While it is better for a vehicle to be driven every few weeks to ensure that the engine and components stay lubricated and in working order, we know that this is not always possible. Here are some precautions you can take if storing your vehicle for a month or more, to ensure that it is ready when you need it again.

Vehicles are best stored in a clean, dry place away from the elements. At Eagle Eye Self Storage, our secure self storage units are perfect for this.

1.   Wash and Clean

Perishable items such as food scraps and paper attract vermin. Ensure the interior of the vehicle is clean and rubbish free. For leather seats, use a leather protector cream to prevent cracking and drying.

Wash and chamois dry the exterior of the vehicle. Bird droppings can eat away at the paint and bugs, dirt, grease and water spots may leave stains. Apply a wax polish for added protection.

2.   Change the oil and filter

Many owners’ manuals recommend changing the oil and filter. Used engine oil has contaminants that could corrode or damage the engine overtime if left.

3.   Fluid Levels

Before storing, top up all fluids to the recommended level. This will help prevent condensation and keep the seals from drying out

4.   Fuel

Fill the petrol tank with a premium fuel. This will help prevent condensation and rust .Ethanol based fuels are not recommended.  A fuel stabiliser added will also assist in protecting the engine from gum and rust build up.

5.   Tyres and Brakes

Leave the handbrake off with the vehicle in gear and chock the wheels.  Long term, the brake pads may fuse to the disc or drum causing damage or wear.

If storing your vehicle for a month or two, tyres should be inflated to the recommended pressure or just over.  Longer term tyres will loose their pressure resulting in flat spots and damage to the tyres. To prevent this, the vehicle could be raised and secured on jacks or the tyres removed and stored flat.

6.   Disconnect the battery

If left connected, batteries will eventually lose their charge. If you are not able to have someone start the vehicle every few weeks, disconnect the battery terminals.

7.   Protect the wiper blade

Overtime the rubber wiper blades will perish or stick to the windscreen. Place a protective sheet beneath the wiper blades to prevent damage.

8.   Lock the vehicle

To help keep it secure, lock the vehicle and keep the keys in a separate safe place.

9.   Use a car cover

While it maybe under cover, storage units still get dust and bugs entering them. A breathable car cover will help keep the exterior in good condition.

Always check the user manual for items specific to your vehicle, and lastly, don’t forget to update your insurance coverage and notify them the car is in secure storage.

When ready to remove your vehicle again check and action the following:

•    Inspect the vehicle for overall condition

•    Oil, water and coolant levels are sufficient. Inspect under the vehicle for any leaks.

•    Tyre pressures are correct and tyres don’t have any flat spots

•    Wiper blades remain in good condition.

•    Reconnect or replace the battery

•    Take the vehicle for a test drive to check allis in working order, including brakes and indicator lights.

The team at Eagle Eye Self Storage are available to answer your questions and assist in ensuring there is a solution right for you.

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