5 Tips to Prepare Your Vehicle for Seasonal Storage

Professional car collectors, boat owners, and RV enthusiasts all know the secret: take the time for proper preparation is everything. When you are preparing your vehicle for storage for the season, it isn’t as simple as parking it in a corner of your garage and throwing a tarp over it—especially if you are storing specialized equipment. Even when trusting a luxury car storage facility to store your vehicle, the prep you take care of yourself will make the most difference in your car’s longevity. Here’s five tips from our experts showing what maintenance steps the pros take to handle seasonal vehicle storage.

Cold Weather Prep: 5 Tips to Get Your Vehicle Ready for Storage

1. Find a Safe Storage Location

Before you start prepping your vehicle, it’s important to choose a secure storage location that checks all your boxes. While some people may rely on their driveway or home garage, a professional self storage facility can provide you the extra peace of mind that can only come with a dedicated security plan. If you are considering a storage facility for your vehicle storage needs, consider these factors:

• Proximity to home or work for easy access.
• Indoor vs. outdoor vehicle storage.
• Security measures, such as gated access, security cameras, and on-site staff.

2. Clean Through the Interior and Exterior

Dirt, food crumbs, and other debris can cause problems for your vehicle if you do not properly clean. Keep pests and odors away by doing your due diligence to leave your vehicle in the same condition in which you wish to return to it.

Start with the interior by removing all trash, leftover food, and personal items. Vacuum mats and seats, and wipe down hard surfaces to keep everything fresh. For added protection against moisture, consider placing desiccants or moisture-absorbing packets inside the vehicle.

Next, focus on the exterior. Wash your car thoroughly to remove dirt, road salt, and grime. Follow up with a protective layer of wax to help prevent rust and preserve the paint job. If you’re storing a convertible or an open-top boat, make sure covers are secure and waterproof to guard against the elements. The best cover is one that is specially made for your vehicle.

3. Dedicate Time to Fuel, Fluids & Engine Maintenance

Mechanical preparation is just as important as cleaning.

Start with the fuel system: fill the gas tank completely to reduce moisture buildup, which can lead to corrosion, and add a fuel stabilizer if the vehicle will be stored for more than a few months.

Next, address the fluids—change the oil and filter if storing long-term. Check that coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid are topped off.

Then attend to the battery. Fully charge it before storage, and for longer periods, either remove it or use a trickle charger to maintain the charge and prevent discharge. These steps help ensure your vehicle will start reliably when you return.

4. Focus on Tire Care & Vehicle Positioning for Long-Term Storage

Tires are particularly vulnerable during long periods of storage, as sitting in one position for months can create flat spots. To prevent this, inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure.

If possible, move the vehicle occasionally or, for long-term storage, consider using jack stands to take the weight off the tires entirely. Avoid parking on dirt or grass, since moisture from the ground can accelerate rusting and corrosion. We recommend opting for a concrete or asphalt surface.

5. Final Checks Before Storing

Before closing up your storage unit, perform a final inspection.

• Double-check that windows and doors are fully closed.
• Lock your vehicle securely.
• Take photos of your vehicle for insurance purposes in case of unexpected damage.

 

When to Choose Climate-Controlled Storage for Your Vehicle

Wrapping up your summer adventures with the last few rides out on your boat? Planning ahead for winter RV storage? Whatever seasonal vehicle you have, Storage Sense has the luxury car storage to protect what matters most to you. Fully climate-controlled, our facility keeps your vehicle in perfect condition until your return—no matter what season you need to store through. Storing has never been easier. You can browse Storage Sense’s vehicle storage options from the comfort of your home. Whether storing your extra family vehicle or a flock of business cars, we are the Stamford, CT, area’s #1 choice for self storage options of all sizes. Visit the climate-controlled Storage Sense facility on Courtland Avenue to see the space for yourself, or you can explore our available storage spaces online.

See how Storage Sense helps you save—time, money, and your peace of mind!

---