Top Tips for Storing Your Car in an Outdoor Parking Space

If you plan to store your vehicle in an outdoor parking space, you need to take the proper precautions to ensure it remains in the best condition. At Derrels Mini Storage, 750 N Fowler Ave, Clovis, CA, 93611, we offer great outdoor parking solutions. Here are some tips to help you protect your car while it is parked outside.

1. Clean Out Your Vehicle

Before placing your car in a parking spot outdoors, make sure you clean your vehicle:

• Exterior: Start off by washing your car and removing the dirt and grim build-up. Then wax it.  This provides a protective layer against sun rays.
• Interior: Vacuum the carpets and wipe down the interior surfaces. Make sure there is no moisture trapped inside your car. This could cause mold growth and deter pests from getting in your car.

2. Change & Preserve The Fluids

• Oil Change: Do a fresh oil change to prevent already dirty fluids from building on the bottom of the vehicle. This ensures that the oil is fresh at the start-up.
• Fuel Tank: In your gas tank, you should add a fuel stabilizer to maintain fuel quality so you don’t run into any problems with moisture getting into your gas tank. This makes rust a nonissue. 

3. Protect Your Car Battery

If you plan to do long-term storage, you should take these steps to protect your battery:

• Disconnect the Battery: This prevents drainage and prolongs battery life since no charge is being pulled from the battery.
• Trickle Charger: Alternatively, use a trickle charger to maintain the battery's charge.

4. Inflate Properly

Ensure tires are inflated to the recommended pressure to avoid flat spots. Slightly overinflating can compensate for pressure loss over time.

5. Use a Weatherproof Car Cover

Invest in a high-quality, weatherproof cover to shield your vehicle from sun, rain, and debris. Ensure it's breathable to prevent moisture buildup underneath.

6. Prevent Pest Infestations

Seal openings like exhaust pipes and air intakes with steel wool or specialized covers to deter rodents. Avoid using materials that pests can chew through.

7. Avoid Engaging the Parking Brake

Instead of setting the parking brake, use wheel chocks to prevent movement. This prevents brake pads from sticking to the rotors over time.

8. Regularly Check on Your Vehicle

Periodically inspect your car to ensure tires remain inflated, covers are secure, and there are no signs of pests or damage. Starting the engine occasionally helps keep components lubricated.

By following these steps, you can confidently store your vehicle in an outdoor parking space, knowing it's well-protected. Derrels Mini Storage at 750 N Fowler Ave, Clovis, CA, 9361, is committed to providing secure and convenient storage solutions tailored to your needs.

For more information on our vehicle storage options, contact us today!