People may decide to store a vehicle temporarily for a wide range of purposes. In some cases, people store their vehicles when they are intended for only seasonal use. People may also store their vehicles if they are leaving home for an extended period of time, or if the vehicle is owned by an elderly relative who no longer needs it.
When storing a vehicle for any reason, there are many different issues to consider.
Choosing a Storage Location
If you are planning to store a vehicle, you can choose to store it at your home, at the home of a friend or in a rented storage unit. Each of these options offers different advantages, so it is important to consider your needs carefully before you make a decision.
If you are looking for the least expensive option, storing the car on your property or a friend’s property is probably the most affordable option. With a rented storage unit, you will need to pay rent on a monthly basis, whereas home-based storage is usually free. However, your vehicle may not be as safe or well protected as it would be in a rented storage unit. Rented storage units are often locked and/or located in a gated area.
If you are storing your vehicle during the winter, it may be wise to choose a climate-controlled location to keep your vehicle out of the elements.
Preparing Your Vehicle for Storage
Before putting your vehicle away, it is important to make sure it is properly prepared. Some of the steps you should take to prepare your vehicle include:
- Check your fluids. – Don’t lock your vehicle away until you have checked all of the important fluid levels. You should check these levels again when you bring the vehicle back out of storage.
- Stabilize the fuel. – Before you store the vehicle, top off your tank and add a stabilizing additive to the fuel to prevent it from deteriorating.
- Prepare the battery – A vehicle’s battery will lose charge when the vehicle isn’t started for an extended period. One of the best ways to stop the battery from losing charge is to start the car once every two weeks. If this solution is not possible, you can also disconnect the negative battery cable.
- Protect your vehicle from animals – When your car is in storage, mice and other rodents may be tempted to enter it and cause damage. Place mothballs around your vehicle to repel these animals and be sure to cover any gaps where they may enter.
Take Care of Insurance
Even if you are planning to put your vehicle into storage, it is still important to maintain proper insurance coverage. In general, it is best to keep your comprehensive coverage active while the car is in storage, as this policy will protect you from vandalism, fire, and other types of losses that could still occur. However, if you want to save money, you may be able to suspend your collision coverage, as long as you don’t have a loan with a lender who requires this type of insurance.
If you choose to suspend coverage on your vehicle, remember to contact your agent to have it reinstated before you drive the vehicle again.
To learn more about insurance coverage or to discuss your individual needs, please contact Philleo Agency Insurance today.
