Whether you are heading out on an extended holiday, moving abroad, or simply need to store your car for a while, long term car storage is the ideal solution to keep your vehicle safe and well-maintained. Storing your car for an extended period comes with unique challenges, but with the right care and a reliable storage solution, you can ensure that your vehicle remains in top condition for when you’re ready to use it again.
In this article, we’ll discuss the benefits of long term car storage, how to prepare your vehicle for storage, and what to look for when choosing a storage facility.
Why Long Term Car Storage Is Essential
Cars, especially those that are not regularly used, require specific care and attention to ensure they remain in good working condition. Whether you are storing a classic car, a seasonal vehicle, or just temporarily not using your everyday car, choosing the right long term car storage solution is vital. Here are the main reasons why long-term storage is necessary:
- Protecting Your Vehicle from the Elements
Vehicles exposed to the outdoor environment for extended periods can suffer damage from weather conditions such as rain, snow, and sun. Prolonged exposure can lead to rust, paint damage, and the deterioration of rubber components, including tires and seals. Long term car storage in a secure, indoor environment protects your vehicle from such elements and preserves its exterior and internal components.
- Maintaining the Vehicle’s Value
For those who own classic cars or high-value vehicles, maintaining the vehicle’s condition is essential to preserving its market value. Storing it in a safe, clean environment ensures that its value does not diminish due to exposure to harsh weather or poor handling over time.
- Preventing Mechanical Issues
A vehicle left unused for long periods may develop mechanical issues. Tires can lose pressure, batteries can drain, and fuel can degrade, causing engine problems. Long term car storage facilities provide the necessary environment to keep your car in peak condition, helping to avoid these mechanical issues upon retrieval.
- Avoiding Theft or Vandalism
Cars left unattended in public spaces or even in driveways are vulnerable to theft and vandalism. Storing your vehicle in a secure, monitored facility significantly reduces the risk of such incidents, offering peace of mind that your car is safe.
How to Prepare Your Car for Long Term Storage
Before placing your car in long term car storage, it’s important to take some essential steps to ensure it remains in excellent condition. Proper preparation can help avoid issues when you retrieve your vehicle from storage.
- Clean Your Car Inside and Out
Start by thoroughly cleaning both the interior and exterior of your car. Dirt, dust, and debris can cause long-term damage, especially if left on the surface for extended periods. Wash the exterior, including under the wheel arches and in areas where dirt can accumulate. Clean the wheels and apply wax to protect the paintwork. Inside, remove any trash and vacuum the upholstery and carpets.
- Change the Oil and Check Fluid Levels
Before storing your vehicle, it’s a good idea to change the oil and filter. Old, dirty oil can cause corrosion and damage to the engine during extended storage. Additionally, check and top up all the necessary fluids, including coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid. This helps keep the engine and other components in good working order.
- Inflate the Tires
Flat or under-inflated tires are more prone to damage, especially if the car remains stationary for long periods. Ensure the tires are inflated to the recommended pressure before storing your vehicle. You may also consider placing your car on jack stands to take the pressure off the tires entirely.
- Remove the Battery
If you plan to store your car for several months or more, it’s recommended to remove the battery to prevent it from draining. Storing the battery separately also helps prevent corrosion. Alternatively, you can connect the battery to a trickle charger to keep it charged.
- Fill the Gas Tank
A full gas tank reduces the risk of moisture accumulating inside the fuel tank, which can cause rust and damage over time. Add a fuel stabiliser to prevent the gasoline from deteriorating. This is especially important if you’re storing your vehicle for a longer period.
- Cover Your Vehicle
Even in a secure storage facility, it’s a good idea to use a car cover to protect your vehicle from dust and any potential contaminants. Make sure the cover is breathable to allow moisture to escape, which helps prevent rust formation.
Choosing the Right Long Term Car Storage Facility
When selecting a long term car storage facility, there are several factors to consider to ensure that your vehicle will be safe and well-maintained throughout the storage period.
- Security Features
A secure storage facility is the most important consideration when choosing a long-term storage solution. Look for features like 24/7 surveillance cameras, gated access, and alarm systems. Some facilities also offer individual vehicle storage units, which add an extra layer of security by ensuring that your car is not exposed to the general public.
- Indoor vs. Outdoor Storage
For the best protection, indoor storage is always recommended for long term car storage. Indoor storage facilities provide a climate-controlled environment that protects your vehicle from environmental factors like rain, snow, and sun. Outdoor storage may be more affordable, but it exposes your vehicle to the elements, which can lead to deterioration over time.
- Climate Control
If you are storing your vehicle for an extended period, especially in regions with extreme temperatures, consider a facility that offers climate-controlled storage. This helps maintain a stable environment, protecting your car from the risks of heat, humidity, or freezing temperatures.
- Accessibility
You may need access to your vehicle during the storage period, whether to perform maintenance or simply check on it. Choose a long term car storage facility that offers convenient access hours. Some facilities provide 24/7 access, while others may have set hours for access. Make sure the facility’s hours suit your needs.
- Insurance
Before committing to a storage facility, verify the insurance coverage they provide for stored vehicles. Some facilities include insurance in the price, while others may require you to obtain additional coverage. Ensure your vehicle is fully covered for theft, damage, or other incidents that could occur while in storage.
Tips for Maintaining Your Vehicle in Long Term Storage
Once your car is in storage, there are a few maintenance tips to keep in mind to ensure it remains in good condition:
- Start the car periodically: If allowed by the facility, start your vehicle every couple of weeks to circulate the fluids and keep the engine in good condition.
- Check the vehicle: If you have access, periodically check on the condition of the tires, battery, and any other components you may have serviced before storage.
- Cover vents and exhaust: To prevent pests from entering your vehicle, cover vents and the exhaust pipe with steel wool or specialised covers.
Ensure Your Vehicle’s Protection with Long Term Storage
Long term car storage offers an excellent solution for anyone needing to store their vehicle for an extended period. Whether it’s to protect your car from the elements, maintain its value, or keep it safe from theft, storing your vehicle in a secure, climate-controlled environment will help ensure that it remains in top condition.
With the right preparation and by choosing a reputable storage facility, you can protect your vehicle and ensure that it’s ready for use when you need it again.
Explore your options for long term car storage today and ensure that your vehicle is well taken care of during its time in storage.
