How to Store a Vehicle for an Extended Period

If you don't plan on using your car for an extended period of time, you should be looking for appropriate storage solutions. Leaving your car on the side of the road isn't a good idea, largely because of the risk of damage from other vehicles, or from debris and grit thrown up from the road surface. More importantly, if the car is exposed to the elements for any length of time, you could see damage to the paint work or mechanical parts. To keep your vehicle in tip-top condition, follow these tips from Hall Acura Virginia Beach to sort out the best long-term storage for a car.

Finding the right place to store your vehicle is imperative. It should be stored somewhere secure (locked and, ideally, with security alarm), cool, dry, and indoors. Ensure there is a reasonable flow of fresh air to prevent damp air building up. Invest in traps to deter rodents, which can chew through wiring and cause significant damage to your car. Make sure it's a location you can easily get to in order to check in on the car from time to time, too.

Make sure the car is as clean as possible before packing it up for storage. Mud and debris may look harmless enough, but can cause corrosion after a while if left in contact with bodywork. Once the car has been washed thoroughly, apply a good-quality wax to seal the paint work and protect it for the entire storage period.

It's a good idea to put the car up on jack stands so the tires are not left supporting the weight of the car. Even after a short period of time, this can damage the tires. Position the jack stands in the right place on the vehicle to ensure the weight is evenly distributed. You should also fill the gas tank with gasoline to prevent the tank from oxidizing. Remove the engine oil and replace with a synthetic, which will last longer and won't break down.

You should normally disconnect the battery, in order to prevent it going flat or inadvertently activating the alarm. The battery should be stored in an airtight container with the car, so you can easily re-install it and drive the car, if you wish. You should regularly charge the battery with a charger to ensure it remains in full working order.

The car should ultimately also be covered with an appropriate cover or tarpaulin. Make sure the cover fits properly and protects the entire vehicle. Buy a manufacturer-recommended item you can be confident offers good protection and doesn't deteriorate over time. Make sure the cover is properly fitted too, and it cannot slip off. By following these tips, you can help ensure your car is ready for an extended period of storage.