Whether you’re preparing for a long vacation, making some room in your garage, or simply keeping your vehicle safe during the off-season, it’s important to know how to do it properly. There are some crucial dos and don’ts of storing a car that every car owner should follow to ensure their vehicle stays in its best form.
The Do’s: Best Practices for Storing Your Car
1. Do Clean Your Car Inside and Out:
Primarily, the dos and don’ts of storing a car always start with cleanliness. You will find your car fresher when you store it squeaky clean. So, before locking your car up in storage, give it a thorough cleaning grind—inside and out. Generally, dirt, debris, and grime trap in excess moisture. Eventually, this leads to rusting, strains, and deterioration. On the contrary, clean exteriors help maintain the car’s functionality and looks. Moreover, it protects the paint from any harmful contaminants.
2. Do Maintain the Tire Pressure:
When you store a car long term, one of the most common issues is flat or underinflated tires. A little extra air in your tires can prevent them from developing flat spots. So, check your tire pressure before storing a car in the self-storage unit. Overinflate your tires slightly, just to ensure they hold their shape during the storage period. However, be careful not to go over the recommended maximum pressure as it will increase the risk of tire burst.
3. Do Fill Up the Gas Tank:
The last thing you want is for your car’s fuel system to dry out or accumulate moisture while in storage. This is why one of the key dos and don’ts of storing a car in self-storage is to fill up the gas tank. A full tank helps prevent rust from forming inside the fuel tank, and it keeps the seals from drying out. You can add a fuel stabilizer to prevent gasoline from spoiling with time. This can help your engine kick start smoothly after a long break in the storage unit.
Additionally, it is always a good idea to have someone drive your car at intervals. Ideally, you should run the car’s engine for at least 15 minutes every two to three weeks. The filled gas tank will make it handy for you to do this. Also, it helps the battery and tires remain undamaged.
4. Do Disconnect the Battery:
If you intend to leave your car for a lengthy period, you should detach the battery. This keeps it from depleting and maybe turning bad while sitting inactive. The do’s and don’ts of storing a car call for a trickle charger to keep the battery charged while avoiding harm. If you don’t want to go through the effort of reconnecting and disconnecting the battery, simply use a battery tender. Fortunately, this little gadget keeps the battery at an ideal charge level while it is stored securely.
5. Do Cover Your Car:
Considering the dos and don’ts of storing a car, covering your car is an integral step. A fitted car cover works wonders in a self-storage unit, as it can shield your vehicle from scratches, dust buildup, and the occasional droppings from overhead. However, make sure your cover is breathable to avoid trapping moisture underneath, which could lead to mold or mildew growth. Also, avoid using plastic covers, as they might cause condensation.
The Don’ts: Mistakes to Avoid When Storing Your Car
1. Don’t Skip the Maintenance:
Yes, we know that storing a car in a self-storage unit means you need a break from looking after it. However, even though your car will be sitting idle, it’s crucial not to skip basic maintenance. One of the common dos and don’ts of storing a car is to never leave your car in poor condition when you store it. Check the oil levels, top off all essential fluids, and inspect the brakes. Essentially, if you are off-site, you can make someone else handle it for you.
2. Don’t Park on an Uneven Surface:
When you opt for vehicle self-storage, make sure that your car is parked on a leveled surface. While you pay for a unit, you can also invest in additional jacks, wooden planks, or floor mats. This is because uneven or slanted surfaces can put unnecessary strain on certain components, especially the suspension and tires. Therefore, it’s important to check the ground before parking to ensure stability, making it another essential component in the dos and don’ts of storing a car.
3. Don’t Leave the Parking Brake On:
While using the parking brake is a vital safety precaution when parking, leaving it on for too long can cause the brake pads to fuse with the rotors. This might cause harm if you attempt to drive the vehicle again. If possible, keep your automobile in gear or in “Park” (if it is automatic). If you must use the parking brake, consider loosening it slightly after you’ve parked to keep it from sticking.
Wrapping Up: Storing Your Car with Confidence
Now that you know the dos and don’ts of storing a car, you’re equipped to keep your vehicle safe, clean, and in good working condition during its time in storage. Whether it’s for a short-term stay or a long hibernation, taking a few extra steps can save you time, money, and hassle when it’s time to take your car back out for a drive.
To conclude, it’s not just about putting your car in a self-storage unit and walking away. By following these dos and don’ts of storing a car in a self-storage unit, you can ensure that your car stays in top condition, ready for whatever adventure awaits you. So go ahead and store your car with confidence, knowing you’ve taken the right steps to protect your ride.
