What is car storage, and why might I need it?

It depends on the car, but in general, it is safe to store a car for up to six months without driving it. Make sure you have taken all necessary precautions before storing your vehicle, such as changing the oil, topping off fluids and fuel levels, adding a stabilizer to the gas tank, and choosing an appropriate storage facility.

Reserving a car storage space is straightforward and can often be done online, over the phone, or in person. Start by contacting our facility to discuss your needs, including the type of storage, duration, and any specific requirements your vehicle might have. We’ll provide you with a quote and explain the terms of service, including any necessary documentation and deposit requirements. Once you’ve decided to proceed, you’ll need to complete a storage agreement and provide proof of insurance, as well as any other required documents. A deposit may be required to secure your space, especially during peak times or for specialized storage options. We aim to make the reservation process as smooth and transparent as possible, ensuring your storage needs are met with the right solution.

Yes, you can store a vehicle that’s not running, but it’s essential to notify us of its condition beforehand. Keeping a non-operational vehicle may require special arrangements for transportation to and from the storage facility, as it cannot be driven in. Additionally, we may recommend or require specific preparations to safeguard the vehicle during storage, such as draining fluids to prevent leaks or corrosion.  We aim to provide flexible storage solutions and will work with you to find the best option for your non-operational vehicle. Understanding your car’s specific needs and conditions allows us to ensure its safety and preservation while in storage.

Preparing your car for long-term storage involves several essential steps to ensure it remains in good condition. Start by thoroughly cleaning your car inside and out to remove any dirt or residues that could cause damage over time. Fill up the gas tank to prevent moisture from accumulating inside the fuel tank, and add a fuel stabilizer to keep the fuel fresh. Change the oil and filter to protect your engine from corrosion. Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots. Finally, disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to keep it charged, and cover your car with a breathable fabric to protect the paint.

Determining whether to start your car during its storage period primarily hinges on the duration of storage and how you’ve prepared the vehicle. For short-term storage, defined as a few weeks up to three months, periodically starting the car can be advantageous. Doing so maintains the battery’s charge, ensures continuous lubrication of engine components, and prevents fuel stagnation. Running the car until it reaches its operating temperature is recommended to avoid moisture build-up and ensure complete combustion. However, the necessity to start the car diminishes for long-term storage exceeding three months if you’ve made adequate preparations. Utilizing a battery maintainer negates the need for starting the engine, and adding a fuel stabilizer before storage helps keep the fuel system in good condition without the need to circulate fuel by running the engine. Adjusting tire pressure and changing the oil and filter are also critical steps in preparing for extended storage, reducing the need to start the vehicle periodically. Consulting the vehicle’s manual or a professional mechanic can provide vehicle-specific guidance, especially for modern cars with complex electronic systems, ensuring the vehicle remains in prime condition throughout its storage period without needing regular starts.

You should take your car out of winter storage when the weather gets warmer. There is no exact timeframe, but in Edmonton, Alberta, we see cars starting to be removed from storage when the snow melted around May. Wheelers RV & Boat Storage offers safe and secure storage for your car all winter long. Contact us today to find out more about our winter storage options!