.
- Registration: Ensure your registration is up-to-date to avoid any issues when you’re ready to use the car again.
- Fluid Leaks:
- Check for Leaks: Place cardboard or drip pans under the car to catch any potential fluid leaks.
- Address Leaks: If you notice any leaks, address them before storing the car.
- Cover the Car:
- Breathable Cover: Use a breathable car cover to protect the car from dust, dirt, and moisture.
- Security:
- Alarm System: If your car has an alarm system, activate it.
- Security Measures: Take additional security measures, such as installing a steering wheel lock or removing the radio faceplate.
- Final Walk-Around:
- Double-Check: Do a final walk-around to ensure all doors, windows, and the trunk are closed and locked.
4. Periodic Maintenance During Storage
Even though your car is in storage, it’s important to perform periodic maintenance to keep it in good condition.
- Monthly Checks:
- Visual Inspection: Check the car for any signs of damage, leaks, or pest infestations.
- Battery Voltage: If you’re not using a battery tender, check the battery voltage and charge it as needed.
- Tire Pressure: Check the tire pressure and inflate as necessary.
- Monthly Engine Start:
- Run Briefly: Start the engine and let it run for about 15 minutes once a month. This will circulate the fluids and help prevent seals from drying out.
- Operate Systems: While the engine is running, operate the air conditioner, heater, and other systems to keep them lubricated.
- Move the Car:
- Prevent Flat Spots: If you’re not using jack stands, move the car slightly each month to change the point of contact between the tires and the ground.
5. Taking Your Car Out of Storage
When you’re ready to take your car out of storage, follow these steps:
- Inspection:
- Thorough Check: Inspect the car thoroughly for any signs of damage, leaks, or pest infestations.
- Fluid Levels:
- Check and Top Off: Check all fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, transmission fluid) and top off as needed.
- Battery:
- Reconnect or Replace: Reconnect the battery or install a new one if necessary.
- Tires:
- Adjust Pressure: Adjust the tire pressure to the recommended level.
- Initial Start-Up:
- First Start: Start the engine and let it run for a few minutes. Listen for any unusual noises or problems.
- Test Drive:
- Short Drive: Take the car for a short test drive to check the brakes, steering, and other systems.
- Wash and Detail:
- Clean Thoroughly: Wash and detail the car to remove any dust or dirt that may have accumulated during storage.
Conclusion
Storing a car long-term requires careful planning and preparation. By following these steps, you can protect your vehicle from damage and ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. Remember, the key to successful long-term car storage is to take the time to do it right. With a little effort, you can avoid costly repairs and keep your car in excellent condition.
