Anyone ever store a car long-term, like in a garage or storage area

[joeybee12]

for a year or so?

Thinking of hig-tailing it to Prague for a year or two. Don't want to sell my car, don't want to take it over there either. Anyway, if you've done it, would you recommend it? Was it expensive?

Thanks!

[shraby]

1. The thing you have to watch for are mice that like

to build nests in the upholstery and other places in the car. If you have someone to check on it from time to time that would be good.

[joeybee12]

4. I hadn't thought about that--thanks.

[NoSunWithoutShadow]

11. We wrapped our car in plastic and sealed it up with

duct tape, because it was stored in a drafty garage. It did keep the mice out.

[seriousstan]

2. remove the spark plugs and put a shot of oil in the

cylinders, add fuel stabilizer to the gas tank.

[joeybee12]

3. Welcome to DU--you sound like you know a lot about cars!

In other words, we have nothing in common! Thanks for the advice.

[Mark H]

5. serioustan is right

you will also want to remove the battery. get the antifreze freshened (replaced). When you return you will want to change all the fluids(oil, transmission, antifreze)

[joeybee12]

7. Yikes another newbie! Welcome!

[DustMolecule]

6. Every storage situation is different

You (or your profile) don't mention what part of the country you're in. If you're more in the northern climates finding storage space THIS time of year is more difficult (and expensive) because lots of people are storing their boats, jet skis, convertible automobiles, etc. If you're planning on leaving for your Prague adventure in the spring/summer, it will be easier to find storage.

Be 'creative' when you think about your options. For example an elderly person or a single mom with a two car garage they're only using 1/2 of, could probably use an extra $50/month or so in rent. If you know of any folks like this, they'd probably be happy if you approach them with the idea, all's they can say is 'no', but probably would say 'yes'. You'd be a GREAT garage renter b/c you wouldn't be in/out with yourself or your car. Perhaps you would just have a friend/relative come in (with an appointment) to start it up every 3-6 months or so.

If you put your car in a two-car garage with another vehicle next to it that will be 'used', put a big piece of cardboard against the side of your car to guard against nicks and scratchs from their car door hitting yours.

You'd have to talk with your insurance agent about what type of converage you would need (like, in case the garage burnt down or something).

Last thing I can think of is, if there is a possibility of birds or wild cats (say, in a barn storage situation), make sure you cover your car well to protect against bird droppings or kitty paw prints
:-) .

Good luck!

[joeybee12]

8. I'm in Denver right now...it'llbe a few months until I go...

Great idea about the little old lady...her car probably wouldn't be moved much either, so it would also cut down on the nicks and dents!

[madrchsod]

9. if you have newer tires

put the car on blocks and take off the tires, stack them inflated with cardboard between them. like others said use stablizers. it will probaly cost some bucks esp if heated. if not you should also try and rust proof the rotors and exhaust system . they will rust really fast in an unheated storage. buy a good car cover-no plastic.

[mcscajun]

10. Hoses and Belts...

...you'll want to have them thoroughly checked and replaced as necessary on your return.

[joeybee12]

12. Thanks Everyone!

My computer is too damn slow this a.m. to post individually!