Whether you're putting a vehicle away for the season or for the foreseeable future, preparation is essential to ensure the car is protected and remains in good shape until it's needed again. Long-term vehicle storage offers a safe location to keep your car securely out of the elements and away from vandals and thieves, but even a car going into a storage facility needs some readying. Below are a few tips to help in this process.

How to Get Your Car Ready for Storage

1. Clean the Car Thoroughly

Before going into storage, wash and dry the car’s exterior. Make sure to remove caked-on dirt and stains so they don't set in further and cause deterioration or rust.

Also, remove all trash, especially food items and packaging, which can invite pests while the vehicle is stored. Finish the process by vacuuming the seats, floor, and dash.

2. Perform Routine Vehicle Maintenance

Check your car's fluids and replace and refill them as necessary. This will minimize the buildup of contaminants in the fluids while the vehicle is in storage, and it will prevent low levels from drying out and disabling the car.

Fill the oil, coolant, transmission fluid, and windshield wiper fluid. Top off the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to keep the gas fresh. Also, see that your tires are properly inflated and that the battery is disconnected.

3. Invest in a Car Cover

A car cover adds an extra layer of protection. Even though the vehicle will be in an enclosed environment while in storage, a car cover provides an additional barrier against possible damage, like water leaks, temperature changes, and, if you're moving other items in and out of the unit, inadvertent scratches, scrapes, or dings. Look for a high quality, breathable, and waterproof cover that fits over the entire exposed surface of the vehicle.

When you need dependable storage for your vehicle, trust Meridian Mini Storage. Located in Kalispell, MT, they offer many self-storage solutions, from small units for excess household goods to large spaces that can accommodate SUVs. They provide a safe location for your belongings, with fences, locks, security cameras, and coded entry systems in place. Call (406) 257-5566 or visit them online to reserve a space.