Car Storage Tips

By Media Manager

Car Storage Tips

Owning a car can bring joy, freedom, and convenience to our lives. A car can range for many functions; as a project to work on, or a means for your daily commute. Sometimes, storage may be needed to keep your car while it is not in use. Properly storing your car is crucial to ensure it remains in top condition when you are ready to drive it once again. Here at KeepSafe StorAll, located in Antioch near Oakley, Pittsburg, and Concord, we store cars for many of our customers. As experts in car storage, we have a few essential tips for car storage to help you preserve your precious ride.

1. Find the Right Storage Space

Choosing the right storage location is the first step in ensuring your car remains safe and well-preserved. Look for a spot that offers some protection from the elements, such as a carport or a covered area. Here at KeepSafe, we offer ample covered storage to keep your car protected from the elements when you store with us. Click here to learn more about the covered storage areas we offer our customers. 

2. Prepare Your Car for Storage

Before storing your car, take the time to give it a thorough clean, both inside and out. Remove any debris within it, vacuum the interior, and wash and wax the exterior to protect the paint. Clean the car's undercarriage as well, as accumulated dirt and grime can lead to corrosion over time.

3. Fluids and Filters

Properly maintaining your car's fluids and filters is vital for its long-term storage. Change the engine oil and filter to prevent contaminants from causing engine damage while the car is idle. It's also a good idea to top up all fluids, such as coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and windshield washer fluid, to their recommended levels.

4. Fuel and Fuel Stabilizer

Fill up your car's gas tank to prevent moisture from accumulating inside and potentially causing rust. Add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to prevent the gasoline from breaking down over time. This step is especially important if you plan to store your car for more than a few months.

5. Tires

Properly inflated and protected tires are essential for long-term car storage. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, and if possible, elevate the car off the ground using jack stands to relieve pressure on the tires. This prevents flat spots from forming during storage. If you gave your own jack stands, we encourage you to bring them when storing with us. 

6. Battery Maintenance

Car batteries tend to drain over time, especially during extended periods of inactivity. To prevent a dead battery when you return to your car, either disconnect the battery or invest in a trickle charger. A trickle charger will maintain the battery charge during storage and ensure your car starts without any issues when you're ready to use it again.

Here at KeepSafe StorAll, we offer trickle charges for our customers when they store with us. If you are not interested, we can offer you a lower price. Reach out to us about our current availability here. 

7. Protect the Interior

To preserve the interior of your car, use a quality car cover made from breathable material. This will protect against dust and light while allowing for proper ventilation. Additionally, you can use a moisture absorber or silica gel packets inside the cabin to prevent mold and mildew growth.

8. Regular Maintenance Checkups

Periodic checkups of your car are essential to ensure everything remains in good condition while it is in storage. Ideally, schedule a maintenance check every few months or follow the manufacturer's recommendations. This will help you catch any potential issues early on and address them before they escalate.

Properly storing your car for the long term is essential to preserve its value and ensure it remains in excellent condition when it's time to drive again. By following these tips, you can rest assured that your ride will be ready to hit the road when you are ready to use it once more. Remember, a little effort in storage preparation can go a long way in keeping your automotive investment safe and sound. 

If you are looking for affordable storage in the Bay Area, consider storing with us at KeepSafe StorAll. We are located in Antioch, CA near both the 4 and 160 highways. We have ample storage space for you to keep your car when it is not in use. Reach out to us about our current availability and our rates.