Preparing Your Car for Long-Term Storage: Expert Advice from Plandome Service Center in Manhasset, NY

When it comes time to store your vehicle for an extended period, whether it’s because of a lengthy vacation, a business trip abroad, or perhaps seasonal storage for a classic car, proper preparation is key to ensuring your vehicle remains in top condition. Here at Plandome Service Center in Manhasset, NY, we understand the nuances of vehicle care and are here to guide you through preparing your car for long-term storage.

Why Proper Preparation is Crucial

Storing your car without proper preparation can lead to a myriad of problems, including battery drain, tire damage, fluid leaks, and even rodent infestation. These issues can lead to costly repairs and a headache upon your return. To avoid these pitfalls, follow our comprehensive guide to car storage.

Step-by-Step Guide to Preparing Your Car for Storage

1. Choose the Right Location

• Indoor vs. Outdoor: If possible, choose an indoor storage facility to protect your car from weather-related damage and temperature fluctuations. If indoor storage isn’t an option, consider a well-ventilated car cover.

2. Clean Your Car Thoroughly

• Exterior: Wash and wax your car to protect the paint from dust and grime accumulation.
• Interior: A thorough interior cleaning is crucial to avoid any unpleasant smells and to deter rodents. Remove all food traces and organic materials.

3. Top Up Fluids and Change the Oil

• Fresh oil and a full tank of gas can help prevent moisture from accumulating inside the fuel tank and keep the seals from drying out. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer if the storage period exceeds 30 days to prevent the fuel from deteriorating.

4. Protect Your Battery

• Disconnecting the battery can help prevent drain. For longer storage periods, consider using a battery maintainer to keep it charged without the risk of overcharging.

5. Maintain Tire Pressure

• Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from forming during storage. For very long-term storage, consider lifting the car on jack stands to relieve pressure on the tires and suspension.

6. Keep Critters Out

• Place mothballs, cotton balls dipped in peppermint oil, or commercially available rodent repellents around the vehicle to deter pests.

7. Cover Your Car

• Even indoors, a breathable car cover can keep dust and dirt at bay, protecting your vehicle’s paint.

8. Leave the Parking Brake Off

• Use tire stoppers to prevent the car from moving instead of the parking brake, which can cause the brake pads to fuse with the discs over long periods of inactivity.

Regular Check-ups

If possible, have someone start the car every few weeks to get the fluids moving and operate the air conditioning to keep the air quality fresh and the system in good working order. This can also help identify any issues that may arise during storage.

Why Trust Plandome Service Center?

At Plandome Service Center in Manhasset, NY, our automotive experts are dedicated to providing the highest level of care for your vehicle, whether it’s on the road or in storage. We offer professional advice and services to prepare your car for storage, ensuring it remains in pristine condition, ready for your return.



Storing your vehicle for an extended period doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With the right preparation, you can rest assured that your car will remain in excellent condition, ready for use when you need it again. Trust the experts at Plandome Service Center in Manhasset, NY, to help you prepare your vehicle for long-term storage. Visit us today for all your car storage preparation needs!