4 Tips to Secure Your Old Vehicle in Storage When Buying a New One
Every car has a story. Whether it was a gift, passed down from a family member, or something you worked hard to earn, your vehicle has likely been with you through countless milestones and everyday moments. More than just a mode of transportation, it’s part of your journey.
If you’re upgrading to a new vehicle but still want to keep your current one, there’s no need to sell or part with it. Vehicle storage offers a practical solution, allowing you to preserve your car in a secure, protected environment while it’s not in use.
Here are seven helpful tips for preparing your vehicle for storage when you’re ready to make room for something new—without saying goodbye to the old.
Photo by Swansway Motor Group on Unsplash
1. First Thing’s First: Cleaning & Maintenance
Before you decide to park your car in an RV storage, give it a thorough cleaning. This should not be a task you try to get through quickly. Take your time to clean. Vacuum every corner—the floor, car seats, underneath the mats. Make sure the inside is free from dust, dirt, and food crumbs to the best of your ability. Throw away any trash you find.
On the outside of the vehicle, clean with water and soap, including the wheels and the side mirrors. Make sure everything is dry completely before you cover it for storage.
2. Protect the Battery
If you’re keeping your car in self storage for a longer term, there are a few steps to take to preserve its functionality.
A battery left idle for weeks or months can lose its charge entirely, making it difficult—or impossible—to start the engine when you’re ready to use the vehicle again. To prevent this, consider investing in a trickle charger or battery maintainer. These devices deliver a low, steady charge that keeps the battery at an optimal level without overcharging, helping to preserve its lifespan and ensure your car remains ready to drive.
3. Assess Fuel & Fluid Levels
Before placing your vehicle in storage, it’s important to check for any signs of leaks and address them promptly. Even minor fluid issues can worsen over time and lead to costly repairs.
For long-term storage, one of the most overlooked steps is treating your fuel system. Gasoline can begin to degrade in as little as 30 days, leading to varnish buildup and potential engine issues. To help prevent this, fill the gas tank to reduce air and moisture inside the tank, and add a fuel stabilizer. Though commonly used for boats and lawn equipment, fuel stabilizers are equally effective for vehicles in storage—they help maintain fuel quality and protect the engine and fuel system from corrosion or blockages.
In addition to the fuel system, check and top off other essential fluids, including engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid.
4. Schedule Routine Visits to Check on Your Vehicle
Just because you’ve purchased a new car doesn’t mean your stored vehicle should be forgotten. Storing a vehicle comes with the responsibility of occasional check-ups to ensure it stays in good condition. Schedule periodic visits to inspect key areas such as tire pressure, battery status, and overall condition. These quick check-ins help catch any potential issues early—like flat spots, low battery charge, or signs of moisture—so you can address them before they become larger problems.
Explore Vehicle Storage Options Near You in Huntersville, NC
Give yourself the extra space to settle in with your new vehicle, and let us take care of the car that has gotten you this far. Blythe Landing Self Storage’s secure parking area and dedicated staff keep your vehicle safe and ready for the next adventure.
Browse our available vehicle storage options online, and reserve a space that fits your needs. Blythe Landing Self Storage is your premier choice for all things self storage in Huntersville, NC. See how we can support you!
