If you’re planning to leave your car in long-term storage, proper preparation is essential to keep it in top condition. Whether you’re storing a classic car, a seasonal vehicle, or simply need extra space at home, self storage provides a secure and convenient solution. Without the right preparation, your car could suffer from battery failure, flat tires, rust, or pest damage. Follow these key steps to ensure your vehicle stays protected while in storage.
1. Choose the Right Vehicle Storage Option
When selecting a vehicle storage facility, consider your needs:
- Indoor storage – Best for maximum protection from weather, dust, and potential damage.
- Covered storage – Provides some weather protection while allowing for easy access.
- Outdoor storage – A budget-friendly option, ideal if your car is properly covered.
Each option has its benefits depending on your budget, the duration of storage, and the level of protection needed. If you’re storing a high-value or classic car, indoor self storage is the best choice, while covered or outdoor storage works well for short-term parking. Ensure the self storage facility offers secure storage with CCTV surveillance, PIN-coded access, and well-maintained grounds. Facilities with additional security measures, such as individually alarmed units and gated access, provide extra peace of mind.
2. Clean and Detail Your Car
Before placing your car in long-term storage, wash and wax it to prevent dirt buildup and protect the paint. Cleaning the interior will also help prevent mould, odours, and pests.
Checklist for Cleaning:
✔ Wash and dry the exterior to prevent corrosion
✔ Apply a protective wax coating
✔ Vacuum the interior and remove any food or perishables
✔ Use moisture absorbers or baking soda inside the car to prevent dampness
Dirt and moisture left on the car’s surface can lead to rust and paint damage over time, especially in humid environments. Taking the extra step to deep clean the car—inside and out—ensures that it remains in pristine condition while in storage.
3. Change the Fluids
Fluids can degrade over time, leading to engine damage. Before storing your car, check and top up:
- Engine oil
- Coolant
- Brake fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Used engine oil can contain contaminants that may cause corrosion inside the engine if left unchanged for months. Additionally, fuel can break down and create deposits inside the fuel system, so adding a fuel stabiliser helps maintain fuel quality and prevents clogged injectors when you restart your vehicle.
4. Maintain the Battery
A dead battery is a common issue after long-term storage. To avoid this:
- Disconnect the battery to prevent drain.
- Use a trickle charger to keep the battery connected.
- If possible, start the car periodically to keep the battery active.
Batteries lose charge over time, and extreme temperatures can accelerate this process. If your self storage unit has access to power, a battery maintainer or trickle charger is a great investment to keep your battery healthy.
5. Inflate the Tyres
Tyres can develop flat spots if left in one position for too long. Inflate them to the recommended PSI before vehicle storage, or consider placing the car on jack stands to relieve pressure.
Flat spots occur when a tyre remains under load in the same position for an extended period, especially in colder climates. If you’re storing your car for six months or longer, raising the vehicle on jack stands is the best way to prevent unnecessary tyre wear and suspension strain.
6. Protect Against Pests
Rodents and insects can cause significant damage to a stored vehicle. To prevent infestations:
✔ Seal exhaust pipes and air intakes with steel wool or mesh
✔ Keep storage doors closed and check for entry points
✔ Avoid leaving food or organic materials inside the car
Rodents are known for chewing on wiring, which can result in costly repairs when you retrieve your car from self storage. Placing mothballs or peppermint oil around your car’s entry points can help deter pests, ensuring your vehicle stays in top condition.
7. Use a Quality Car Cover
Even in indoor storage, a breathable, high-quality car cover helps protect the vehicle from dust and scratches. If using outdoor storage, invest in a weather-resistant cover to shield it from rain, sun, and debris.
Low-quality or non-breathable covers can trap moisture, leading to mildew and potential paint damage. Choose a cover designed specifically for long-term vehicle storage, ensuring it offers proper ventilation while still keeping the car protected from environmental elements.
8. Check Your Insurance and Registration
Before storing your car, review your insurance policy. Some insurers offer storage coverage for parked vehicles, which can help lower costs while ensuring protection. Keep registration up to date if you plan to drive the car after retrieval.
If your car will remain in long-term storage for an extended period, you may be eligible for a reduced-rate insurance policy that covers non-driving risks like theft, fire, and weather damage. However, letting your registration lapse could make it more difficult to get your car back on the road, so check your local regulations before making changes.
9. Plan for Your Return
When you’re ready to take your car out of self storage, follow these steps:
- Inspect for any leaks or damage
- Reconnect the battery and check its charge
- Remove covers from exhaust and air intake
- Check tyre pressure and fluids
- Start the engine and allow it to idle before driving
It’s a good idea to do a short drive around the storage facility to ensure everything is in working order before taking your car back on the road. If your car was stored for an extended period, consider getting a quick maintenance check to ensure all systems are running smoothly.
Final Thoughts
Proper preparation is key to keeping your car in top condition while in long-term storage. Whether you’re storing your vehicle for a few months or longer, a secure storage facility with self storage options ensures that your car is safe and ready to use when needed. By taking the right precautions—like maintaining fluids, protecting against pests, and using quality storage facilities—you can prevent costly repairs and keep your car running smoothly.
Looking for vehicle storage? Contact us today to learn more about our secure self storage solutions!
