Most of us will need to store our car at one time or another, or at least not use it for a few weeks. The following information is a guide to storing your car and returning it to service while, as far as possible, avoiding some of the problems that can arise.

Firstly, it is appropriate to start with a word of warning. Storing a vehicle for long periods may result in unavoidable problems, no matter how well it is prepared. Components can corrode, deteriorate and seize up from lack of use and often there is little, if anything, that can be done to prevent it. If you plan to store your car for more than a few months, be prepared for some repair bills when it’s due to go back into service, and probably afterwards as well, as some problems may take some time to appear.

Without doubt the best way to store a vehicle is to not store it at all, but have someone you trust drive it regularly. Preferably this should be weekly for about 30 minutes to allow everything to reach operating temperature and to circulate oils and fluids. This use, while infrequent, offers the best chance of ensuring that everything continues to operate properly. Inevitably, however, things will go wrong simply through normal wear and tear. Do not overlook the fact that regular servicing will be required, even when the vehicle doesn’t travel any significant distance. Servicing should be scheduled for every six months even if the vehicle hasn’t travelled the required distance.

If you can’t arrange for regular use, the appropriate method of storage will depend on the length of time you plan to store the vehicle. In all cases the vehicle should be stored in a secure, enclosed area. If this is not possible avoid parking near trees or in areas where the vehicle is exposed to atmospheric contamination. Open sided carports are not ideal but are better than no protection at all. Car covers should be used to prevent dust build up that could damage paint and bright work, however, avoid car covers in areas where the vehicle will be exposed to wind, as moving car covers will wear through the paint on panel edges and corners.

For periods up to about four weeks no special treatment is necessary, however the vehicle should be cleaned inside and out and left to thoroughly dry before being stored. The fuel tank should be filled to prevent condensation and tyres inflated to approximately 30 kpa above their normal pressure. Depending on the battery’s condition and vehicle’s electrical load, it will probably retain its charge for this period of time, however if the battery is in poor condition or the vehicle has a high electrical drain, it may have to be recharged or replaced at the end of the storage period.

Apart from correcting tyre pressures, there are no special requirements for putting the vehicle back into service after a short period of storage, however it is important to be on the look out for any issues that may arise as a result of the storage. These can include brake and clutch hydraulic problems and coolant leaks.

For periods greater than about one month you should have the vehicle serviced, oils, coolant and brake and clutch fluids changed. The fuel tank should be filled to prevent condensation. The body should be cleaned and polished and chrome work should be sprayed with a protective spray such as WD 40 or similar. The interior trim should be cleaned and treated with a suitable vinyl protector. Ensure that the body/chassis rust proofing is in sound condition as general body corrosion may occur if the vehicle is stored in a humid environment or is stored wet.

All engine openings such as intake; exhaust and breathers should be plugged with rag wherever possible. The battery should be removed and the battery tray cleaned with warm water and baking soda and coated with a protective spray such as WD40 or similar. The battery should be regularly charged, however depending on its age, condition and the length of the storage, it may fail and need to be replaced when the vehicle is put back into service. The vehicle should be placed on suitable stands with the suspension in a loaded position (it’s normal operating position) and the tyres clear of the ground. The park brake should be disengaged. Grease points, if any, should be lubricated.

The requirements for returning the vehicle to service will depend on the length of the storage. For storage up to three months, basic attention to tyre pressures, battery and reversing the storage procedure will probably suffice. However for periods longer than this you should also plan as a minimum to have a full service carried out, the brake system inspected and if necessary overhauled, the fuel system drained and refilled with fresh fuel, as well as any other necessary repairs.

Additional / related information

When batteries are disconnected, it is not unusual for later cars to lose some of their computer memory. This may require them to relearn things like engine idle speeds and transmission shift information. If this is the case, the owner’s handbook will often provide information or instructions about the relearn procedures. Also don’t forget that if your car is fitted with a security-coded radio, you will need to re enter its code before it will operate.

A problem relating to storing manual vehicles is that the clutch plate can become rusted to the flywheel over time. There are ways to overcome this however they are methods best left to a professional.

Never run an engine in a confined space due to the dangers from exhaust gases. If using a car cover, be sure to fully remove it before running the engine so that it doesn’t contact heated bonnets or other components or block cooling air flow to the engine.