Tips for Storing Your Car Safely While You're Away on Vacation
Are you going on a much-needed vacation? While planning for your trip, don't overlook the safety and security of one of your most valuable possessions: your car. Whether you're going away for a few days or several weeks, leaving your car unattended can make it vulnerable to theft, damage, or other unforeseen circumstances.
To ensure that your vehicle is safe while you're away enjoying yourself, we've compiled a list of useful tips for storing your car properly during vacation. If you follow our guidelines, you can have peace of mind knowing that your car is well-protected and will be ready for use when you return.
Select the Right Vehicle Storage
While some people may opt for storing their cars in their garage or driveway, this may not be the most suitable choice for everyone. If you want to ensure maximum security and protection for your vehicle while on vacation, it might be worth considering a long-term car storage facility like Vehicle Storage Contain It that offers advanced security measures such as 24/7 surveillance, climate-controlled units, and insurance coverage options. That aside, these facilities have ample space to accommodate all types of vehicles, including boats and RVs.
Choose a Secure Location
Secure location doesn't just refer to a storage facility, but also to where you park your car before dropping it off. You should pay attention to the geographical location, avoiding areas prone to flooding or other natural disasters that could potentially harm your vehicle.
Even take the neighborhood's safety and its history of crime rates into account. Opt for an area with good lighting and visible security cameras, or park your car in a friend or family member's garage if possible.
Maintain Your Battery
Especially if you drive an EV or hybrid vehicle, it's essential to ensure that your car battery stays charged while you're away. It's highly recommended to leave your car plugged in at the storage facility or ask someone to start and drive your car periodically to keep the battery from dying.
If you won't have access to a power source, consider disconnecting the negative terminal of your battery to prevent any drainage. The last thing you need to worry about is coming back to a dead battery that needs to be replaced.
Cover Your Car
A high-quality car cover is a must-have for any car owner looking to protect their vehicle from the elements. Dust and debris can gather quickly on your car's exterior, leaving it looking dull and dirty without proper protection. But know that it's not all about appearance: heavy rain, snow, and other harsh weather conditions can also cause damage to your car's exterior.
The best solution is to invest in a breathable car cover that's waterproof and will keep your vehicle safe from moisture, UV rays, and other contaminants. If you're storing your car outdoors, make sure to secure the cover properly to prevent it from being blown away by strong winds.
Check Fluids and Fill the Gas Tank
Before leaving your car for an extended period, check and top off all its fluids to ensure it remains in good condition, including oil, coolant, brake, and transmission fluids. Keeping these at optimal levels can prevent any internal damage to your car's engine and other critical components.
Furthermore, filling up the gas tank is highly recommended as it prevents moisture from accumulating inside the fuel tank and keeps the seals from drying out. A full tank also means you won't have to worry about finding a gas station immediately upon your return. Taking these preparatory steps maintains your vehicle's health, ensuring it starts up smoothly when you're back from your vacation.
Inflate Tires to the Correct Pressure
If the tires are under-inflated, they'll develop flat spots from sitting in one spot for too long, causing a bumpy ride and potentially damaging them. On the other hand, overinflated tires can also lead to cracking or bursting.
Before storing your vehicle, check the owner's manual or the tire label for the correct pressure and inflate all four tires accordingly. You can also consider using jack stands to take some of the weight off your tires while in storage.
Block Critters
Block critters, tiny little creatures that scurry around without any care can cause a big nuisance if they get into your car's engine or other parts. You certainly don't want to open the hood and find one has gone to work in there and left you with a hefty mechanic bill. For this reason, ensure your car is critter-proof by blocking any entry points with steel wool or wire mesh.
Another way to keep pests out is by placing a few mothballs inside and around the car. While not entirely foolproof, they can act as a deterrent for rodents and other small animals — just remember to remove them before starting your car upon your return.
Taking the necessary steps to store your car safely while you’re away on vacation can save you from a lot of trouble and unexpected expenses. By following these tips, you can relax and enjoy your trip without worrying about the well-being of your vehicle. Remember to plan ahead and take precautions before leaving, so you can have a stress-free vacation knowing that your car is in good hands.
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