Auto Storage Tips

Preparing Your Vehicle for Storage

Benefits of Storage Parking

• Perfect for long-term, short-term, or seasonal storage
• Outdoor storage, and indoor storage options including climate-controlled space
• Affordable monthly storage rates and flexible leases

Before You Store your Vehicle

• Check insurance coverage: Confirm storage-specific insurance with your carrier for potential savings.
• Gather supplies: Collect cleaners, protectants, a tire gauge, plastic drop cloth, cotton cloth, mothballs, mouse traps, duct tape, fuel stabilizer, WD-40, desiccant sacs, a jack and stands, wood blocks, and thin wood strips.

Cleaning and Maintenance

• Clean thoroughly: Wash and wax the exterior, vacuum the interior, remove all debris, and eliminate stains. Clean the trunk as well.
• Perform repairs: Address needed repairs to prevent further deterioration during storage.
• Change oil and filter: Replace oil to avoid corrosion from combustion byproducts. Drive several miles after the oil change to circulate it.

Protecting the Engine and Systems

• Prepare the engine: Add engine oil to spark plug cylinders to prevent rust, then seal engine openings with cotton cloth. Spray metal surfaces with WD-40 for rust protection.
• Fuel tank care: Fill the gas tank to reduce moisture exposure and add a fuel stabilizer. Drive 10 miles to circulate the stabilizer.
• Fluid checks: Replace dirty brake, transmission, steering, and engine fluids to prevent corrosion. Top off clear fluids to block air and moisture.

Handling Specific Components

• Convertible tops: Store with the top up to avoid creases and treat with silicone lubricant. Use desiccant sacs to manage interior moisture.
• Tires: Inflate slightly above the recommended PSI to avoid flat spots. Avoid shine products to prevent dry rot.
• Battery: Consult the owner’s manual. Options include removing the battery, disconnecting the negative terminal, or using a storage switch if available.
• Exhaust pipes: Seal with plastic bags and duct tape to block moisture and pests.
• Windshield wipers: Remove blades or place thin wood strips underneath to protect the glass.

Storage Placement and Protection

• Parking precautions: Use a plastic sheet or jacks to protect tires and disengage the emergency brake to prevent sticking.
• Cover the car: Use a tarp to shield it from dust and set up mothballs and traps around the vehicle to deter pests.
• Windows and vents: Roll up windows and close vents to block moisture and pests.

Regular Maintenance During Storage

• Monthly checks: Start the engine monthly for a few minutes with storage doors open for ventilation. If possible, take the car for a brief drive to keep components moving.

Reviving After Storage

• Air out the car: Open windows to freshen the interior.
• Remove protections: Take out cotton cloth from openings, remove the plastic bag from the exhaust pipe, and check all fluids.
• Battery setup: Reinstall and fully charge the battery.
• Drive and test: Take the car for a drive to ensure all systems function properly.