Have you ever thought about storing your classic car or sports car when it’s not in use? Storing your car away is a great way to protect it from the elements and keep it safe from vandals. Whether you’re simply headed out of town for an extended vacation, or you don’t plan on using your vehicle for a few months, it’s important to take necessary precautions to keep it in good shape. In addition to investing in comprehensive auto insurance, taking the time for a bit of maintenance and finding the right storage facility is key. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of proper long-term car storage in the greater Phoenix area.
How to Prepare Your Car for Long-Term Storage
1. Where to Store Your Car
There are a number of different storage options available to Arizona drivers. While you don’t have to worry about ice and snow wreaking havoc on your car’s exterior, sun damage is no joke. This means that at the very least, your car should be covered with a tarp or custom cover. However, it’s much better to keep it covered and then store it away in a garage, storage facility or another safe space offered up by a friend or family member.
2. Clean It Up
Cleaning your car before putting it in storage may seem counterproductive, but in reality, it will help prevent damage from water droplets, bird droppings, dirt, and other debris. So give your car a bit of extra TLC by washing it thoroughly, drying it properly and applying car wax. And don’t forget about the interior! Vacuum up and dirt or crumbs to prevent insects and rodents from making a home.
3. Prep the Engine
If your car is stored for 30 days or more, you need to protect the engine from damage by topping off all the fluids, changing your oil and filters. It’s also a good idea to fill up the gas tank and add a bit of stabilizer to prevent separation.
4. Battery and Tires
If you’re going to leave your car in storage for more than a few months, it may be a good idea to remove the battery. Batteries can quickly lose their charge and become corroded if they aren’t in use for a while. Additionally, your tires need to be inflated to the recommended pressure levels to prevent any flat spots from developing over time.
What About Insurance?
Many people think that removing their vehicle from their auto insurance policy is a good idea if they won’t be driving it for an extended period. And while this can save you a bit of money up-front, you could end up paying out of pocket if something happens unexpectedly.
One alternative that can be helpful is to ask about the possibility of investing in storage coverage. This type of auto insurance coverage is designed to protect against theft and vandalism, weather damage, hail, and lightning. However, it does not include coverage for liability or collisions.
Contact Smart Move Insurance Today
Do you have a car that needs to be stored away for an extended period of time? Make sure you have the right level of protection to keep it safe with Smart Move Insurance. Call (480) 397-9525 or contact Jessie today for more information and be sure to request a free quote.
