If you own a vehicle that you use seasonally, or if you have a car that you aren’t using regularly because you are traveling, you might want to place your car into storage. Vehicle storage is a smart way to keep your car safe and in good condition for when you are ready to use it again. However, it isn’t always easy to know what steps you need to take to store your vehicle properly. The process of storing a car is more complex than simply leaving it in a garage or parking lot. In this article, we will explore some of the basics of vehicle storage so that you can be sure that your car is well taken care of and ready to go when you need it.
1. Choose the Right Storage Location
The first thing that you need to think about when you want to store your car is where you will store it. Many car owners opt to store their vehicles in their own garages, but not everyone can do this. If you don’t have a garage, you can look into storage facilities that offer car storage. When choosing a storage location, make sure that it is climate-controlled, clean, and secure. It should also be a place where you can access your vehicle easily once you are ready to use it again.
2. Prepare Your Car for Storage
Once you have found the right storage location, you need to prepare your car for storage. This means doing a bit of maintenance work before you park it. Start by filling up the gas tank and adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from breaking down while your car is stored. You should also replace your oil and filter, and add some antifreeze if you live in a cold climate. Clean your car thoroughly, inside and out, and remove any valuables from inside.
3. Cover Your Car
When you store your car, it is important to cover it to protect it from any dust or debris that might accumulate while it sits. There are several options for car covers, including indoor and outdoor covers. Make sure that you choose a cover that is the right size for your car and that it is made from a breathable material so that moisture can escape. Avoid using plastic or vinyl covers as they can trap moisture and lead to mold growth.
4. Maintain Your Car
While your car is in storage, you will need to perform regular maintenance to keep it in good condition. This includes starting the engine and running it for a few minutes once a month to keep the battery charged and to circulate the fluids. You should also keep the tires inflated to their recommended pressure, and consider putting your car on jack stands to take the weight off the tires.
5. Insure Your Car
Even when your car is in storage, it is important to have the right insurance coverage. This can protect you in case of any theft or damage that might occur while your car is in storage. You will need to check with your insurance provider to see what type of coverage you have and if you need to make any changes to your policy.
Conclusion:
Now that you know the basics of vehicle storage, you can make an informed decision about how to best store your car. Remember to choose the right storage location, prepare your car for storage, cover it properly, maintain it regularly, and insure it appropriately. Taking these steps can help keep your car safe and in good condition until you are ready to use it again. By following these tips, you can ensure that your car is ready to go when you are.
