5 Big Mistakes People Make When Storing Their Car
Storing your car for a while? Whether you’re heading off on a long overseas adventure or tucking your classic beauty away for the season, getting car storage right is key to keeping it in top condition. A few common mistakes can lead to costly repairs and frustration later on, but with the right steps, you can avoid all the hassle.
At our secure storage facilities throughout Auckland, we’ve helped many car owners sidestep common car storage pitfalls. In this article, we share five mistakes people often make when storing their cars, and, most importantly, how to avoid them.
1. Failing to Clean the Vehicle Before Storage
One of the most overlooked steps in vehicle storage is cleaning the car thoroughly before you store it. It might seem unnecessary, but dirt, grime, and road salt left on the exterior can wreak havoc on your paint job, especially if left for extended periods. Over time, these elements can cause scratches, dull the paintwork, or even lead to rust (an absolute nightmare for anyone storing their classic cars or other prized vehicles).
The interior isn’t immune to trouble either. Food crumbs and spills might not seem like a big deal, but they’re an open invitation for pests. The last thing you want is to return to your car and find that mice or insects have turned your seats or wiring into their new abode.
The solution: To protect your investment and ensure your car stays well maintained, take the time to wash and wax the exterior and thoroughly vacuum and clean the interior. Make sure everything is dry before storage to prevent moisture build-up.
2. Not Filling the Tank or Changing the Oil
Neglecting the fuel tank and oil before putting a car into storage is another big mistake. Storing a vehicle with a partially empty fuel tank can lead to condensation forming inside the tank. Over time, this moisture can cause rust in the fuel tank and fuel lines, which can be a major issue when you’re trying to get your car back on the road. This risk is particularly high if you store your vehicle for more than a month.
Neglecting the oil is equally risky. Old oil sitting in the engine can become corrosive, leading to engine damage. This is especially important if you’re putting the vehicle in storage for several months or longer.
The solution: Fill the tank with quality fuel and consider adding a fuel stabiliser for long-term vehicle storage. Change the oil and take a short drive to circulate it through the engine before putting it away.
3. Ignoring Tyre Pressure
Tyres naturally lose pressure over time, especially when a car sits idle for weeks or months. If left stationary with under-inflated tyres, flat spots can develop where the tyre’s in constant contact with the ground. This can lead to uneven tread wear, a bumpy ride when you get it back on the road, and in severe cases, permanent tyre damage that requires costly replacements.
For classic cars, which are often stored for extended periods, the risk increases. Tyres for these vehicles can be expensive and may be difficult to replace if damaged. Extended pressure on under-inflated tyres can also put unnecessary stress on the rims.
The solution: Before putting your vehicle in storage, inflate the tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure. For longer storage, consider over-inflating slightly to compensate for pressure loss over time. Another option is to use tyre jacks or blocks to lift the car and take the weight off the tyres altogether.
4. Forgetting to Disconnect the Vehicle Battery
Even when you’re not driving your vehicle, the battery continues to power small systems like the clock, alarm, and other electronics. Over time, this gradually drains the battery. Returning to your vehicle after an extended period, only to find a dead battery, isn’t just a major inconvenience. It could also mean the added expense of replacing it, as a dead battery can lose its ability to hold a charge.
The solution: For short-term car storage, simply disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining. If you’re planning on long-term vehicle storage, a better option is to use a battery maintainer, which keeps the battery charged without overloading it.
5. Leaving the Car Uncovered or in an Unsecure Location
One of the biggest mistakes people make with car storage is leaving their vehicle exposed to the elements or in an unsecure location (same goes for boat storage). Weather conditions such as rain, UV rays, and even dust can damage the exterior of your vehicle over time, causing the paint to fade, rust to form, and moisture to build up.
With 4,774 vehicles stolen in Auckland in 2023, there’s also a clear risk of theft or even vandalism if you leave your car in an unsecured vehicle storage site. Without proper security measures, your vehicle is vulnerable!
The solution: Always cover your vehicle with a breathable car cover, even in indoor storage, to prevent dust and moisture from causing damage. Additionally, choose a vehicle storage facility with strong security measures, such as CCTV and restricted access, to give you total peace of mind.
Secure Car Storage Auckland
Avoiding these common mistakes is key to keeping your car in pristine condition while it’s in car storage. It can save you money on repairs and also give you peace of mind.
At our car storage facilities throughout Auckland, we’ve got you covered (literally). With a range of safe storage unit options, you can protect your car from the elements and keep it out of the reach of thieves or vandals.
Ready to protect your pride and joy with reliable vehicle storage? Contact us for a quote today!