Vehicle Storage Tips

There are many reasons you might need to store your car. Maybe you have taken a 6 month work assignment out of state or overseas. Or you own a classic car that you only take out a few times a year. Or it could be your convertible that you love to drive in the summer, but need somewhere to store it during the winter months. Military deployment, extended vacation, the list goes on.

There are several things to think of and do before you store your vehicle. You want to avoid things like a dead battery, ruined tires or a damaged engine. Below are several tips to consider before you store your vehicle. Following these tips will help prevent a number of issues when you are ready to take your vehicle out of storage.

1. Store Your Vehicle at a Local Storage Facility

The ideal place to store the vehicle is at a storage facility such as Nova Storage Mission Hills CA.  This will protect it from the weather and potential damage from parking it in a driveway. You can find reasonable pricing for Vehicle Storage.

2. Wash Your Vehicle Prior to Storing It

You will appreciate returning to a clean vehicle and washing your vehicle before storing it at a storage facility likeMission Hills Storage for an extended amount will help prevent paint damage from dirt or water stains. When you wash your vehicle you should clean the wheels as well and you may want to consider waxing your vehicle for added protection.

3. Fill Your Vehicle Up With Gas

Another tip to consider is if you will be storing your vehicle for longer that a few weeks, fill the tank with gas. This will prevent moisture from accumulating inside the fuel tank and keep the seals from drying out. Adding a fuel stabilizer will help prevent ethanol buildup and protect the engine from gum, varnish and rust. The fuel stabilizer will prevent the gas from deteriorating for up to 12 months.

4. Change the Oil in Your Vehicle

Another tip if you will be storing your vehicle for longer than a few weeks you is you should consider changing the oil before you store it. Old oil could contain contaminants that could be damaging to your engine.

5. Keep the Battery Charged

An unattended battery will eventually lose its charge. You should periodically go to your storage facility such asMission Hills Self Storage and start your vehicle up and take it for a short drive. If you are out of the area try to get someone to start your vehicle for you. A periodic, short drive will help maintain the battery’s and ensure the engine components are staying lubricated. If you can’t drive the vehicle periodically or find someone to drive it for you then it is recommended that you at least disconnect the battery.

6. Continue Your Insurance

Depending on how long you plan to store your vehicle you will have to do a cost analysis as to whether you should or shouldn’t cancel your insurance. You should check with your insurance agent. There is a chance that the insurance company will raise your rates due to the gap in coverage, which could cost you more in the long run. And if you are uninsured you will be at risk when you take your vehicle out for periodic, shore drives.