Preparing Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage

East Metro RV & Boat Storage
June 6th, 2025

How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Long-Term Storage

Whether you're heading out of town for an extended period or simply won’t be driving your car for a while, preparing your vehicle for long-term storage is essential. Without the right steps, long-term storage can lead to flat tires, dead batteries, fuel system problems, and costly damage. In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about preparing your vehicle for long-term storage—so your car stays protected and ready to drive when you return.

Why Proper Car Storage Is Important

Storing your vehicle isn’t just about parking it and walking away. Over time, inactivity and weather exposure can wear down important components and ruin your car’s appearance. Dead batteries, rust, pests, degraded fuel, and tire damage are just a few of the issues that can creep in without proper precautions. Whether you're storing your vehicle outdoors on gravel or asphalt—as offered at Covington Vehicle Storage—or at home, a few steps go a long way toward protecting your investment.

Clean and Detail the Vehicle

Before placing your vehicle in storage, wash and wax it thoroughly. Dirt, dust, bird droppings, and road salts can corrode your paint and undercarriage over time. Don't forget to clean the wheels and underbody, where grime often hides. Vacuum and wipe down the interior as well. Leftover food crumbs or moisture can attract pests or promote mold growth inside the cabin. A freshly cleaned car will be far less susceptible to long-term damage—and it’ll smell a lot better when you return.

Protect the Engine and Fuel System

Your engine is the heart of your vehicle, and it needs attention before going dormant. First, top off your gas tank. This helps prevent condensation and keeps the fuel system from rusting. Next, add a fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel from breaking down over time. Let the engine run for a few minutes to allow the stabilizer to circulate throughout the system. If you're storing the vehicle for several months or more, consider changing the oil and replacing the filter. Dirty oil can contain contaminants that may cause damage when left to sit.

Battery Storage Options

Battery maintenance is a common concern during long-term storage. Left unused, a battery will slowly drain and could be dead when you return. If possible, disconnect the battery entirely to prevent drain from small electronic systems. For added protection, store it indoors in a temperature-controlled environment, especially during extreme heat or cold. Alternatively, you can use a trickle charger or battery maintainer to keep it alive while the car sits.

Tire Inflation and Jacking

Tires tend to lose pressure over time, and vehicles that sit for long periods risk developing flat spots. To avoid this, inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended PSI before storage. You can even slightly overinflate (by 2–3 PSI) to account for gradual pressure loss. For storage lasting longer than 3 months, consider jacking the car up on stands to take pressure off the tires entirely. If you’re storing on gravel, place boards or mats under the tires to reduce moisture exposure.

Choosing the Right Outdoor Storage Setup

If you’re storing your vehicle outdoors, the right setup makes a big difference in protecting it from the elements. While we don’t offer covered or indoor vehicle storage at our Covington facility, we do provide secure outdoor parking on both gravel and asphalt surfaces—ideal for long-term storage with the right precautions. To keep your vehicle protected:

Use a high-quality, weatherproof car cover. Choose a breathable cover that prevents moisture buildup but still shields your vehicle from rain, sun, dust, and debris.
Avoid cheap plastic tarps, which can trap condensation and lead to paint damage or rust.
Park on asphalt if you’re storing for a longer period, as it offers a firmer and more even surface than gravel, helping reduce moisture retention under the vehicle.

Our gated facility provides peace of mind with 24/7 access and perimeter fencing—so even with outdoor storage, your vehicle stays secure and protected.

🚗 Looking for safe outdoor vehicle storage in Covington? Reserve your spot at 350 Old Oxford Rd today.

Post-Storage Tips for a Smooth Restart

When it’s time to bring your vehicle back to life, follow these steps before hitting the road:

Reconnect the battery (if removed) and check its charge.
Inspect your tires and bring them back to proper PSI.
Look for signs of rodent nests or chewed wires under the hood.
Check all fluid levels—oil, coolant, brake, transmission, and windshield washer.
Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes while monitoring for any unusual sounds or smells.

A careful reawakening ensures your vehicle transitions smoothly from storage back into daily use.

Final Thoughts

Long-term car storage doesn’t have to be a headache. With a few simple precautions—like using a fuel stabilizer, monitoring tire pressure, practicing battery maintenance, and investing in a quality car cover—you can protect your vehicle and extend its lifespan. And when you're ready to store, our facility at Covington Vehicle Storage offers secure outdoor spaces on both gravel and asphalt, making it easy to find a solution that fits your needs.

✅ Reserve your outdoor vehicle storage spot today at 350 Old Oxford Rd in Covington, GA