If you need to store your car for an extended period of time, there are several things you should do to make sure it stays in good condition. Properly storing a car helps prevent damage from disuse as well as maintain its value. Here are some quick answers to common questions about long-term car storage:
How long can I store a car?
There is no set limit on how long you can store a car, as long as you take the proper precautions. Cars can potentially be stored for years at a time without being driven. The key is properly maintaining the car while it is not in use.
Where should I store the car?
Indoor storage is ideal for long-term car storage. A garage, storage unit, or self-storage facility protects the car from weather elements like rain, snow, wind, etc. Outdoor parking exposes it to potential damage from the sun, moisture, dirt, and more.
How can I prevent my car from deteriorating when stored?
Here are some tips to maintain a stored car:
- Wash and wax the car thoroughly first
- Inflate the tires to the recommended tire pressure
- Change the engine oil and filter
- Add fuel stabilizer to a full gas tank to prevent fuel deterioration
- Disconnect the battery and remove it or use a trickle charger
- Place the car on jack stands to prevent flat spots on the tires
- Cover the car with a breathable car cover
- Place desiccant bags or moisture absorbers in the car
- Clean and dry the interior thoroughly
- Crack open windows and prop doors open to allow airflow and prevent mildew/mold
- Consider putting plastic covers on the seats if storing long term
How often should I start and run the engine?
It’s recommended to start the engine every 4-6 weeks when storing a car long term. Let it run for 15-20 minutes to circulate the oil and prevent the engine from seizing up. Going longer than 6 weeks increases the risks of damage and deterioration.
Should I disconnect the battery?
Yes, you should disconnect the battery when storing a car for an extended time. If the battery remains connected, it can gradually discharge over weeks/months due to small electrical draws. Remove the negative terminal from the battery or use a battery cut-off switch. Alternatively, use a trickle charger to maintain the battery charge.
What should the fuel level be?
Store the car with a full tank of gas, or as close to full as possible. This prevents water condensation from accumulating in the fuel system since less air space means less moisture can build up. Also add fuel stabilizer to preserve the fuel.
Should I inflate the tires?
Check the tire pressure and inflate to the recommended pressure listed on the tire sidewall or vehicle door jamb sticker. Maintaining proper inflation prevents flat spots from developing.
How can I prevent rust/corrosion?
Wash and wax the car before storage to protect the paintwork. Oil/lubricate any underbody components prone to rust. Use a car cover to shield from dust and moisture. Place moisture absorbers inside the car. Avoid storing directly on concrete/cement floors which hold moisture.
Should I leave the parking brake on or off?
Release the parking brake when storing the car. Leaving the parking brake engaged can lead to brake or rear wheel cylinder damage over time.
How should I store the convertible top?
For convertibles, store the top in the upright/open position rather than folded down. This helps maintain its shape and prevents damage/creasing to the fabric. Support the top with frame bracing if needed.
Conclusion
Properly storing a car for an extended time requires some preparation but helps maintain the vehicle in good operating condition. The key steps are storing it indoors, maintaining proper fluid levels, disconnecting the battery, inflating tires, covering it, and running the engine periodically. Taking the right precautions allows cars to be stored for years at a time without deterioration.
Maintaining Interior, Exterior and Mechanical Components
Maintaining your car properly inside, outside and mechanically is crucial for long term storage success. Here are some key maintenance tips:
Interior Maintenance
- Thoroughly clean interior surfaces – vacuum, wipe down, shampoo carpets
- Use protectants on vinyl, leather, wood, and plastic surfaces
- Remove any perishable items that may rot/spoil
- Clean windows inside and out
- Place desiccant bags in cabin to control humidity
- Crack windows open slightly for air circulation
- Disconnect battery and store in climate controlled area if possible
- Cover and support convertible top in proper open position
Exterior Maintenance
- Hand wash exterior and door jambs thoroughly
- Clay bar paint to remove contaminants
- Wax or seal paint for protection
- Clean wheels, tires, wheel wells, undercarriage
- Check/replace windshield wipers
- Ensure drain holes are clear
- Touch up paint chips/scratches
- Cover vehicle with breathable car cover
Mechanical Maintenance
- Change engine oil and filter
- Check and top off all fluids
- Inspect belts and hoses, replace if needed
- Fill up fuel tank with fuel stabilizer added
- Inspect brakes and brake fluid
- Check tire pressure and inflate tires
- Disconnect battery or use trickle charger to maintain charge
Preparing the Vehicle Storage Space
In addition to preparing the vehicle itself, you also need to make sure your storage facility or garage is properly prepared. This helps prevent damage:
- Clean and degrease the storage area thoroughly
- Seal or paint concrete floors to prevent moisture penetration
- Remove any items/obstacles that could contact the vehicle
- Make sure lighting is adequate throughout space
- Have fire extinguisher, first aid kit, battery charger handy
- Inspect space periodically for water intrusion, rodents, etc
- Consider installing surveillance cameras to monitor vehicle
- Use dehumidifiers/moisture absorbers in storage area
- Maintain proper temperature control/ventilation as possible
Periodic Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance
Stored vehicles need periodic inspections and maintenance every 4-8 weeks. This helps catch issues early and keeps components lubricated.
