Classic Car Storage - Everything you need to consider

If you are a classic car enthusiast, chances are you have asked yourself these questions. Whether you have a restored classic car or you're in the middle of a restoration project, proper car storage is essential to keeping your ride in good condition. In this blog, we'll cover everything you need to consider when it comes to storing your pride and joy.

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Preparing Your Classic Car for Long-Term Storage

When you're preparing your classic car for long-term storage, there are a few key steps you should take to ensure it stays in top condition - some will be obvious, others less so:

• Clean the car thoroughly: Before storing your classic car, make sure to clean it thoroughly. This will help prevent any dirt or debris from causing damage to the car's finish - especially if it has nice leather seats!
• Change the oil: It's a good idea to change the oil in your classic car before storing it. Old oil can become acidic and damage the engine over time.
• Add fuel stabiliser: If you're storing your classic car for an extended period of time, it's important to add a fuel stabiliser to the petrol tank. This will help prevent the fuel from breaking down and causing damage to the engine. They are usually made of antioxidants, metal deactivators, and other chemicals that work together to slow down the oxidation process and inhibit the formation of gum and varnish in the fuel.
• Protect the battery: If you're storing your classic car for more than a few months, it's a good idea to disconnect the battery. This will help prevent the battery from losing its charge and potentially damaging the car's electrical system. Some people have a trickle charger plugged in to ensure the battery doesn't die.
• Cover the car: Make sure to cover your classic car with a high-quality car cover. This will help protect the car from dust, debris, and other environmental factors that could cause damage. A high-quality car cover shouldn't cost too much but it is well worth the investment, particularly if it is being stored outside. See the section below for

Preventing Rodents and Other Pests from Damaging Your Classic Car

Needless to say, rodents and other pests can cause serious damage to your classic car if they get inside. Here are a few tips to help prevent pests from making their way into your car:

• Keep the car clean: Make sure to clean your classic car thoroughly before storing it. This will help remove any food or debris that might attract pests.
• Use pest repellents: You can use pest repellents such as mothballs, dryer sheets, or peppermint oil to keep rodents and other pests away from your car.
• Seal up any openings: Make sure to seal up any openings in your garage or storage unit where pests might be able to enter. A good-fitting cover will also help here.

 

 

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Preventing Rust on Your Classic Car While in Storage

Rust can be a serious problem for classic cars, especially if they're stored in a damp or humid environment. Here are a few tips to help prevent rust from forming on your classic car:

• Keep the car dry: Make sure to store your classic car in a dry environment. If you're storing it in a garage, make sure the garage is dry and well-ventilated.
• Use a dehumidifier: If you live in a humid climate, consider using a dehumidifier in your storage area to help keep the air dry.
• Apply rust inhibitors: You can apply rust inhibitors to your car's body and undercarriage to help prevent rust from forming.

Protecting the Tyres and Wheels of Your Classic Car While in Storage

When your car is in storage, it's important to protect the tyres and wheels from damage. Here are a few tips to help keep your tyres and wheels in good condition:

• Inflate the tyres: Make sure to inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure before storing your classic car. This will help prevent flat spots from forming.
• Use jack stands: If you're storing your classic car for an extended period of time, consider using jack stands to take the weight off the tyres. This will help prevent flat spots and other damage.
• Cover the wheels: Make sure to cover the wheels with a high-quality cover to protect them from dust and debris. You can also use tyre covers to protect the tyres from damage.

 

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Choosing the Right Car Cover for Your Classic Car

Choosing the right car cover is essential to protecting your classic car while it's in storage. Here are a few things to consider when choosing a car cover - some of these things will depend if your car is being stored inside or outside:

• Material: Look for a car cover made from a breathable material, such as cotton or a cotton blend. This will help prevent moisture from getting trapped under the cover and causing damage to the car's finish.
• Fit: Make sure to choose a car cover that fits your classic car properly. A cover that is too tight or too loose can cause damage to the car's finish.
• UV protection: Look for a car cover that offers UV protection. This will help prevent the sun's rays from fading the car's paint and interior.

Draining Fluids from Your Classic Car for Storage

Some vintage car owners choose to drain the fluids from their cars before storing them for an extended period of time. Here are a few things to consider if you're thinking about draining the fluids from your classic car:

• Engine oil: If you're going to drain the engine oil, make sure to change it before storing the car. Old oil can become acidic and damage the engine over time.
• Coolant: If you're going to drain the coolant, don't forget to replace it before starting the car again. Running the engine without coolant can cause serious damage.
• Fuel: If you're storing your car for an extended period of time, it's a good idea to add fuel stabiliser to the petrol tank rather than draining the fuel completely.

Statutory Off-Road Notice

Dont forget, if you are storing your vehicle on private land and will be doing so for a long time, you can save money on your vehicle tax by declaring your car SORN. For more info, check out our blog:
 

 

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Finding the right storage solution

Whilst all of the above is important to the maintenance of your car, another key factor is finding the right storage solution to give you the most peace of mind.

• Indoor v Outdoor: Indoor car storage facilities are often more expensive but will offer protection from the elements.
• Security: An indoor space will generally provide more security, but outdoor options will usually provide locked gates and CCTV as well. Make sure you are happy with the level of security you are getting.
• Access: If you need 24 hour access, ensure the site provides this - though it is not usual for vehicle storage to do so. If you need regular easy access, also make sure they can provide this - if there are a lot of cars being stored there, you might not be able to access it so easily.

Proper car storage is essential to keeping your classic car in top condition. Whether you're storing your car for the winter or for a longer period of time, it's essential to take the necessary steps to protect it from damage. By following the tips in this blog, you can help ensure that your classic car stays in pristine condition for years to come. So, get that car cover out, disconnect the battery, and give your classic car the care it deserves!

If you are looking for the perfect storage site, we are sure to have the space for you.

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