TOKU - Treasury of Knowledge for Users

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?

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:

• 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • 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:
  • Keep all car documents, maintenance records, and registration in a safe place.

• 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 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.

• Check for Pests:
  • Before doing anything, look for signs of pests (nests, droppings). Remove any blockages from exhaust and air intake.
• 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:
  • 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:
  • Check and adjust all tire pressures to the manufacturer's recommended PSI. Visually inspect for cracks or damage.
• 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:
  • If you used fuel stabilizer, you should be fine. If not, consider adding fresh fuel and potentially a fuel system cleaner.
• 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:
  • Test all exterior lights (headlights, tail lights, turn signals, brake lights) and the windshield wipers.
• 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:
  • Top off the fuel tank with fresh gasoline.
• 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.