ABBA Self Storage Units

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There are many reasons people turn to car storage units in Concord for their vehicles: the car may hold real or sentimental value but they no longer drive it or have space for it, they may be looking for a secure place to store a vehicle they only use seasonally, or they may be traveling for an extended period and need a place to keep their car. Whatever the reason, there are a few helpful tips to keep in mind when storing a vehicle. Here are eight ways to help ensure your car remains in great condition while it is in storage. 

  1. Find secure storage. Just like you would vet self-storage or contractor storage units for your valuable stored items, look for a facility that offers secure car storage. This means your vehicle is kept safe from the elements, only approved people have access to the facility, and security measures like cameras and on-site staff are in place. 
  1. Prep your car for storage. Though it may seem counterintuitive, it’s a good idea to prep your car as if you were going to show it off before you tuck it away for an extended period. Thoroughly cleaning your car means it will hold up better over time. This includes vacuuming, cleaning, and oiling the interior to ensure nothing attracts rodents or insects and washing and waxing the exterior to help preserve the paint. 
  1. Fill the tank. Again, it may not make sense to have a full tank of gas for a car to sit in one spot, but filling the tank and adding a gasoline stabilizer is a smart move if you are storing your car for longer than 30 days. This prevents moisture from accumulating in the gas tank and keeps the seals from drying out. 
  1. Consider a vapor barrier. If your car will be parked on unsealed concrete or another porous surface while in storage, lay down a plastic sheet or tarp to create a vapor barrier. The sheet will keep moisture that evaporates from the floor from reaching the underside of your car. 
  1. Remove the battery. Even when you are not using your vehicle, some electrical systems in your car can end up draining your battery over time. To preserve your battery, remove, inspect, and clean it and store it inside your car or on a clean dry surface in the facility. 
  1. Lubricate the hinges. For parts that might be vulnerable to moisture build-up and corrosion, like door hinges or the hood release hatch, give them a good once-over with a quality lubricant to protect them from damage. 
  1. Seal the engine. Ideally, your car storage facility does not have an issue with unwanted critters, but just to be safe and make sure no one makes a home out of your engine, take moment to seal it off. This can be as simple as placing clean rags in any openings like the tailpipe, fresh air intake, and the engine air intake. However, remember to take the rags out before getting your car back on the road!
  1. Give it a spin occasionally. If possible, start up your car and give it a spin at least every 60 days, ideally for 30 miles or more. 

To learn more about car storage options, call our storage experts at Abba Storage at 925-969-9222. Our team is happy to answer any questions and tell you more about our facility, its security features, and the various units available to you.