HOW TO PREPARE YOUR CAR FOR STORAGE

Are you wanting to store your car in a storage facility but are unsure of how to prepare for it? Or maybe you are hesitant because you don’t know how to prepare it to make sure it is in optimal condition before and after storage. Here are some tips to get you started:

CLEAN YOUR CAR

1.) This might be obvious but to some it’s not. CLEAN YOUR CAR- inside and out. Make sure you wash and wax your car to avoid rust, any contaminants and dirt left on the car will turn into rust if left for a long period of time. Make sure there is no food or anything that can leave your car smelling – the smell and letting it sit CAN BE DAMAGING.

TOP OFF FLUIDS

2.) Make sure your car is topped off with necessary fluids- coolant, radiator fluid, transmission fluid and all the works. This will keep condensation from occurring. You don’t want to pick up your car and realize your coolant is at the lowest of the lows.

3.) Change your oil and filter- Used oil can contaminate and cause problems to your engine when stored for more than 30 days, contaminants can trickle down to your engine and cause damage. CHANGE YOUR OIL.

DON’T USE THE PARKING BREAK

4.) Don’t use the parking break- We are usually advised to use our parking brakes but in this case, don’t. When brake pads are in contact with rotors for a long period of time, they tend to fuse- buy a “chock” instead, this will prevent your car from moving.

KEEP YOUR INSURANCE

5.) Do not cancel your insurance- It might be tempting to cancel your insurance especially because you won’t be driving the car. However, it might cost you in the long run. There is a chance that insurance companies will raise your rates because of the gap in your coverage. Check with your insurance company to see if there are other options rather than cancelling it completely.

Preparing your car for storage may take some time but is saves you money in the long run, create a simple checklist to make sure everything is done!