When preparing to store your vehicle, taking maintenance steps helps keep it in peak condition. The right procedures help prevent deterioration on the inside and outside. Here are the maintenance steps before putting your vehicle in a facility for storage for cars:
Clean Inside and Out
Giving the interior and exterior a deep clean removes contaminants that can harm the outside paint finish over time. To eliminate embedded dirt and debris, vacuum all interior carpets and mats. It’s also a good idea to wipe down surfaces to remove dust, food crumbs, or stains that can attract pests. Wash the exterior with automotive soap to lift dirt, bugs, and other environmental residues. Rinse off all soap residue and thoroughly dry the surface to avoid water spots.
Check All Fluids
Before leaving your vehicle idle, inspect all the fluid levels and top them off if they are low. You can also evaluate replacing the engine oil and oil filter, especially if it is close to the next scheduled maintenance interval. New fluids reduce the risk of engine damage from condensation buildup since an empty fluid reservoir introduces moisture that can corrode parts.
Manage the Battery
Vehicle batteries still discharge power when inactive for extended periods. It’s advisable to disconnect the negative terminal or remove the battery altogether to prevent drain that will cause the car not to start when you need it to. Another option is connecting the battery to a trickle charger to keep it powered up without overcharging. A battery tender delivers a low amp trickle charge as needed.
Protect the Tires
Your vehicle’s tires can develop flat spots if left parked in one position while in
storage for cars for an extended period of time. Increasing tire pressure before storage helps prevent this by supporting more of the vehicle’s weight. After inflating the tires to the recommended PSI, park on a level concrete surface or use tire supports. Avoid letting tires rest on grass, dirt, or gravel that can retain moisture.
Stabilize the Fuel
If you plan to store your car for a month or more, add a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent the fuel from solidifying. After pouring in the stabilizer, drive the vehicle for a few minutes so it can circulate throughout the fuel system. Stabilizing the fuel helps keep the tank clean so you can drive your vehicle when you remove it from storage.
Apply a Protective Cover
A breathable, fitted car cover provides a barrier against dust accumulation, moisture intrusion, UV damage, and minor scratches. Covers made from soft materials like cotton flannel may not chafe or scratch the paint. The cover should fit snugly over the entire vehicle so no areas are left exposed. Avoid using plastic tarps that can trap moisture.
Inspect the Entire Vehicle
Once you have parked your vehicle in its storage space, perform a walk-around and note any existing dents, scratches, or mechanical issues. Document its current condition inside and out with photos and written descriptions. This way, you won’t have to worry about forgetting about marks, and you can spot any new dents that were not there before storage.
Secure a Space in a Storage For Cars Today
When you have inspected your vehicle and performed other necessary storage maintenance, this can leave you with more space and more time to decide on the next steps for your car. Professional storage facilities have multiple layers of security that will protect your vehicle while there. If stored correctly, your vehicle may run reliably after its time in storage. Contact a storage facility today to learn more about how to prepare your car for storage.
