Are you leaving your car parked for a long period? Whether it’s for a winter retreat, an extended vacation, or simply switching to a different mode of transport, it might seem like your car will be fine just sitting in the garage. But cars aren’t made to sit idle for too long, and over time, even an unused vehicle can develop issues that make it hard to start up again. You may want to have someone drive it for about 20 minutes every week while you’re away. This trick routine minimizes the need for extensive prep work. It keeps the battery charged, fluids circulated, and parts lubricated, which prevents common issues from long-term idling. If this is not possible, follow these essential steps to properly prepare your car for long-term storage and ensure it’s ready to roll when you are.
What To Do Before Storing a Car
Whether you’re planning a brief break or an extended driving hiatus, there are a few key steps to ensure your car remains in top condition while it’s not in use. First, find a reliable storage location that is secure and accessible. Ideally, park your car indoors—such as in a garage or a covered rental space—since exposure to rain, snow, and moisture increases the risk of rust and corrosion. If indoor parking isn’t available, invest in a high-quality, breathable car cover to shield it from the elements while still allowing airflow, which helps prevent mildew and moisture buildup.
When storing your car, the duration of storage plays a significant role in how you should prepare it. Each scenario requires different steps to keep your vehicle in top condition. Understanding the specific needs for each duration can help you avoid damage, keep your car safe, and ensure your car is ready to hit the road when you are. Make sure to record all steps so you can easily reverse them when you’re ready to drive again.
Note: The following steps are organized in a “building block” manner, each level of storage (short, medium, long-term) includes the tasks from the previous one, ensuring a thorough preparation based on the length of storage time.
Preparing for 1 Month Car Storage
- Wash the exterior to remove dirt, dust, bugs, and debris to protect the paint and prevent rust.
- Clean the interior by vacuuming food scraps and crumbs to avoid attracting pests.
- Fill the gas tank to prevent moisture and rust from affecting the fuel system.
- Over-inflate tires slightly by checking the owner’s manual for correct pressure and adding a little extra to prevent flat spots.
- Avoid using the parking brake to prevent brake pads from fusing with the rotors; if needed, use a tire stopper to keep the car in place.
Getting Ready for Up to 3 Months of Vehicle Storage
After following the previous steps for short-term storage:
- Wax the exterior to prevent oxidation and provide a protective layer on the paint.
- Change the oil to prevent contamination and sludge buildup, which can damage the engine.
- Check engine coolant to ensure it’s at the right level, especially in winter, to prevent freezing.
- Protect the battery by removing it, storing it on a wood surface, and connecting it to a trickle charger.
- Raise the car on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tires during long-term storage.
Storing Your Vehicle for Over Three Months
After following the previous steps for medium-term storage, do these:
- Add engine stabilizer to the gas tank to prevent moisture buildup and fuel degradation, and run the engine briefly to mix it in.
- Protect from critters by covering openings like wheel wells, engine blocks, and exhausts to keep animals out.
- Raise windshield wipers to prevent them from sticking or marking the windshield.
- Condition upholstery with a leather and vinyl conditioner to prevent cracking and fading.
- Adjust or remove insurance by contacting your insurer to see if you can lower rates while the car is in storage.
Do These Before You Hit the Road After Storage
Before hitting the road, run through these quick checks to make sure your car is road-ready after storage:
- Inspect Under the Hood and Check Fluids: Look for frayed wires or signs of rodents, and verify that essential fluids like oil and washer fluid are topped off.
- Remove Covers and Inspect the Exterior: Take off any protective covers and check for any damage to the windshield wipers, tires, or other exposed areas. Replace wipers if they’re cracked or brittle.
- Adjust Tire Pressure and Test Battery: Inflate tires to the recommended pressure, as they may have lost air over time. Test the battery; recharge or replace it if needed.
- Test Lights, Signals, and Electricals: Walk around the car to confirm all lights and indicators are working, and replace any burnt-out bulbs or fuses.
- Give Your Car a Good Wash: Remove accumulated dust and dirt for a clean and fresh appearance.
- Review Your Storage Preparation Checklist: Double-check your original checklist to confirm all storage preparations have been reversed and that nothing has been missed.
Buying After a Long-Term Car Storage? Here’s What to Check
When buying a car that has been in storage, it’s crucial to ensure it’s still in good condition. Along with a vehicle history report from VinAudit.ca to uncover any past issues, here are five key tips to help you assess the car:
- Check for Rust and Damage: Inspect the car, especially undercarriage areas, for any rust or moisture-related damage that could have developed during storage. This can help you avoid costly repairs later.
- Test the Battery: Cars in storage often have dead or weak batteries. Be prepared to either charge or replace it, as a weak battery can affect the car’s overall performance.
- Examine the Tires: Tires can develop flat spots or cracks from sitting idle for long periods. Check for any visible damage and make sure the tires are properly inflated before purchasing.
- Test the Brakes: Brake pads can stick to the rotors when a car sits too long. Test the brakes for any unusual noises or issues, and ensure they respond properly.
- Have a Mechanic Inspect It: Get a professional mechanic to check the car thoroughly. This can help uncover hidden problems caused by prolonged storage, such as oil leaks or worn-out components.
By following these steps and reviewing the vehicle history report, you can ensure you’re making a well-informed purchase.
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