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Your car is more than just a set of wheels—it’s an investment that needs to be maintained. But when garage space is tight, your ride can be exposed to rust, theft, and the elements. Whether it’s your daily driver, a classic car, or a weekend cruiser, proper long-term car storage is key to keeping your vehicle protected and pristine.
From prep tips to storage timelines, this guide will help you protect your car and keep it road-ready.
Long-Term Car Storage Guide
Storing a car for an extended period requires more than just parking it in a driveway. Whether you’re planning to be off the road for a few months or storing your vehicle for several years, you need to protect your investment. From cleaning and maintenance to choosing the right vehicle storage option, this guide covers everything you need to know about extended auto storage to ensure your ride is ready when you are.
Step 1: Choosing the Right Storage Space
The first step in long-term car storage is picking the best car storage facility for your ride. Whether you choose an enclosed unit with drive-up access or an outdoor covered parking space, you’ll need to find something that suits your comfort level and keeps your automobile safe.
Indoor Car Storage (Recommended)
If you have the option, indoor storage is the safest bet. Garages or climate-controlled storage units protect your vehicle from sun, rain, snow, ice, and extreme temperature swings. This is especially important for classic cars, luxury vehicles, or anything you want to keep in pristine condition.
Outdoor Car Storage
Sometimes indoor storage isn’t an option. While we don’t recommend storing your car outside for long periods of time, outdoor spaces, covered or uncovered, can work too. For uncovered outdoor parking spaces, a high-quality, weatherproof cover is a must to help shield your car from the elements.
Step 2: Ready Your Ride
Leaving a car sitting for months or years without preparation can lead to flat tires, battery drain, paint damage, and even pest problems. With a few simple steps, you can protect your vehicle and keep it ready to hit the road whenever you are.
Car Battery Care
A dead battery is a common problem during long-term storage. Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to keep it healthy. This simple step prevents you from having to come back to a car that won’t start.
Fluids
Engine Oil: Change it before storage to avoid contamination.
Gas Tank: Fill it up to prevent moisture buildup, and add a fuel stabilizer if your car will be stored for more than a few months.
Other Fluids: Check brake, coolant, and transmission fluids and top off as needed.
Tires
Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure and consider tire ramps or blocks to prevent flat spots. If possible, have someone move the car slightly every few months.
Cleaning
Give your car a thorough wash and wax before storing it. Clean the interior, vacuum carpets, and remove any food or trash to prevent attracting pests. Cover the exhaust pipe and air intake to deter rodents, and consider using food-grade diatomaceous earth if you’re storing in a rodent-prone area.
Additional Tips
Wiper Blades: Lift them or wrap them in plastic to prevent sticking.
Parking Brake: Avoid using it; wheel chocks can keep your car stationary without risk of seizing.
Insurance: Keep your car insured, even while in storage. Some policies offer reduced rates for non-operational vehicles.
Security: Consider additional anti-theft measures for peace of mind.
Car Cover: A breathable, snug-fitting car cover keeps dust, dirt, and minor scratches off your vehicle.
Step 3: Rev Up
While you can safely store your car for years on end, you can’t let the vehicle sit unattended for more than 3-6 months tops. You’ll need to have someone periodically inspect your car, start the engine, and even move it slightly to prevent flat spots and fluid settling.
Step 4: Reunite
When you’re ready to take your car out of storage, even if it’s just for a quick ride, you’ll need to run some preliminary tests to ensure it’s still safe to drive.
After long-term storage, your car will need a quick check-up:
Reconnect the battery and start the engine
Inspect tires, brakes, and fluid levels
Look for signs of pests, corrosion, or other damage
Take a short drive to ensure everything runs smoothly before full-time use
Long-Term Car Storage Timeline
Short-term car storage requires less preparation than long-term car storage. Listed below is a general timeline for car storage options that applies to sedans, crossovers, hatchbacks, and pickup trucks alike.
Storage Duration | Preparation & Maintenance Steps |
1–3 Months | - Disconnect or maintain the battery with a trickle charger |
3 Months – 1 Year | - Same prep as 1-3 months |
1–3 Years | - Same prep as 3–12 months |
3+ Years | - Consider professional storage with climate control |
Protect Your Investment with Storage Star
Storing your car doesn’t have to be stressful. With a bit of prep and the proper storage solution, whether an uncovered parking spot, covered car storage, or indoor vehicle storage, you can protect your ride, maintain its value, and keep it ready to roll whenever you want.
Ready to find the perfect storage space for your car? Explore Storage Star’s self-storage options online or contact our team for expert guidance.
Find a storage unit near you and rent now!
FAQs
Can I store my car for months or years without damage?
Yes! With proper preparation, your car can remain safe in storage for months or even years.
Do I need indoor or outdoor storage?
Indoor, climate-controlled storage is ideal, especially for classic or luxury vehicles. Outdoor storage works too, but always use a high-quality, weatherproof car cover to protect your vehicle from sun, rain, and debris.
Should I disconnect the battery?
Yes. Disconnecting the battery or using a trickle charger prevents it from draining and keeps it healthy for long-term storage.
Do I need to add fuel stabilizer?
If your car will sit for more than a few months, adding fuel stabilizer prevents moisture buildup and fuel degradation, keeping your engine ready to run when you return.
How do I prevent flat spots on tires?
Inflate tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure and, if possible, use tire ramps or blocks. Periodically moving the car or rotating the tires helps avoid flat spots.
What about rodents and pests?
Cover your exhaust pipe and air intake, remove food from the car, and consider rodent deterrents like food-grade diatomaceous earth. Periodic inspections can prevent unwanted visitors.
How often should I check on my stored car?
Every 3–6 months is ideal. Start the engine, inspect tires, fluids, and battery, and move the car slightly to prevent long-term issues.
What types of cars can I store?
Cars, trucks, sedans— you name it, you can store it. However, different Storage Star Self-Storage facilities may accommodate vehicles of varying sizes, depending on availability. We can also accommodate motorcycle storage, RV storage, and more! Find a local storage location near you to discuss your storage needs.
