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--- storing_your_car [2025.07.29 07:57] – created Steve Isenberg
+++ storing_your_car [2025.07.29 08:05] (current) – Steve Isenberg
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-I will be away for a year. what should i do to my car before leaving and when I return? Should the car be driven in my absence?
+=====Preserving your car when you’re going to be away for a year=====
-When you're away for a year, preparing your car properly is crucial to prevent damage and ensure it's ready to go when you return. Here's a comprehensive guide:
+Q: I will be away for a year. what should I do to my car before leaving and when I return? Should the car be driven in my absence?
-Before You Leave Your Car for a Year:
-* Find a Suitable Storage Location:
+A: When you're away for a year, preparing your car properly is crucial to prevent damage and ensure it's ready to go when you return. Here's a comprehensive guide:
+====Before You Leave Your Car for a Year====
+  * Find a Suitable Storage Location:
     * Indoor is Best: A garage or covered storage unit is ideal to protect from elements, sun, and potential theft.
     * Climate-Controlled (If Possible): If you live in an area with extreme temperatures or high humidity, a climate-controlled environment will further protect the interior and electronics.
     * Avoid Grass/Dirt: Don't park on grass or dirt, as moisture can rise and cause rust. A concrete or paved surface is best.
-* Thorough Cleaning:
+  * Thorough Cleaning:
     * Wash and Wax: Clean the exterior thoroughly to remove all dirt, grime, and bird droppings, then apply a good coat of wax for protection.
     * Clean the Interior: Vacuum, wipe down surfaces, and remove any food items or anything that could attract pests or mold.
     * Undercarriage Wash: If possible, clean the undercarriage to remove salt, dirt, or debris that could lead to rust.
-* Fluid Management:
+  * Fluid Management:
     * Change Oil and Filter: Old oil can become acidic and cause corrosion. Use a fresh fill of good quality oil and a new filter.
     * Top Off All Fluids: Ensure all other fluids (coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, windshield washer fluid) are at their proper levels. Consider a coolant flush if it's due.
     * Fuel Stabilizer: Fill the gas tank completely and add a fuel stabilizer. This prevents the fuel from degrading, forming gum, and clogging the fuel system. A full tank also reduces condensation inside the tank.
-* Battery Care:
+  * Battery Care:
     * Remove and Store: The best option for a year-long absence is to remove the battery and store it in a cool, dry place.
     * Battery Tender/Maintainer: If you can't remove it or prefer not to, connect it to a ”smart” battery tender or maintainer (not just a trickle charger) that will keep it charged without overcharging. This needs a power outlet.
     * Disconnect Negative Terminal: As a minimum, disconnect the negative battery terminal to prevent parasitic drains, but this won't prevent self-discharge over a year.
-* Tires:
+  * Tires:
     * Overinflate Slightly: Inflate tires to about 5-10 PSI above the recommended pressure. This helps prevent flat spots from developing over time.
     * Jack Stands (Ideal): If possible, put the car on jack stands to take the weight off the tires and suspension. This is the best way to prevent flat spots.
     * Avoid Parking on Uneven Surfaces:Ensure the car is on a flat, even surface.
-* Pest Prevention:
+  * Pest Prevention:
     * Block Entry Points: Stuff steel wool or rags into exhaust pipes, air intake, and any other openings to prevent rodents and insects from making a home in your car. Remember to remove these before starting the car!
     * Mothballs/Repellents: Some people place mothballs or other rodent repellents around the car, but be mindful of potential odors.
     * Seal Gaps: If storing in a garage, seal any gaps or cracks in the walls or doors.
-* Parking Brake:
+  * Parking Brake:
     * Do NOT Engage: Do not set the parking brake for long-term storage, especially if you live in a humid climate. The brake pads can fuse to the rotors. If on a flat surface, put the car in park (automatic) or in gear (manual) and use wheel chocks.
-* Cover the Car:
+  * Cover the Car:
     * Breathable Car Cover: Use a good quality, breathable car cover to protect against dust, scratches, and UV rays (even indoors). Avoid plastic tarps, which can trap moisture.
-* Insurance:
+  * Insurance:
     * Inform Your Insurer: Contact your car insurance company. You might be able to reduce your coverage (e.g., to comprehensive only) while the car is in storage, saving you money.
