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How do you store a car long term?
What’s the best way to store a car for several months? I've got a classic car and I think I'll need to store it for the winter.
Joshua Levy · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you’re going to store a car long term, you should make sure everything’s topped off and in good shape.
Here are some specific steps you should take before putting your car in long-term storage:
- Fill up the gas tank. Low gas levels can lead to a build up of moisture and rust in the tank.
- Change the oil. If it sits for too long, it might end up damaging some engine components.
- Protect your cylinders. Spray some oil into your cylinders to stop them from rusting.
- Clean the interior. Bits of food or debris can make your car musty or even moldy over time.
- Clean the exterior. Trapped particles from the outside world can collect moisture and eventually damage your paint job.
- Use a cover. Make sure to get a breathable cover for your car. Tarps and other thick covers can trap moisture against the body and cause superficial damage to the exterior.
Lastly, if you’re planning on storing the car for an extended period of time, you should consider pausing your car insurance policy. Insurance can be costly,
especially for nicer cars
. If you don’t plan on driving your vehicle for a while, managing your policy accordingly could be an easy way to save money.If you want to save even more, try using
Jerry
to explore your car insurance options. A licensed broker, the Jerry app helps you find and compare competitive quotes from top insurance brands in minutes. All you need to do is pick the coverage you like, and Jerry will handle the rest. We’ll help you buy a new plan and even cancel your old policy!MORE: 8 ways to prepare your car for winter driving or storage
View full answer
- Gregory R.
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