Preparing Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage: Tips & Strategies

In the case that you're planning to store your vehicle for an extended period of time, such as during the winter months or while traveling, it's important to prepare your car properly to ensure that it's still in good condition when you're ready to use it again.

Here are some tips and strategies to help you prepare your vehicle for long-term storage.

• Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly: This includes washing and waxing the exterior, cleaning the interior, and removing any debris from the engine bay. A clean vehicle is less likely to attract pests and will help prevent damage from dirt and grime that can accumulate over time.
• Change the Oil and Filter: Old oil can break down and become less effective over time, which can lead to engine damage. Before you store your vehicle, be sure to change the oil and filter; this will ensure that your engine has fresh oil and is protected during storage.
• Fill Up the Tank: It's important to fill up the gas tank before storing your vehicle. A full gas tank will help prevent condensation from forming inside the tank, which can lead to rust and other issues. Adding a fuel stabilizer to the tank is also a good idea to help prevent the gas from breaking down over time.
• Remove the Battery: This will prevent the battery from discharging and potentially causing damage to the vehicle's electrical system. If you don't want to remove the battery, you can also use a battery maintainer to keep the battery charged while the vehicle is in storage.
• Protect the Tires: When a vehicle sits for an extended period, the tires can develop flat spots or become damaged. To prevent this, inflate the tires to the manufacturer's recommended pressure and consider using tire cradles or blocks to prevent the tires from contacting the ground. It's also a good idea to move the vehicle occasionally to prevent the tires from developing flat spots.
• Cover Your Vehicle: Covering your vehicle can help protect it from dust, debris, and other potential hazards while in storage. A high-quality car cover will help prevent scratches and further damage to the exterior while providing some protection from the elements.
• Store Your Vehicle in a Safe Location: When choosing a location to store your vehicle, it's important to consider factors such as temperature, humidity, and security. Storage Post offers both outdoor and indoor vehicle storage including gated access, climate-controlled units, and on-site security.
• Check on Your Vehicle Regularly: Even if you've taken all the necessary steps to prepare your vehicle for storage, it's still a good idea to check on it regularly. This will help you identify any potential issues before they become major problems. It's also a good idea to start the vehicle and let it run for a few minutes every few weeks to keep the engine and other components in good condition.

Preparing your vehicle for long-term storage is an important task that can help ensure that it remains in good condition while not in use. By following these tips and strategies, you can help protect your vehicle from damage and ensure it's ready to use when needed. Contact us to learn more about how Storage Post can help keep your vehicle protected when not in use.