Expert Tips for Safely Storing Your Car Long Term 

If you’re going away, or won’t be driving your vehicle for a month or more, here are some important tips to keep it in good condition.

Why Long-Term Vehicle Storage is Crucial for Your Car’s Health 

Preparation for the storage of car parts – whether keeping a car with storage facilities or in a home garage – is vital. This helps protect it from environmental damage and degradation of its internal workings.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Car for Storage 

Even when using a commercial storage for auto facility, there are a number of key steps to prepare your car:

Thorough Cleaning and Emptying 

Thorough cleaning, both externally and internally, prevents dust and dirt from bonding with surfaces. Paintwork can be irreparably damaged if dirt and other substances are left for a period of time. A wax after cleaning when storing a car will add an extra layer of protection, and wrapping windscreen wipers with plastic wrap – or clicking them into the ‘out’ position – stops the blades bonding with the screen. 

Don’t forget the inside of the car either. Eliminating rubbish and stains from the interior prevents mould and bad smells that are hard to remove.

Essential Maintenance Checks Before Storing Your Car 

• Importantly, you should top up the fuel tank when putting your car in storage. For longer stays, you should also add a fuel stabiliser to prevent the fuel from ‘glueing’. But you’ll need to replace the tank with fresh fuel before attempting to restart the vehicle.
• Likewise, draining and replacing the engine oil before you store a car will stop engine damage from dirty fluid. While you’re at it, disconnect the battery and use a ‘trickle charger’ device to keep the battery ready for your return.
• Leave the handbrake off to prevent the handbrake from fusing and ‘chock’ the wheels instead. You should over-inflate tyres so that they don’t develop ‘flat spots’ when sitting in the same position for a long time. You can even remove the wheels and put your car in storage on special jacks which avoids this kind of damage.

Key Security Features to Look For in a Storage Facility 

Security: Surveillance (CCTV) cameras, gated access, alarms, and regular security inspections are essential for peace of mind when storing a car.

Climate Control: Protection from extreme temperatures and humidity makes commercial storage an attractive proposition.

Cleanliness: Well-maintained, clean spaces prevent damage from dust, pests, grit and moisture.

Accessibility: Convenient, 7-day access allows you to visit your car in storage at any time that suits you.

The Benefits of Climate-Controlled Storage Units 

Stable temperature and humidity protect vehicles from environmental damage. Controlled conditions prevent temperature extremes, infestation by pests, and exposure to the elements. This helps avoid issues like fading, rust, mould, and the deterioration of the interior trim.

Pro Tips for Long-Term Vehicle Storage Success 

Regular checks on the vehicle will make certain nothing goes wrong while it’s out of action. Keep an eye out for leaks or tyre deflation, check the fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid), and ensure the fuel is full to prevent condensation in the tank.

How to Perform Periodic Checks During Storage

Regular maintenance, including starting the engine and running it for short periods of time, is the optimum way to keep a healthy car in storage. If you can’t guarantee that pests won’t be a problem when storing a car, it’s also a good idea to cover up exhaust pipes and vents to stop insects and rodents from setting up home in your vehicle. Just be sure to remove those covers before starting the engine! A simple breathable cloth vehicle cover is another excellent option, even if your vehicle is being kept in commercial storage for car service.

Safely Preparing Your Car for Use After Storage. 

• Check and, if necessary, replace fuel, oil, and coolant ready for use.
• Replace tyres or inflate to correct psi.
• Uncover any exhaust pipes or vents that have been blocked during storage.
• Check under the bonnet for signs of chewing or infestation, see that your battery has a charge and reconnect if necessary.
• Check the rubber on your windscreen wipers to ensure they haven’t been damaged or cracked and return them to the regular position.
• Check brakes for any sign of rust or damage.
• Give the vehicle another good clean, inside and out, to remove dust and buildup.

Keeping Your Vehicle Safe During Storage 

It’s essential to prepare your car for storage – whether you’re going to be away for just a month, or for a longer duration. These tips will help you keep your vehicle in top condition and prevent any nasty surprises when it’s time to bring it home.

Ready to Store Your Vehicle? Contact Us for Expert Help Today 

For secure, and climate controlled vehicle storage with 7 day access and live CCTV surveillance, contact Wilson Storage today for a quote on any one of our convenient locations across Victoria, NSW and Tasmania.