Fortunately, in South Louisiana, the weather is nice and vehicles can be driven year round. Still there may be times when it is necessary to store a vehicle, for a period of time. While storing a vehicle is always less desirable than driving it, there are measures that will lessen the detrimental effects.
Storing a vehicle in an enclosed garage or at least under a carport will greatly decrease deterioration. Plastic covers, placed over a vehicle that is left out of doors are not effective and can promote rusting.
Thoroughly washing and then waxing a vehicle before storing will help preserve the paint. Covering the washed and waxed vehicle with a breathable cloth cover will enhance the protection.
Cleaning the interior thoroughly will not only help preserve it, it may help prevent insects and rodents from finding their way inside. Pest are in search of food, water and shelter. Removing any traces of food and water helps prevent their entry.
Moth balls are also effective at keeping rodents out of vehicles. Use brightly colored socks to hold three or four moth balls. Place several socks under the hood and under the vehicle. The socks keep the moth balls in place and the bright color makes the socks easier to locate when it's time to remove them.
Batteries should be kept charged. A dead battery will rarely come back after sitting and lack of charge, over time can cause problems with electrical components. Make sure all accessories are turned off and the battery is fully charged before storing. Small battery chargers designed to maintain a charge will work. Larger chargers can over-charge and damage the battery.
Supporting the vehicle on jack-stands with the tires just off the ground, can help prevent tires from becoming flat-spotted. Inflate the tires to full pressure before storing the vehicle. Also be aware, tires have a safe age. Replace tires that are too old before you resume driving.
Old fuel can damage fuel systems. Before storing, run the tank close to empty. Fill the tank with fresh fuel, add fuel stabilizer and then drive to mix. Stabilizer will help fuel last much longer, but it cannot regenerate old fuel.
Be certain coolant is fresh and adequate to protect the vehicle. Coolant protects from corrosion as well as freezing. If the coolant has not been recently replaced, change it before storing.
Fresh engine oil is also important. Change the engine oil before storing and again before driving, if stored for more than three months. With extending storage changing transmission, power steering and differential fluid is also a good idea, before driving.
Convertible tops should always be stored in the up position. Tops stored in the down position can shrink and a can allow unwanted “guest” to enter the passenger compartment.
Metal protecting sprays can help prevent rust on exposed metal parts and engine accessories.
Keeping the garage door closed and not “advertising” that a vehicle is stored, may help prevent theft and vandalism.
