How to Store a Car
Storing a car is as simple as park, lock and leave, right? Not exactly. Storing a car improperly can cause serious damage to your vehicle — that's why Frank from Public Storage is here to teach you how to store a car with these easy-to-remember tips.
Step 1 - Clean the Interior and Exterior
Okay, we know if you're storing a vehicle long-term it doesn't exactly make sense to give it a good cleaning inside and out. But stains or droplets that sit for an extended period of time can cause permanent damage that can be avoided with just a little soap and water.
Step 2 - Change the Oil, Filter and Coolant
This is important if you're leaving your baby in storage for an extended period of time (more than a month) or if you're storing a car for winter. Be sure to talk to your mechanic about the type of oil that you put in, some can cause damage if left for too long.
Step 3 - Fill up Your Gas Tank
Putting fresh fuel in your car will help prevent moisture buildup in your tank - this can happen if your vehicle is stored for more than 30 days. Also, fuel stabilizer can be especially useful for long-term storage. It helps keep the fuel fresh for up to a year.
Step 4 - Overinflate Tires
Be sure to overinflate your tires. If tires sit for too long without enough air they can develop flat spots, which is when tires lose their round shape. This can be very dangerous to discover on your ride home after you retrieve your vehicle from storage.
Step 5 - Protect the Battery
Don't forget to protect your battery's charge while your vehicle is not in use. The best thing you can do is remove the battery, take it home and put it on a float-charger (also called a trickle charger), this way you know that when you're ready to ride, your ride is ready to run. However, if you can't remove the battery, simply disconnect.
Step 6 - Surround the Car with Cedar/Moth Balls
Nothing's worse than getting your car from storage and discovering that an entire critter colony has taken up residence in your vehicle. Make sure all of your windows are closed and keep your car as sealed as possible. One trick to help repel pests is to surround your vehicle with cedar balls or moth balls.
You're ready to store your car like a pro. The hardest part now is probably going to be saying goodbye to your baby.
Don't fret if you can't remember everything. Just Download our Tip Sheet PDF and keep it in your back pocket on move-in day.