Storing your vehicle outdoors can be an affordable and convenient option, but it also comes with its challenges. The elements, wildlife, and even the terrain can affect the condition of your vehicle over time.
Properly preparing your vehicle for outdoor storage is essential to ensure it remains in good shape and lasts as long as possible. Whether you’re storing your car, RV, or boat, following these tips will help you protect your investment.
Why Outdoor Storage Can Be Harmful to Your Vehicle
Outdoor storage exposes your vehicle to harsh conditions that can accelerate wear and tear. Over time, the sun, rain, snow, and even debris can affect different parts of your vehicle. The primary concerns for outdoor vehicle storage include:
- UV Damage: The sun can cause fading and cracking of both the exterior and interior of your vehicle. The dashboard, seats, and even the paint job can deteriorate when exposed to UV rays for extended periods.
- Rust and Corrosion: Moisture from rain, humidity, or snow can lead to rusting and corrosion, especially in areas near the coast where saltwater is present.
- Pests and Debris: Leaves, dirt, bird droppings, and rodents can all cause significant damage. Rodents may chew on wires or upholstery, while debris can cause scratches or clog up parts of the car.
- Tire Damage: Exposure to direct sunlight can cause the rubber in tires to crack, lose elasticity, or become brittle.
Understanding these risks helps to prioritize protective measures when storing your vehicle outdoors.
Tip #1: Invest in a Quality Vehicle Cover
One of the simplest and most effective ways to protect your vehicle when storing it outdoors is by using a high-quality vehicle cover. A good cover shields your car from the sun, rain, and dirt. It also provides a layer of defense against tree sap, bird droppings, and even pests.
When choosing a cover, consider the material. A breathable, waterproof cover will protect your vehicle from rain and snow while allowing air to circulate, preventing mold and mildew buildup. UV-resistant covers also help prevent sun damage to the paint and interior.
Make sure to select a cover that fits your vehicle properly. A custom-fit cover is ideal, but universal covers work as well, provided they are securely fastened and won’t shift in the wind.
Tip #2: Use a Vehicle Jack or Tire Cradles
Long-term outdoor storage can cause flat spots on tires, especially if the vehicle sits in one spot for extended periods. To prevent this, consider using a vehicle jack or tire cradles to elevate the vehicle. This reduces the pressure on the tires, preventing them from developing flat spots or becoming deformed.
Using a jack to lift the vehicle also prevents the tires from cracking due to prolonged exposure to sunlight and heat. If you have an RV or trailer that you’re storing, tire cradles can be a great option for supporting the weight and ensuring the tires maintain their shape.
Tip #3: Regularly Clean Your Vehicle
Dirt, bird droppings, tree sap, and other contaminants can cause significant damage to your vehicle’s exterior if left unchecked. Regularly cleaning your vehicle while it’s in outdoor storage is essential to protect its paint and finish.
Washing the car helps remove dirt and debris, but you should also use a wax or ceramic coating to provide an additional layer of protection against the elements. These coatings create a barrier that helps protect the vehicle from UV damage and makes it easier to clean off dirt and water spots.
Don’t forget about the undercarriage, either. The underside of your vehicle is often exposed to road salt, dirt, and moisture, which can lead to rust. Regularly cleaning this area ensures that harmful contaminants are removed before they have a chance to cause damage.
Tip #4: Maintain the Vehicle’s Battery
One often overlooked aspect of outdoor vehicle storage is the vehicle’s battery. Cold weather can drain the battery quickly, and even in warm climates, leaving a battery unused for long periods can result in it losing its charge.
Consider using a battery tender or maintainer to keep the battery in good condition. These devices keep the battery at an optimal charge without overcharging it. If you plan to store the vehicle for an extended period, disconnecting the battery can also help prevent it from draining.
Tip #5: Protect the Tires from the Sun
The UV rays that damage the exterior of your vehicle can also affect the tires. Tires stored outdoors can become cracked, brittle, or discolored if exposed to sunlight for too long. This can result in reduced performance and safety issues down the line.
To protect your tires, consider using tire covers that shield them from UV rays. Alternatively, try parking your vehicle in a shaded area to minimize exposure to the sun. If you’re storing an RV or boat, using tire covers or parking it on gravel or grass can help avoid direct sun exposure to the tires.
Tip #6: Ensure Proper Drainage
When storing a vehicle outdoors, it’s important to consider the ground you’re parking on. Water can accumulate around your vehicle, causing rust or mold. Make sure the area is level, and ideally, elevated so that water does not pool underneath.
If you’re in an area where rainfall is frequent, you might also want to consider using a carport or creating a makeshift roof or tarp structure to protect the vehicle further. If your vehicle has a sunroof or convertible top, check the drainage systems to ensure they’re clear of debris. This helps prevent water from leaking into the interior and causing damage.
Tip #7: Perform Regular Maintenance
Even if you’re storing your vehicle outdoors for the long term, it’s important to perform regular maintenance to keep it in good working condition. Before storing your car, RV, or boat, make sure to perform basic maintenance tasks like oil changes, checking fluid levels, and inspecting belts and hoses for wear.
For long-term storage, it’s also helpful to periodically start the vehicle, let it run for a few minutes, and check for any signs of issues. This helps keep the engine and battery in good working order.
Tip #8: Invest in a Secure Storage Location
Finding a secure storage location is just as important as preparing your vehicle. If you’re searching for outdoor vehicle storage near Covington, make sure the location is safe from theft and vandalism. Look for areas that are well-lit, fenced, and monitored.
An enclosed storage unit or a well-constructed carport is a great option for added protection. Even if you can’t store your vehicle indoors, ensuring that it’s in a secure location minimizes the risk of theft or damage. For areas with extreme weather, an enclosed space is also beneficial for additional protection from rain, snow, and wind.
Conclusion
Proper outdoor vehicle storage can extend the lifespan of your vehicle and keep it in good condition, even when exposed to the elements. By investing in a quality cover, maintaining your tires and battery, performing regular maintenance, and ensuring your storage space is secure, you can protect your vehicle from the damaging effects of outdoor storage.
While outdoor storage might seem like a simple solution, taking the necessary steps to protect your vehicle can make all the difference in preserving its value and functionality for years to come. Follow these tips, and you’ll ensure that your vehicle stays safe and well-maintained throughout the year.
