Prepare your car for long-term storage

When your vehicle(s) will be sitting unused for weeks or months, a little preparation can make a significant difference. Whether you are heading south for the winter, traveling for an extended period or simply leaving a second vehicle at home, long-term parking requires more than pulling into the garage and closing the door. Taking the right steps before you leave can help protect your vehicle and make it easier to get back on the road when you return.

Car Watch Tips for Long-Term Storage While You're Away

Car Watch Tip 1: Start With a Clean, Well-Maintained Vehicle

Before putting your car away for an extended stay, clean it inside and out. Dirt, moisture and road residue can contribute to deterioration over time. Cleaning the interior also helps eliminate food particles and other materials that could attract pests.

Take care of routine maintenance before departure rather than waiting until you return. Check the vehicle's fluids and tire pressure and address any overdue maintenance. Your owner's manual should be the final authority for storage recommendations since requirements can vary by vehicle, particularly for electric and hybrid vehicles.

“The best time to identify a potential vehicle problem is before you leave, not after you return. A little preparation can make long-term storage much less stressful,” says Dan Lender, Owner of Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge.

Car Watch Tip 2: Protect the Battery and Tires

The battery is one of the most common concerns when a vehicle sits for an extended period. Batteries can gradually lose their charge even when the vehicle is not being driven. AAA recommends considering a maintenance charger for vehicles that will be parked for extended periods.

Tires also deserve attention. Check their pressure before departure and follow the manufacturer's recommendations. Tires can lose pressure while a vehicle is sitting and extended storage can contribute to flat spots or tire aging.

Ensure the garage is secure from rodents and other pests. Animals can damage wiring, hoses and other components while seeking shelter. A quality car cover may also provide additional protection, depending on your vehicle and garage conditions.

“A garage protects a car from weather, but it doesn't eliminate the need for attention. Things can still change while a vehicle is sitting there,” Dan says.

Car Watch Tip 3: Don't Just Park It and Forget It

One of the biggest mistakes owners can make is assuming their car will be fine simply because it is indoors. Battery charge can change, tire pressure can drop and a small leak or other problem can develop without anyone noticing.

Related post: What is a Car Watch Service?

Don’t Have the Time to Prepare Your Car for Long-Term Stays? Let Golden Rule Home Watch Help.

Car Watch from Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge provides an important layer of protection. Our service is designed for vehicles left behind while homeowners are away. Depending on the client's needs, services can include battery tender management, fluid and tire checks, vehicle ignition, maintenance arrangements and detailing scheduling.

“Our goal with Car Watch is to give owners confidence that their vehicle isn't simply sitting unattended while they're away. We can check on it, schedule regular maintenance and inspections, and help address issues if and when they arise,” Dan says.

For Northern Virginia homeowners who leave for an extended period, Car Watch can complement our Home Watch services. Instead of relying on a neighbor to occasionally glance into your garage, our professional service is designed to monitor your property and vehicle(s) according to an established plan.

“Every homeowner has different needs when they're away. We customize the service so we're watching the things that matter most to that particular client.”

Golden Rule Home Watch & Concierge is your choice for Home Watch in Northern Virginia because we combine professional property checks with detailed reporting and personalized service. Golden Rule is licensed, bonded, insured and background-checked and is an accredited member of the National Home Watch Association.

For Northern Virginia homeowners who spend extended time away from their primary residence, Golden Rule provides more than a periodic check of an empty house. Our Home Watch and Car Watch services can be customized around your property, vehicles and preferences. When your home and vehicle are important investments, having someone dependable looking after them can provide valuable peace of mind.