Many car drivers use their vehicle every day, but from time to time it’s necessary to consider long-term storage. Some people don’t use their car over the winter months or need to leave the country for a while, and this means that it’s time to store away the family auto. If you need to put your car into long-term storage, use the following tips from DCH Millburn Audi to make sure that your vehicle remains in excellent working order.
Find a good place to store the car
You probably won’t want to leave your car exposed to the elements if you’re not going to use it. Find a sheltered place to keep the car like a garage, shed, or outhouse that can protect the vehicle from the rain. Search local ads for reasonably priced accommodation if you don’t have your own garage. If there’s nothing available, invest in a high-quality weatherproof car cover which will at least protect your car from the weather.
Thoroughly clean the car
Dirt and debris on your car may cause damage, so give the car a thorough clean before storing it. Remove bird droppings or tree sap, which can both damage paint work, and get rid of mud or oil from the wheels and fenders. Apply a good quality wax or sealant to the exterior, as this will protect the paint from any dirt or dust that accumulates in storage.
Fill up your gas tank
Some drivers make the mistake of emptying the gas tank when they put their cars into storage. Topping off your gas tank stops moisture from accumulating inside the tank, and will also make sure the seals don’t dry out. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer, which will protect the engine from rust and ensure the fuel doesn’t deteriorate.
Charge the battery
Even though you aren’t going to drive the car for a while, it’s a good idea to make sure the battery charge doesn’t run out. If you can’t get somebody to come and visit the car, charge and disconnect the battery completely. Otherwise, you can buy a trickle charger that plugs into the electricity supply and continuously gently charges the battery.
Inflate your tires
It’s always a good idea to inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. While the car is stationary, the weight of the vehicle pressing on the tires can cause damage, particularly in cold temperatures. Another solution to consider is removing all four wheels and jacking the car up on all four corners. This is hard work, but it’s worth it for cars that will be stored for a month or more.
Protect the car from pests
Cars give rats and mice lots of places to hide and keep warm and these creatures can cause damage if they gnaw at wires. Plug obvious places (like the exhaust pipe) where rodents could get in, and consider laying traps or poison. Make sure you close all the car windows tightly and remove any food or trash from the car that may attract pests.
Don’t cancel your insurance
Your car is a valuable asset. Even though it’s not on the road, it could still suffer damage in storage. If you cancel your insurance, you may have to pay more when you decide to start driving it again. Talk to your insurance company about the options available to you.
It’s important to prepare your car properly for long-term storage. Your vehicle is probably worth a lot of money, so protect your investment and make sure your car is just the way you left it when you come back.
