The Best Storage Stratgies

Putting Your Car in Storage: Everything You Need to Know

by Elaine Johnson

If you are planning to put your car into storage, it is important that you take certain steps to ensure that it stays in excellent condition. Below is a guide to everything you need to know.

Store the car in a garage or storage unit

Ideally, for long-term storage, you want to park the car in a garage, so it is protected from the elements. If you do not have access to a garage at home, you should seriously consider hiring space at a vehicle storage yard. If you opt to store your car outside, you will need to block up the exhaust to stop animals from making nests within your car. You should also cover it with a car cover to protect it from the weather.

Remove the battery

If you are leaving your car for an extending period, you should disconnect the battery and store it in a cool and dry place. If you do not disconnect the battery, it will discharge. A car battery which completely discharges can lose its capacity to hold a charge.

Inflate the tyres

Over time, tyres naturally deflate. If you are leaving your car for many months, the tyres may lose a lot of pressure. As the weight of the car presses the bottom of the tyre against the ground it can create flat patches on the rubber which will remain once the tyre is re-inflated. By slightly over-inflating the tyres before you put your car into storage, you can help to prevent this problem.

Fill the petrol tank

It might seem strange to fill the petrol tank when you are planning to put your car into storage, but there is a very good reason for doing so. If you leave a tank half full for an extended period, moisture can build up on the inside which can cause the fuel tank to rust. You should also consider adding a fuel stabiliser which will help to prevent the fuel from going off. If the fuel degrades, it can create a thick sludge which will stick to the bottom of the tank. This sludge could damage your car if it enters the engine.

Leave the handbrake off

Once your car is in position, you should place bricks or wooden chocks in front and behind each wheel to prevent the vehicle from rolling. Leave the handbrake off. If you leave the handbrake on for a long period of time, the brakes will become rusty and will stick to the wheel.

For further advice, contact a company which offers vehicle storage.

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