How to Prepare Your Vehicle for Storage in Ohio's Climate
Storing your vehicle in Rock Creek, Ohio, whether it's an RV for the winter or a classic car you want to protect, requires special preparation. Here in Ashtabula County, we experience a humid continental climate, characterized by hot, humid summers and cool to cold winters. These distinct seasons, with their temperature swings and precipitation, can take a toll on a stored vehicle. At Keep It Safe Storage LLC, located at 3045 Route 45, Rock Creek, OH 44084, we want to help you protect your investment. This guide will walk you through the essential steps to prepare your vehicle for storage in our unique Ohio climate.
Why Climate-Specific Vehicle Storage is Crucial
Ohio's four distinct seasons present a range of challenges for vehicle storage. The hot, humid summers can lead to moisture buildup, which can cause mold, mildew, and rust. The cold winters, with freezing temperatures and potential for snow, can damage your battery, tires, and engine fluids. By taking the proper steps, you can prevent these issues and ensure your vehicle is in the same condition you left it in. Our RV Storage, Vehicle Storage & Self-Storage Options are designed to provide a secure environment, but proper preparation is key to long-term protection.
Step-by-Step Vehicle Preparation Guide
1. Thoroughly Clean Your Vehicle
Before storing your vehicle, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out. Dirt, bird droppings, and other debris can damage the paint over time. A good wash and a fresh coat of wax will provide an extra layer of protection against moisture and rust. Don't forget to clean the interior as well. Crumbs and food wrappers can attract pests, which can cause significant damage.
2. Change the Oil and Top Off Fluids
Old, used engine oil contains contaminants that can damage the engine. Before storing your vehicle, it's a good idea to get an oil change. You should also top off other essential fluids like antifreeze, power steering fluid, and brake fluid. This will help prevent seals from drying out and cracking. A full tank of gas is also recommended, as it can prevent moisture from condensing in the tank and seals from drying out. Add a fuel stabilizer to the gasoline to prevent it from deteriorating over time.
3. Protect Your Tires
If you're storing your vehicle for an extended period, you'll want to take steps to protect the tires. Inflate them to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from developing. If possible, consider placing the vehicle on jack stands to take the weight off the tires completely. This is especially important for long-term storage during our cold Rock Creek winters.
4. Disconnect the Battery
A vehicle's battery will slowly lose its charge over time, especially in cold weather. To prevent this, disconnect the negative battery cable. For longer-term storage, you may want to remove the battery altogether and store it in a cool, dry place on a battery tender. This will ensure it's ready to go when you are.
5. Prevent Pests
Pests like rodents and insects can wreak havoc on a stored vehicle. They can chew through wires, build nests in your engine bay, and damage the interior. To prevent this, block off any potential entry points, such as the exhaust pipe and air intake. You can use steel wool for this, as mice and other rodents can't chew through it. You can also place mothballs or peppermint oil-soaked cotton balls inside and around the vehicle as a deterrent.
Your Trusted Storage Solution in Rock Creek, OH
Properly preparing your vehicle for storage will protect your investment and give you peace of mind. When you're ready to store your car or truck, look no further than Keep It Safe Storage LLC. Our facility at 3045 Route 45 offers a variety of RV Storage, Vehicle Storage & Self-Storage Options to meet your needs. We are conveniently located for residents of Rock Creek and the surrounding Ashtabula County area. Whether you're a local resident or visiting the area for attractions like The Great Lakes Medieval Faire, Morgan Swamp Preserve, & Ohio Star Theater at Dutch Valley, we have the storage solutions for you.Contact us today to learn more about our storage options and how we can help you keep your vehicle safe and secure, no matter the season.