When it comes to storing your car for an extended period of time, there are a few key steps you’ll want to take to ensure it stays in the best possible condition. Whether you’re going on a long vacation, leaving for a deployment, or simply need to store your vehicle for a while, proper long term storage is essential to keeping your car running smoothly when you’re ready to use it again.
Here are some tips for long term storage for car:
1. Clean your car thoroughly: Before putting your car into storage, be sure to give it a thorough cleaning. This includes washing the exterior, vacuuming the interior, and wiping down all surfaces. Cleaning your car will help prevent any dirt or debris from causing damage while it’s in storage.
2. Change the oil and top off fluids: It’s a good idea to change the oil and filter before storing your car for an extended period of time. This will help prevent any contaminants from building up in the engine and causing damage. Additionally, be sure to top off all other fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid, to ensure everything is at the proper level.
3. Fill up the gas tank: Before putting your car into long term storage, be sure to fill up the gas tank. A full tank of gas will help prevent moisture from building up in the fuel system and causing corrosion. You may also want to add a fuel stabilizer to help keep the gas fresh during storage.
4. Prevent flat spots on tires: When a car sits in one place for an extended period of time, the tires can develop flat spots. To prevent this from happening, consider placing your car on jack stands or using tire cradles. You may also want to overinflate the tires slightly to help prevent flat spots from forming.
5. Keep the battery charged: If you’re storing your car for more than a few weeks, it’s a good idea to keep the battery charged. You can do this by either starting the car periodically and letting it run for a few minutes or using a battery maintainer. A battery maintainer will help keep the battery at the proper voltage without overcharging it.
6. Protect the paint and interior: To protect your car’s paint and interior during storage, consider using a car cover. A car cover will help prevent dust, dirt, and other debris from damaging the exterior of your car. Additionally, you may want to use a sunshade to protect the interior from UV rays and heat.
7. Store your car in a climate-controlled environment: If possible, store your car in a climate-controlled environment, such as a garage or storage unit. This will help protect your car from extreme temperatures, humidity, and other potentially damaging conditions. If you’re unable to store your car in a climate-controlled environment, consider using a dehumidifier or desiccant packs to help control moisture levels.
8. Perform regular maintenance checks: While your car is in long term storage, it’s important to perform regular maintenance checks to ensure everything is working properly. This includes checking the tire pressure, looking for signs of pests or rodents, and inspecting the exterior and interior for any damage.
By following these tips for long term storage for car, you can help ensure your vehicle stays in the best possible condition while it’s not in use. With proper care and maintenance, your car will be ready to hit the road again when you’re ready to use it.