Leaving your car unused for an extended period requires more than just locking the doors and walking away.
Whether you’re going abroad, storing a classic vehicle, or keeping a second car for seasonal use, poor preparation can lead to costly damage. Tyres can deform, batteries may die, and moisture can wreak havoc on interiors and electrics.
To keep your car safe, functional, and in top condition, it’s important to store it properly using the right methods. This guide walks you through everything you need to consider for reliable, long-term car storage. Keep reading to find out how to protect your vehicle from damage while it’s not in use.
Pick A Secure Location
Where you keep your car matters just as much as how you prepare it. Ideally, choose a clean, dry garage with a stable temperature. This limits exposure to moisture, UV rays, and pests. If you don’t have access to indoor storage, you can still store your car outdoors with the right protection.
Outdoor storage should include a breathable, weatherproof car cover and, if possible, a solid parking surface like concrete. Avoid leaving the car parked under trees or in long grass, as this encourages rust and mould.
Clean The Car Inside And Out
Before parking it away, give your car a proper clean. Dirt, bird droppings, and tree sap can eat into paint if left for too long. Waxing the car adds a protective layer, reducing the risk of corrosion.
On the inside, remove rubbish, hoover the carpets, and wipe down surfaces. Any food crumbs or damp patches left behind can attract insects or mould. Empty the glove box, door pockets, and boot to prevent surprises later on.
For leather seats, apply a conditioner to stop them drying out. A clean car is far less likely to suffer interior wear and tear over time.
Check And Change The Fluids
Old or contaminated fluids can damage internal components if left sitting for too long. Before long-term storage, top up your fluids and consider changing the oil and oil filter. Fresh oil helps protect your engine and prevents harmful deposits from building up.
Coolant should also be checked to ensure it has the correct antifreeze concentration. In colder locations, this prevents the engine block from cracking due to freezing.
Make sure the windscreen wash contains antifreeze and that the brake fluid is topped up. Don’t forget the power steering and transmission fluids if applicable.
Keep The Battery Charged
Car batteries naturally lose charge over time, especially in cold or damp environments. If left for too long, they can discharge completely or fail permanently.
To avoid this, either disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to keep it topped up. A battery maintainer is ideal if your car is stored in a garage with access to electricity. If not, disconnecting the negative terminal will reduce drain.
Keep in mind that disconnecting the battery might reset some car systems like the clock or radio presets.
Prevent Flat Spots On Tyres
Tyres lose pressure and can develop flat spots if the car sits in one position for too long. This is especially common in colder temperatures or with low-profile tyres.
To prevent damage, inflate the tyres to the upper limit recommended by the manufacturer. You can find this on a sticker inside the driver’s door or in the owner’s manual.
If you’re storing the car for several months, consider using axle stands to take the weight off the tyres. Alternatively, roll the car slightly every few weeks to change the contact point.
🚗 Read more: How Long Do Car Tyres Last In Storage?
Use A Breathable Car Cover
If you’re storing your car outside, don’t settle for just any cover. Cheap plastic covers can trap moisture, leading to condensation and rust.
Invest in a quality breathable car cover that fits your vehicle properly. This allows air to circulate while still protecting from rain, dirt, and UV rays. Ensure the car is completely dry before covering it to avoid mould.
Inside a garage, a dust cover is often enough. It helps keep the car clean without risking trapped moisture.
Fuel System Preparation
Fuel degrades over time. In petrol cars, oxidation and moisture can lead to varnish build-up, which clogs the fuel system. Diesel can also attract microbial growth, especially in damp environments.
For storage over three months, fill the tank to reduce air exposure and add a fuel stabiliser. This helps keep the fuel fresh and protects the engine when you restart the car. After adding a stabiliser, run the engine for a few minutes so it circulates through the system.
Don’t Engage The Handbrake
Leaving the handbrake engaged for a long time can cause the brake pads to stick to the discs or drums. Instead, leave the car in gear (or ‘park’ for automatics) and use wheel chocks to prevent it from rolling.
If you’re storing the vehicle on a slope, use multiple chocks and avoid relying solely on the transmission to hold it in place.
Seal Up Gaps And Entry Points
Long-term storage can attract unwanted guests. Rodents often look for shelter and can chew through wires, seat foam, or insulation. To prevent this, seal up entry points like air vents and tailpipes using steel wool or cloth.
Some people use scented deterrents, like peppermint oil or mothballs, but results can vary. If your garage is in a rural area, regular checks may be necessary.
Avoid Unnecessary Engine Starts
You might think it’s helpful to start the engine occasionally, but unless the car runs for 15 to 20 minutes and gets up to temperature, this can do more harm than good.
Short starts can cause condensation in the exhaust and lead to oil dilution. Unless you’re driving the car regularly, it’s better to leave the engine off and preserve all systems in a stable state.
Protect Against Moisture And Mould
Damp is one of the biggest threats to stored cars. To reduce humidity, place moisture absorbers like silica gel or dehumidifier tubs inside the cabin.
Cracking a window slightly (if the car is stored in a locked garage) can help with airflow. Just ensure that no water can get in through the gap.
Open the boot and bonnet slightly as well to allow airflow around those areas, but avoid this if the car is stored outdoors.
Notify Your Insurer
Most insurance policies cover cars in use, but you’ll need to check your terms for long-term storage. Inform your insurer that your car won’t be driven and request coverage suited to storage-only conditions.
You may also qualify for laid-up insurance, which covers fire, theft, and accidental damage but excludes driving. It could save you money during the months the car is not in use.
Always keep proof of SORN (Statutory Off Road Notification) if you’re not taxing the vehicle.
Record The Storage Date And Details
Note down the date you prepared the car and everything you did before storing it. This log will help when you’re ready to bring it back into service.
Make a list of fluids checked, items disconnected, and any products used. This small step can prevent confusion later and remind you what needs to be reversed when you’re ready to drive again.
Preparing To Bring The Car Back Into Use
When it’s time to drive the car again, don’t just jump in and turn the key. Check for signs of leaks, tyre pressure loss, or flat spots. Reconnect the battery and make sure all lights and electrics work properly.
If the fuel has been sitting for months, consider topping it up with fresh petrol or diesel. Check all fluid levels and inspect the brakes before heading out on the road.
Take it easy for the first few miles. Let the engine run and warm up gently while you listen for anything unusual.
Keeping Your Car Protected Long-Term Is Worth The Effort
Storing your car for the long term is about preserving value, maintaining safety, and avoiding unnecessary damage. With the right location, proper preparation, and ongoing care, your car can stay in excellent condition while it’s off the road.
Each step may seem small, but together, they make a real difference. Whether you’re planning a winter break or protecting a cherished vehicle, take the time to prepare it properly.
