Do you have a vehicle that you will be storing for a significant amount of time? Whether for just a few weeks or an extended length of time, take specific steps to protect your vehicle while it is in storage. Sure, it might seem like you should be able to park it and forget about it.  But if you take that approach then you will likely be greeted with an unwelcome surprise.

If a vehicle is left to set without adequate covering and prep work, you may come back to a dead battery, damaged engine, ruined tires, etc.  The repair costs can be expensive. Fortunately, you can mitigate concerns via a few proactive measures.

7 Proactive Steps for Vehicle Storage

Cover it up –

Ideally, you can store your car in a garage so that it is well protected. If a garage is not an option, invest in a weatherproof vehicle cover designed for your ride.

Clean it –

Spend some time washing the exterior and interior of your vehicle. This may seem odd, but you don’t want to put it away dirty. There may be chemical, mud or natural elements that need to be washed off to keep them from damaging your paint job.

Change the oil –

If you only storing for a couple of weeks, then you can skip this step, but if storing for a few months then don’t ignore the value of putting in fresh oil. New oil will keep debris and trash from being allowed to turn into damaging sediment. Opting for synthetic oil from AMSOIL dealer, Buy Great Oil will ensure your engine is protected and ready to roll again, when you are.

Fill it up –

By topping off the gas tank you are keeping the extra room in the tank from moisture build-up. AMSOIL fuel stabilizer can also be added for an extra layer of protection.

Don’t use the parking brake –

If you are leaving it parked for several weeks or months, a tire stopper, aka chock, should be used to hold the tires in place.

Properly inflate the tire –

Check your owner’s manual and find out what the ideal air pressure is and fill your tires accordingly. While you are at it, spend some time checking the tires for any wear and tear on them. Also, be sure to park your vehicle on as flat a surface as possible

Battery maintenance –

When using long-time storage, it is recommended that you take out the battery before the trip. Failing to do this, will often result in a dead battery when you get ready to drive. If you are are going to be gone a brief (less than a month) then get someone to go over at least once a week and crank it up. This will help to keep parts of the engine well-lubricated and protected.

Doing these steps will make a big difference in how your vehicle rides after long-term storage. They may take some time to get done, but when your ride cranks right up with no problems, you will be glad you prepared.