EZ Vehicle Storage Tips

You never think about putting your car or RV in storage. That is, until you have to. Whether you’re storing your RV for the off-season months or need to store a car for a relative with an extended illness, you’ll want to do it the right way. Here are a few tips for vehicle storage that will help you maintain the integrity of your car or RV while it’s not being driven.

Find a Storage Location

This can seem like a redundant step to many, but there are quite a few things to consider when picking the right storage location.

Do you need an indoor unit? Is vehicle storage outside an option you’re okay with? Will the outside storage have a cover? What about protection; is the storage unit facility gated or have other means of security to keep your vehicle safe? These are questions you need to ask yourself and any storage facility you’re looking at.

Don’t forget to fill your tank up with gas before heading over to storage!

Perform Maintenance

Before putting your vehicle in storage, it’s best to perform some basic maintenance so your investment will be protected.

• Fill your tank up before dropping your vehicle off. A full tank of gas means there’s less of a chance moisture can form in the tank or lines.
• Add a stabilizer to your tank if you’re planning to store your vehicle for at least 2 months. The stabilizer preserves the gasoline and will prevent damage to the fuel system.
• Remove the battery. Most batteries don’t do well if stored during winter, and all batteries discharge over time. Removing the battery will prevent acid from escaping and causing damage to your RV or car.

For RV’s specifically, make sure to empty the water tanks and use antifreeze to avoid any broken pipes. Also, close all blinds and shades inside to steer clear of sun damage to your furniture.

Make sure to clean your vehicle all over. 

Protect from Elements and Pests

Putting a dirty vehicle into storage can be risky as it can damage the finish or attract pests. Here’s how to avoid those things.

• Thoroughly wash your vehicle. Get every nook and cranny, and don’t forget under the hood either.
• Vacuum, dust, and get all food or wraps from out of your vehicle. This will not only prevent foul odors from forming but also deter pests from moving into your RV or car while you’re away.
• Check and make sure everything is secure and closed. Check vents, seals, and seams as these are common places where critters can find a way inside.
• Once at the vehicle storage facility, give one final wipe down to the exterior. This will eliminate any dust, debris, or salt that can potentially cause harm to the exterior in storage.

Long-Term Storage? Protect Your Vehicle

If your car or RV is going to be sitting in storage long-term, consider these extra steps so your vehicle stays in perfect shape.

• Use a cover to further protect your vehicle’s exterior, especially if it’s in an outdoor spot.
• Rest the vehicle on blocks or jack stands. This prevents the tires from flatspotting, which occurs when a tire flattens over time due to contact with the ground. This can also remove strain off suspension components.
• If possible, start and drive your vehicle once every few months. Driving your vehicle a short distance will keep the mechanical and hydraulic parts working as they should.

EZ Access Storage will keep your vehicle safe while you’re away.

Making Vehicle Storage EZ at EZ Access Storage

We make storing your car or RV in the East Wenatchee area simple and safe! We have covered outdoor parking for your vehicles, which protects from the sun in the summer and snow and rain in the spring, fall, and winter. We also have uncovered, open vehicle storage parking as well. In other words, EZ Access Storage has something for every storage need.