Storing a car properly is essential to protect your transmission and keep it in good condition over time. If you don’t take the right steps, you risk causing damage that could lead to costly repairs. From choosing the right gear to disconnecting the battery, each detail matters. To guarantee your vehicle stays in top shape during storage, it’s important to follow a few key practices that can make all the difference—so, let’s explore what you need to do.
Prepare the Vehicle Before Storage
Before storing your car, proper preparation is essential to prevent damage. Start by checking fluid levels—oil, coolant, and brake fluid—and top them off if needed. This helps prevent corrosion and guarantees the vehicle remains in good condition. Performing a comprehensive inspection can identify any existing issues that might worsen during storage. Next, clean the exterior thoroughly to remove dirt, grime, and road salts that could cause rust over time. A clean exterior also makes it easier to spot any potential issues later. Taking these steps ensures your car remains protected during storage, reducing the risk of damage to the transmission and other critical components. Proper preparation sets the foundation for a smooth, damage-free storage period.
Choose the Correct Storage Location
Selecting the right storage location is vital to protecting your car’s transmission and overall condition. Choose a garage with good security to prevent theft or vandalism. A secure garage also reduces exposure to pests and environmental hazards.
Climate control is essential; aim for a space with stable temperature and humidity levels to prevent rust and corrosion. Avoid outdoor storage, which exposes your car to weather extremes and moisture that can damage the transmission.
Use a Suitable Cover for Protection
Using a suitable cover is a straightforward way to shield your vehicle from dust, dirt, and potential scratches during storage. When selecting a car cover, prioritize breathable, weather-resistant materials that match your environment. Consider a custom-fit cover for better protection and minimal movement.
Cover installation tips include ensuring the vehicle is clean before covering, securing the cover tightly to prevent it from blowing off, and avoiding sharp edges that could tear the fabric. A proper cover not only keeps your car clean but also safeguards its paint and exterior finish, helping maintain its condition during long-term storage without damaging the transmission.
Keep the Transmission in the Proper Gear
Keeping the transmission in the proper gear is essential to prevent internal components from developing flat spots or sticking during long-term storage. By engaging the transmission in gear, you help maintain proper transmission lubrication, reducing the risk of fluid settling or corrosion.
Confirm the gear is firmly engaged to avoid unnecessary movement or stress on internal parts. This simple step helps stabilize the transmission, keeping components properly aligned.
Disconnect the Battery to Prevent Drainage
To prevent your car’s battery from draining during long-term storage, it’s vital to disconnect it completely. This step is essential for proper battery maintenance and protecting your vehicle’s electrical system.
When the battery remains connected, small electrical loads can slowly drain it, leaving you with a dead battery later. By disconnecting the negative terminal first, you minimize risk and preserve power.
This simple action ensures your battery stays healthy, avoiding costly replacements. Remember, a fully disconnected battery reduces electrical system strain, prolonging its lifespan and guaranteeing your car will start easily when you’re ready to drive again.
Regularly Start and Run the Car
Starting and running your car periodically helps keep the engine and fuel system in good condition during storage. It prevents the engine oil from settling and ensures proper lubrication, reducing the risk of corrosion.
When you start the car, let it run long enough to warm up, which helps circulate fluids and maintain appropriate fluid levels. This process also keeps the transmission fluid and other essential liquids in excellent condition.
Be sure to check fluid levels regularly and top off if needed. Running the engine briefly every few weeks helps prevent seals from drying out and keeps all systems functioning smoothly, protecting your car during long-term storage.
Maintain Suitable Tire Pressure and Support
Maintaining the correct tire pressure is essential because under- or over-inflated tires can develop flat spots or lead to uneven wear during storage. Check your tire pressure regularly and inflate them to the manufacturer’s recommended levels.
To guarantee even tire wear, perform a tire rotation before storing your car. Proper wheel alignment helps distribute weight evenly and prevents unnecessary stress on tires.
Supporting your vehicle with jack stands or tire cradles can prevent flat spots caused by prolonged contact with the ground. By keeping tires properly supported and aligned, you protect your car’s tires and make it easier to resume driving when you’re ready to use the vehicle again.
Conduct Periodic Inspections and Maintenance
Regular inspections and maintenance are crucial to guarantee your vehicle remains in good condition during storage. Check fluid levels, including transmission fluid, to confirm they stay at proper levels and prevent issues once you start driving again.
Regularly inspect for signs of corrosion, especially on metal parts and electrical connections, to prevent long-term damage. Keep the storage environment clean and dry, and consider applying corrosion prevention sprays if necessary.
Conclusion
Storing your car properly helps protect the transmission and keeps it in good shape. Make certain you park on a level surface, in the right gear, and disconnect the battery. Keep the engine running occasionally, support the tires, and check on the vehicle regularly. Following these simple steps ensures your car stays in great condition and ready to drive when you need it again. Proper storage is key to avoiding costly repairs later. For expert assistance, schedule your free TransScan or book an appointment today by calling us at (919) 471-2506 or visit us online at Durham Transmission.