As the seasons come and go, you will find that you likely need to store your car, especially if you want to keep it safe from road salts or when you find you cannot drive it in certain conditions. Before you store any car, you want to make sure you prep it properly so that it is ready for you when you return. Improper storage of a car can lead to serious repairs upon removing it from the unit.
Below, you will find some tips to help you properly store your car in any season.
Tip #1: Don’t forget to change the oil and fill the gas tank.
The oil in your car needs to be changed before you store it to prevent the old oil from gumming up and turning into sludge. It is also important that you fill the gas tank and use a fuel stabilizer to prevent moisture from getting into the fuel tank, as this can lead to corrosion.
Tip #2: Have your car washed and detailed.
You should have your car washed on the exterior to ensure that all mud, dirt, and residue is removed, as this can lead to scratches or it can cause the paint to peel.
After having your car washed, you should prep the interior of the car such as placing a box of baking soda in the car to absorb odors, blocking off the exhaust pipes to prevent critters, and lubricate the door hinges to ensure they do not creek or rust.
Tip #3: Top off all fluids in the car.
You should top off all fluids in the car to include the brake fluid, transmission fluid, and antifreeze. Any fluids that are low should be filled to the proper lines before you store the car.
Tip #4: Care for the battery.
If you will store your vehicle for a long period, you want to remove the battery completely from the car. If you notice that the terminals of the battery are corroded, you should clean them carefully.
Sometimes, batteries drain and discharge when stored for a long time. You could use a battery maintainer to help keep it charged.
Use These Tips to Help You Properly Store Your Care
No matter the season, these four tips will help you store your car properly. By following these steps, you can ensure that your car will run smoothly when you return and fetch it from the storage unit.