- Start engine and let it reach full operating temperature
- Drive vehicle forward and backward short distance if possible
- Top off fuel tank
- Inspect battery charge and connections
- Check tire air pressure and inflate as needed
- Inspect interior and exterior for any leaks, rodents, etc
- Look under hood for any fluid leaks
- Check undercarriage and exhaust for damage/leaks
- Make sure car cover is secure and vehicle is clean
More extensive maintenance should be done every 6-12 months including oil changes, inspecting brakes, hoses, belts, etc. This extended upkeep helps keep components in good operating condition.
Removing from Storage
When it comes time to remove your car from storage, here is a checklist to go through:
- Charge and reconnect battery if disconnected
- Fill up any fluids that are low
- Inspect tire tread and sidewalls, replace if deteriorated
- Check brakes and brake fluid level
- Flush and replace engine oil, filters, spark plugs if due
- Inspect belts, hoses for cracking/damage
- Clean entire vehicle thoroughly inside and out
- Start engine and look for leaks, odd noises
- Schedule any needed repairs before regular driving
- Have a technician inspect vehicle if stored over 2 years
Driving conservatively for the first several trips gives components the chance to re-acclimate before going back to normal driving. Be alert for any issues or strange sounds during the initial break-in period.
Alternative Storage Options
Besides storing your car yourself, there are companies that offer specialized long term vehicle storage services. These include:
- Professional storage facilities – Offer climate controlled, secure spaces for long term car storage. May provide maintenance services.
- Dealer/manufacturer storage – Some dealers and manufacturers offer programs to store collectible vehicles in optimal conditions.
- Private garage companies – Companies with large garages that rent private spaces suited for car collectors/enthusiasts.
- Self-storage with vehicle parking – Some self-storage facilities have oversized units that can fit cars.
- Automated parking – Structures with automated lifting systems to store multiple vehicles in a compact footprint.
These companies cater specifically to car storage compared to parking the vehicle yourself. The added services, security and ideal conditions may merit the cost for certain owners.
What to Avoid When Storing a Vehicle
Just as important as what to do, there are some things you should avoid when storing your car long term:
- Don’t store with low/empty fuel tank – condensation can accumulate
- Avoid draining all fluids – can cause corrosion in internal components
- Don’t store on uneven/angled surfaces – can lead to flat spots in tires
- Don’t keep parking brake set – can cause brake seizure
- Don’t store near furnaces, water heaters, or heat sources – high temps are damaging
- Avoid direct sun exposure – UV rays break down paint/seals
- Don’t store around rodents or pests – can chew through wires/lines
- Don’t rely on concrete/cement alone – moisture can come through surface
Watch out for these common hazards and mistakes to protect your stored vehicle. An ounce of prevention goes a long way.
Long Term Car Storage Checklist Summary
Storing a vehicle for an extended time takes some preparation but is doable with proper maintenance. Here is a summary checklist of the key steps:
- Store indoors in clean, dry, secure location
- Wash exterior and clean interior thoroughly
- Fill gas tank with fuel stabilizer added
- Change engine oil and filters
- Inflate tires to proper PSI and use jack stands
- Disconnect battery and store it safely or use trickle charger
- Cover vehicle with breathable car cover
- Crack windows open slightly for ventilation
- Use desiccant bags/dehumidifiers in car and storage space
- Periodically start engine and inspect vehicle every 4-8 weeks
- Before driving again, change fluids, inspect components, test systems
Sticking to these guidelines helps maintain your car in optimal shape regardless of how long it sits unused. Always be proactive with preventative care to avoid deterioration when storing vehicles long term.
| Storage Duration | Recommended Maintenance |
|---|---|
| 1-3 months | Monthly inspection, battery tender, start engine |
| 3-6 months | Bi-monthly inspection, battery tender, start engine |
| 6-12 months | Change fluids, inspect components, monthly engine start |
| 1-2 years | Change fluids, inspect components, bi-monthly engine start |
| 2-5 years | Change fluids, inspect components, monthly engine start |
| 5+ years | Change fluids, inspect components, weekly engine start |
Conclusion
Storing a vehicle for extended periods presents some challenges but careful preparation can keep it in as-new condition. The keys are controlling humidity, maintaining proper fluid levels, charging the battery, exercising the engine, and periodically inspecting components. Facilities like self-storage with climate control and security also help for long term storage. With the right techniques, most vehicles can be safely and effectively stored for years at a time.
