Smart Car Storage Solutions

As a car owner – especially if you have multiple cars or a seasonal vehicle – finding cost-effective car storage solutions can be the best way to protect your investment.

After all, storing a car safely will prevent car deterioration and save you from expensive repair costs down the line.

Here are six simple strategies when preparing your vehicle for storage to keep it in tip-top shape.

1. Pre-storage prep

As with most things, preparation is the key to success if you want to protect your car during storage.

• Clean the car: Any build-up of dirt or debris, as well as bird droppings, can damage your car’s paint much faster than you might think. Give your car a thorough wash and dry it completely to avoid rusting while it’s stored away.
• Wax and seal: Use a high-quality wax to add a protective layer to your car’s exterior, as it will help shield it against moisture and dust.
• Fluid checks and top-ups: Check the oil, coolant, brake fluid and windshield-wiper fluid to avoid any possible corrosion in the engine and other components. You might always want to add a fuel stabiliser to the petrol tank so that any remaining fuel doesn’t degrade during long-term storage.

2. Battery maintenance

Disconnect the battery if you’re planning on long-term vehicle storage. Alternatively, invest in a battery maintainer or trickle charger

, which will keep the battery charged without overloading it.

Also make sure the battery is clean and dry, as even the smallest amount of moisture could result in corrosion. Spending just a few minutes of your day tackling these jobs can save you from the hassle and cost of a dead battery when you’re ready to hit the road again.

3. Tyre care

Flat spots can appear on your tyres when they sit in the same position for too long, causing them to lose shape. You’ll want to inflate tyres to the recommended pressure before storing your car.

For long-term storage, think about using tyre cradles or jacking up the car to relieve pressure on the tyres. If possible, you should also rotate the tyres every so often.

4. Location and storage environment

The place where you choose to store your vehicle will play the biggest role in how it fares over time. Here are a few things to keep in mind:

• Garage or shed: These will give your car the best protection against the harsh Australian weather.
• Car covers: If indoor storage isn’t an option, invest in a high-quality, breathable car cover to protect your car from the elements while stopping any moisture from building up.
• Vehicle storage costs: Renting a spot at a professional storage facility is another option, but it will come at a price. Many facilities cater to seasonal vehicle storage and have controlled temperature environments to prevent car deterioration.

5. Interior protection

The inside of your car needs as much attention as the outside, so start by removing all personal items that might tempt thieves, and clean up any food scraps or other debris that could attract pests.

Vacuum the interior and use a moisture absorber to stop mould and odours from appearing, especially if you’re storing the car in a humid part of the country. Always place a sunshade or cover over the dashboard to stop it from cracking and fading whenever it’s parked outside.

6. Regular check-ins

Even during long-term storage, you’ll want to check on and maintain your precious vehicle periodically. At the bare minimum, make sure you:

• Start the engine at least every two to three weeks to keep the battery charged and the engine lubricated.
• Check fluid levels and keep an eye out for any signs of leaks or damage.
• Roll the car a few metres to prevent flat spots from appearing on your tyres. It’ll also reveal if there are any issues with the braking system. Even better, take it out for a 15- to 30-minute spin every week or two.

Protecting your car doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. A bit of preparation and regular maintenance will go a long way when storing a car safely and avoiding unnecessary repairs. Whether you’re looking for vehicle storage costs that fit your budget or exploring seasonal vehicle storage options, these tips will help protect your car and stay smarter with your storage solutions.

Disclaimer

Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) has compiled the above article for your general information and to use as a general reference. Whilst all reasonable care has been taken by Viva Energy in compiling this article, Viva Energy does not warrant or represent that the information in the article is free from errors or omissions or is suitable for your intended use.