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When safeguarding your car during periods of non-use, proper preparation is key. When planning to park your vehicle in a self-storage unit, carefully planned steps will help maintain its appearance and functionality. Below is a detailed guide for preparing your car for storage, covering everything from cleaning and pest deterrence to fluid maintenance and special considerations for electric vehicles.
Preparing Your Vehicle
Before placing your car in storage, it is wise to begin with a complete cleaning of both the interior and exterior. Start by thoroughly washing the car’s body, wheels, and the area around the fenders. Pay special attention to surfaces frequently touched, such as the steering wheel, door handles, gear selector, and dashboard, to ensure all grime, water spots, and bird droppings are removed. These contaminants, if left behind, can harm the vehicle’s finish. For an extra layer of protection, consider applying a coat of wax, which helps guard against minor abrasions and environmental damage during storage.
Controlling Pests
Storing your car for an extended period might inadvertently create a haven for small critters. Rodents, including mice and insects such as cockroaches, can be attracted to the warmth and shelter provided by your vehicle, especially when the weather turns colder. Although a meticulous cleaning can drive away pests that might be present when storing, it is equally vital to prevent new visitors. Seal any openings where these pests might enter, particularly around areas like the exhaust pipe and air intake vents. For instance, filling gaps with steel wool can be very effective. Additionally, you might scatter mothballs or cotton swabs soaked in peppermint oil near potential entry points to discourage nesting. If you opt for traps or pest control agents, remember that regular monitoring is essential to avoid any unpleasant surprises later.
Enhancing Security
A stored vehicle can be a tempting target for thieves if not securely stored. Store the key in a Faraday pouch for cars equipped with a keyless entry system to prevent digital interception. Invest in a steering wheel lock if your vehicle relies on a traditional ignition system to add a robust physical barrier. Another smart measure is the installation of a dash cam that offers a monitoring mode. This not only records any suspicious activity but also serves as a visual deterrent. Ensuring that your car is securely locked and protected goes a long way in keeping it safe during long-term storage.
Caring for Your Car’s Battery
An often-overlooked aspect of vehicle storage is maintaining the battery’s charge. A car battery left idle for too long may lose its charge, potentially leaving you with a dead battery when you are ready to use your vehicle again. To avoid this, arrange for someone, a friend, family member, or neighbour, to start the engine every few weeks. Alternatively, you may want to disconnect the battery or invest in a smart charger that automatically manages and preserves the battery’s charge level. This simple step can save you from the inconvenience and expense of replacing a neglected battery.
Fuel Management
Fuel care is another crucial element of vehicle storage preparation. Fill the fuel tank before storing your car. A nearly empty tank can lead to moisture build-up, which might result in rust or other issues affecting the fuel system. To preserve the fuel’s integrity, add a fuel stabiliser. This additive keeps the gasoline in good condition by preventing the formation of gum and corrosion for up to a year. After adding the stabiliser, take the car for a short drive to ensure the treated fuel circulates thoroughly throughout the system.
Oil and Lubrication
Fresh oil is critical for preserving the engine’s internal components. It is wise to replace the oil and filter before storage, even if your car is not due for its regular oil change. It prevents old, degraded oil from causing corrosion inside the engine. For extra protection, consider applying a small amount of oil into each cylinder – a step you can perform if you are comfortable removing the spark plugs. Safeguard exposed metal parts beneath the vehicle by coating them with WD-40. It helps prevent rust; however, avoid contact with belts, brake surfaces, or hoses, which could be affected by the liquid.
Maintaining Other Fluids
Beyond engine oil, other vital fluids deserve attention. Components like the transmission fluid, coolant, and axle fluid play significant roles in your car’s operation. Over time, these fluids may deteriorate, leading to internal corrosion or damage. Top off these fluids to the recommended levels, and if regular maintenance is due, replace them entirely. During colder months, it is beneficial to drain the existing coolant and refill it with an antifreeze formulated to resist corrosion. Such proactive measures help ensure that all vehicle parts remain in good condition.
Brake and Tyre Considerations
Leaving the parking brake engaged for long periods can cause the brake pads or shoes to adhere to the rotors or drums, potentially leading to costly repairs. Instead of relying on the parking brake, use wheel chocks to prevent your vehicle from unwanted movement. Equally important is the care of your tyres. Prolonged pressure in one spot can cause permanent flat spots. Raise the car using jack stands to relieve the tyres from constant weight. This step is vital if your vehicle will remain in storage for an extended period.
Protecting Your Car’s Exterior
A protective cover can do wonders for preserving your car’s exterior. A well-fitted cover keeps dust at bay and shields the car’s paint and metal surfaces from moisture and other environmental factors. This simple measure adds an extra defence against minor scratches and weather-induced damage.
Special Tips for Electric Vehicles
Electric vehicles (EVs) require a few additional precautions when being stored. Most advice mentioned earlier applies, yet EVs have unique battery management requirements. Charge the battery to roughly 50% or follow the manufacturer guidelines in your owner’s manual to maintain battery health during storage. If your electric car has a scheduled charging feature, ensure it is programmed correctly to avoid any issues. If you are concerned about battery depletion, consider activating a remote pre-conditioning feature periodically. These steps ensure that your electric vehicle remains in optimal condition while stored.
Wrapping Up
Taking the necessary steps to prepare your car for storage is a task that requires attention to detail, but the rewards are well worth the effort. From comprehensive cleaning and pest deterrence to ensuring that all fluids and components are in peak condition, these measures will help preserve your vehicle’s performance and appearance. Whether planning a seasonal break or an extended period away from your car, these guidelines will help you keep it in top shape.
Before you make your final decision, remember that a specialised self-storage facility can provide much more than just a place to park. When looking around for secure vehicle storage in Sydney, doing your homework is essential. Assess your specific requirements and choose the right car storage option that meets your needs.
Ready to protect your vehicle with expert care?
Hills Self Storage is proud to offer premium car storage in Galston. Our state-of-the-art storage units are designed with your vehicle’s safety and longevity in mind, featuring advanced security measures and maintenance options.
Contact Hills Self Storage today to discover how our comprehensive vehicle storage solutions can provide peace of mind and superior protection for your car.
