Vehicle storage in self-storage units has become one of the most popular solutions for people who want to store their cars, motorcycles, or any other vehicle for longer durations. Traditionally, the options were primarily between garages or outdoor lots, further subjecting these vehicles to other elements or actual physical damage. As self storage facilities expanded their services, many started to provide specialized units to accommodate vehicles in a secure, climate-controlled environment. Whether it be storing a car while on a long trip, trying to protect a classic vehicle, or just keeping a little-used vehicle, you should know about the length of time limits you may store it. In this blog, we discuss the major factors that affect vehicle storage duration, preparation tips for your vehicle, and how to maintain it on storage so that your car will remain in excellent condition, no matter how long it is stored.
Understanding Storage Duration
The length of time you can store a vehicle in a self storage unit depends on several factors, including the facility’s policies and the care you give your vehicle. Most self storage units allow for both short- and long-term vehicle storage, making it possible to store your vehicle for weeks, months, or even years if properly maintained. For those looking for reliable solutions, Delaware’s secure and affordable storage options guaranteed by NSA Storage offer flexibility and security, ensuring your vehicle remains safe during extended stays. However, long-term storage requires attention to vehicle maintenance, such as battery care and regular inspections, to keep it in good shape.
Note: Did you know the average length of time a vehicle stays in storage is about six months, according to industry statistics? Proper care can help ensure your vehicle is road-ready, no matter how long it’s stored.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Storage
Car storage would involve consideration as to whether to opt for short-term or long-term storage. Each of these options has its advantage, depending on the needs and frequency of access to the vehicle; following are the main differences:
- Short-term storage is ideal for a few weeks to a few months.
- Long-term storage is best for vehicles not used for several months or years.
- Short-term storage requires minimal preparation, such as a quick clean and fuel stabilizer.
- Long-term storage may require disconnecting the battery, inflating tires, and covering the vehicle.
- Climate control is recommended for long-term storage to prevent weather-related damage.
Experts say that long-term needs more attention in terms of maintenance, while short-term storage offers convenience with less preparation required. In choosing the right storage type, your car is sure to be in good condition based on the whole length of stay of the vehicle.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Storage
Properly preparing your car for storage is essential to ensure that your car remains healthy even after long or short-term storage. First, clean the exterior and interior to remove dirt and grime which in a while may cause damage. It is quite important that you top off fluids like oil, brake fluid, and coolant to avoid any internal problems. For long-term storage, it is a good idea to disconnect the battery to avoid drainage and inflate tires at the recommended pressure to avoid flat spots.
Experts emphasize that “taking a few simple steps before storage can save you from costly repairs when you’re ready to use the vehicle again.”
Research:
One such study in the Journal of Transportation Research learned that longer-term stored vehicles that were not properly prepared showed higher rates of battery failure and tire damage. Preparation of your vehicle before storage reduces these risks and ensures it will be ready to drive when you need it again. Follow these steps to protect your investment and prolong the life of your vehicle.
Climate-Controlled Units for Vehicles
Climate-controlled storage is added protection, especially on longer storages. These facilities will keep the temperature and humidity even to prevent any weather-based damages such as rust or mold.
Three key benefits using a climate-controlled storage for vehicles are:
- Protects against extreme temperature changes that can affect the engine and tires.
- Prevents moisture buildup, which can lead to rust and interior damage.
- Safeguards sensitive components like the battery and electronics from harsh conditions.
Deluxe and classic vehicles require the added care of climate-controlled units. Storing your car in a climate-controlled environment minimizes the potential for damage, while keeping it in excellent condition for extended months or years into the future. It is ideal for protection during longer periods of times and offers peace of mind.
Maintaining Your Vehicle During Storage
While in storage, periodic service is important to keep your vehicle in good condition. The way to tackle this could be periodic visits to the storage unit to turn on the engine and let it run for some time to get everything working correctly. It would not let the battery and engine respectively drain out, and the engine would remain lubricated. In this method, you have to visit quite frequently, and it’s annoying as it requires greater attention for long-term storage.
Others prefer to totally disconnect the battery, which is more applicable to longer-term storage. This will prevent the battery from draining but may later involve additional measures in reconnecting and restarting it. While both methods have their benefits, choosing the right one largely depends on how long you will be storing your vehicle and how frequent you can attend to it.
For more specific tips on just how you should care for your vehicle in storage, check out the automotive section for advice on how to keep your car purring.
Wrap-Up: Storing Vehicles Safely
Whether you need to store on a short-term or long-term basis, self-storage for your vehicle can be a convenient and safe solution. Store it in the right type of storage unit-standard or climate-controlled-to prevent damages of intense weather, moisture, or long periods of inactivity. Key ways one can ensure the proper operation of his or her car during prolonged storage include surveys of fluid, cleaning, and battery care. Whether your car is going to sit idle for several weeks or a few months, by going through this process you can be assured it will be ready when you need it.
