Redlands, CA storage facility shares tips for how to prepare your car for long term storage
Posted by Dr. Terry Vines

Choose a storage facility
When picking a storage facility, you’ll want to consider your specific needs. If you are storing your car because there is no room in your garage, but you plan on driving it frequently, you’ll want to make sure the facility is easily accessible. You’ll also want to make sure that the car is in a dry place, so it won’t rust. Indoors is always better, especially when it comes to an older vehicle. It’s best to choose a climate-controlled facility if possible.Fill the tank
You’ll want to make sure your car has a full tank of gas to prevent moisture build-up, rusting, and dried out seals. You’ll also want to add a fuel stabilizer to prevent damage to the fuel system and prevent a buildup of ethanol.Change the fluids
If you are storing your car longer than 60 days, you’ll want to change the oil. Dirty oil can thicken over time and can have contaminants that affect the engine and the ability to start the car when you retrieve it. It’s also a good idea to check the other fluid levels and top them off, including making sure the car has enough antifreeze.Wash it

Get Jacks for underneath the tires
When a car is in long term storage, the weight on the tires can cause them to get flat spots. Putting the car on jack stands will help ensure that you don’t need a brand-new set of tires when you are ready to take it out.Disconnect the battery
An unused battery can leak acid, which can corrode the inside of the car. Simply disconnect it before you leave the storage facility to prevent this from happening.Plug the tailpipe
This will help prevent critters from entering the car and protect it from moisture. Rags will work just fine. Just make sure to remove them before starting the car back up again.
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909-389-6209
909-389-6209
Remove the windshield wipers
Windshield wipers can become brittle after a prolonged period without use. Just take them off and place them inside the car.Cover the car
Make sure you use a real car cover because it will fit tightly over the car and will be made of the right materials that are soft and breathable. Never use a plastic cover over a car as it can scratch the paint.Choose Vines Storage in Redlands, CA for your long-term car storage needs
At Vines Storage, we have a large facility designed to keep your car protected from the elements and free up important space in our garage. Our secure storage is monitored 24 hours per day with 56 cameras and the entire facility is surrounded by a tall concrete wall to ensure your items are safe.Preparing your car for long term storage takes a little bit of work on the front end but doing it right will ensure that when the time is right, you will find a well-preserved car. Without proper preventative maintenance, you could find yourself spending a lot of money on repairs to get the car in running condition again.
We offer comprehensive storage of all vehicles from cars to trucks, RVs and boats. To learn more about our storage solutions, please give us a call at 909-389-6209.
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