-* Documentation:
+  * Documentation:
     * Keep all car documents, maintenance records, and registration in a safe place.
-Should the Car Be Driven in Your Absence?
-* Generally, No. For a full year, it's generally not recommended to have someone drive your car regularly unless they are exceptionally trustworthy, insured, and understand proper car care.
+====Should the Car Be Driven in Your Absence?====
-* Why Not:
+  * Generally, No. For a full year, it's generally not recommended to have someone drive your car regularly unless they are exceptionally trustworthy, insured, and understand proper car care.
+  * Why Not:
     * Wear and Tear: Every drive puts wear on components.
     * Insurance Liability: If something happens while they're driving, your insurance might be impacted.
     * Mechanical Issues: They might not notice or report small mechanical issues that develop.
-* The “Start and Idle” Myth: Don't just have someone start the car and let it idle for a few minutes. This does more harm than good as it doesn't allow the engine to reach operating temperature, leading to condensation build-up in the exhaust and engine.
+  * The “Start and Idle” Myth: Don't just have someone start the car and let it idle for a few minutes. This does more harm than good as it doesn't allow the engine to reach operating temperature, leading to condensation build-up in the exhaust and engine.
-* The Alternative: Occasional Professional Check-Up: If you're truly concerned about the car sitting, you could arrange for a trusted mechanic or car care service to do an occasional check (e.g., once every 3-6 months) which might involve a short drive only if absolutely necessary to circulate fluids and ensure all systems are working, but this is usually overkill for a year of storage if the initial preparation is done correctly.
+  * The Alternative: Occasional Professional Check-Up: If you're truly concerned about the car sitting, you could arrange for a trusted mechanic or car care service to do an occasional check (e.g., once every 3-6 months) which might involve a short drive only if absolutely necessary to circulate fluids and ensure all systems are working, but this is usually overkill for a year of storage if the initial preparation is done correctly.
-When You Return After a Year:
-* Check for Pests:
+====When You Return After a Year====
+  * Check for Pests:
     * Before doing anything, look for signs of pests (nests, droppings). Remove any blockages from exhaust and air intake.
-* Check All Fluids:
+  * Check All Fluids:
     * Verify all fluid levels (oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering, windshield washer). Top off if needed. Look for any leaks.
-* Battery Reconnection/Reinstallation:
+  * Battery Reconnection/Reinstallation:
     * If you removed the battery, reinstall it and connect the positive terminal first, then the negative. If you used a tender, disconnect it.
-* Tire Pressure:
+  * Tire Pressure:
     * Check and adjust all tire pressures to the manufacturer's recommended PSI. Visually inspect for cracks or damage.
-* Brakes:
+  * Brakes:
     * Test the brakes gently at low speeds. The rotors might have some surface rust, which should clear up after a few applications. If you hear grinding or feel pulsing, have them inspected.
-* Fuel System:
+  * Fuel System:
     * If you used fuel stabilizer, you should be fine. If not, consider adding fresh fuel and potentially a fuel system cleaner.
-* Initial Start-Up:
+  * Initial Start-Up:
     * Turn the key to the ”on” position (without starting) a few times to allow the fuel pump to prime the system.
     * Start the engine. It might take a little longer to crank. Listen for any unusual noises.
     * Let the car idle for a few minutes to circulate fluids and build oil pressure.
-* Check Lights and Wipers:
+  * Check Lights and Wipers:
     * Test all exterior lights (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights) and the windshield wipers.
-* Test Drive:
+  * Test Drive:
     * Start with a short, gentle drive to a local gas station. Pay attention to how the car feels, sounds, and handles. Listen for any strange noises, check the dashboard warning lights.
-* Refuel:
+  * Refuel:
     * Top off the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
-* First Service:
+  * First Service:
     * Consider getting an oil change and a general inspection by a trusted mechanic shortly after your return, especially if you have any concerns or if the car experienced extreme temperature fluctuations during storage.
-By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of issues and ensure your car is in good condition when you return from your year abroad.
+//By following these steps, you can significantly reduce the risk of issues and ensure your car is in good condition when you return from your year abroad.//