Owning vehicles confined to prolonged storage exposes unique hazards, jeopardizing function and roadworthiness later on. Combat seasonal non-usage dilemmas through smart parking arrangements, electrical support tools, and robust protective equipment.
Parking and Security Gear
Tire stop blockades
Unchecked movement causes expensive body damage and safety issues while vehicles sit idle long term. Curb accidental jolts by parking with tire stop blocks wedging tightly against wheel treads. These sturdy plastic or rubber barriers prevent drifting from original positions during storage. Maximize traction and avoid surface harm through versions with flat underside pads rather than spikes.
Water-resistant car covers
Dust accumulation clouds shiny paint finishes left unprotected outdoors, becoming more ingrained over time. Further damage arises from rain, snow, falling tree debris, and bird droppings interacting with exterior surfaces. Combat this through a custom-fit breathable car cover tailored to your vehicle’s dimensions. Quality materials resist water permeation while allowing interior humidity to vent during temperature swings.
Hitch locks and wheel clamps
Unfortunately, theft temptations persist even for unattended stored vehicles. Fortify standard door locks against forced entry by adding hitch receiver locks on trucks, trailers, and certain SUV models. Wheel clamps comprising a hardened steel saddle secured over a tire work for maximum anti-theft protection. Use these deterrent devices even inside locked garages for peace of mind.
Electrical System Care
Multiple battery maintainer
The good folk over at Clore Automotive tell us that a multiple car battery maintainer provides essential support during periods of inactivity, especially in cold weather. These smart charging devices safely maintain optimal charge levels across different battery banks, preventing the frustration of dead batteries when you are ready to roll. Whether you own motorcycles, boats, RVs, or classic cars, specialized maintainers are available to match your specific needs.
Fuel stabilizing additives
Modern gasoline formulations turn volatile when left stagnant inside tanks and fuel lines over months. Combat this with fuel stabilizer additives suspended within the tank to preserve fuel integrity 30-90+ days before serious drivability and component damage occurs. Measure by treating full tanks using a ratio like 25:1 gallon to fluid ounces when adding stabilizers.
Corrosion prevention spray
Damp storage conditions speed up corrosion on electrical components and exposed metal surfaces over time. Fight back applying a protective lubricant film or corrosion block spray before parking. Use these waxy coatings safely on battery posts, terminals, wiring looms, connectors, exhaust pipe outlets, and chrome trim prone to rust formation. Reapply every 1-2 months for long-term storage according to label directions.
Maintenance Essentials
Air pressure monitoring
Tires slowly deflate when sitting stationary for extended durations. Drooping pressures then contribute to sidewall cracks, tread separation issues, and uneven wear upon reactivation. Purchase a high accuracy digital tire pressure gauge for periodic checks during storage and top up low units to recommended inflation levels printed on driver door placards. Perform these inflation inspections at least monthly to maintain proper shape and roadworthiness.
Battery disconnect switch installation
Parasitic current drain persists even when no physical battery drainage exists while parked. Sever this tiny power draw completely through installing an aftermarket master disconnect switch inline along negative battery cables. Simply flip the switch to “off” setting to isolate electricity flow during storage. This enhances preservation for sensitive vehicle electronics too vulnerable to odd voltage fluctuations when systems slumber.
Conclusion
Properly caring for unused vehicles saves huge hassles attempting to return them to road duty later. Park rationally with locking mechanisms and barriers deterring unintended movement or theft. Maintain electrical function through chargers and fuel stabilizers. And monitor key components like tire pressures during downtime as added protection from deterioration over the weeks and months.
