How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage
Putting a car into long-term storage in Palo Alto can cause problems if you don’t prepare it correctly. Your car was designed to be driven, and letting it sit idle for months at a time can easily cause it to break down. Follow these steps to make sure your car is in top condition when you take it out of storage.
Change the Fluids
How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage
Change the oil, brake fluid, and coolant just before putting your car into storage. Fill up your gas tank with a high-quality gasoline. These fresh fluids help keep your car lubricated and prevent corrosion. If you’re going to store your car for a long period of time, use a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from deteriorating.
Disconnect the Battery
Your battery will gradually lose power over time if you’re not driving your car. Disconnecting it is an easy way to prevent this from happening. Or, if your storage unit has electricity, you can hook your battery up to a trickle charger that will supply it with just enough energy to stay charged.
Prop Up Your Tires How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage
Storing your car for months at a time in the same position puts quite a bit of strain on your tires. Inflate your tires to their recommended pressure or a little bit higher before storing your car. If possible, drive your vehicle at least once every 1-2 weeks to more evenly distribute the pressure. If you can’t get out to drive your car, prop it up on jacks or remove the tires altogether.
Clean Your CarHow to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage
When dirt collects in yo ur car, it makes it break down faster. It also attracts rodents and insects that can further damage your vehicle. Clean your car thoroughly inside and out before putting it into storage in Palo Alto, and use a cover when it’s inside the unit to keep out the dust and pests.