It’s not uncommon for vehicle owners to need to store their vehicle for some time. For example, you may have a college student not likely to need their car for several months. Or, you may be older and no longer driving much. No matter the reason, our team wants to help you protect your investment properly. But, before you store your car, there are a few key things you need to remember about the process.
Why Do It and Where to Do It
Various reasons exist for storing a vehicle. You may be putting your RV, watercraft, sports car, or other vehicle away for the winter. You may need space and your RV no longer fits. Or, you may have a very valuable car, such as a collector’s edition you want to preserve. No matter your needs, both long-term and short-term options exist.
For short-term storage, your garage or that of a friend may work well. Be sure it is safe and secured, free from pests, and protected from the elements. This is a no-cost way of storing your car. But, you do need to take steps to protect it, such as removing the battery and topping up the fluids. This option is best for college student vehicles and those you may need over the next few months.
For long-term storage, consider a rental facility. These locations are beneficial because they allow you to store the vehicle in a climate-controlled location safe from theft and the elements. Not all locations are the same, though. Use this option for RVs, sports cars, other valuable vehicles, and anything else you do not want at home. Be sure it is a pest-free location that offers ample security.
What About Insurance?
Stored vehicles are still valuable assets, those you want to protect because they have value to you. As a result, pay close attention to your options with auto insurance.
Nearly all drivers benefit from comprehensive coverage. Your insurance agency can help you create a policy fitting to your needs here. However, these policies often provide coverage for things like vandalism, theft, and storms.
You may be tempted to drop collision insurance and liability insurance. Technically, if the vehicle will not move for the next six months, you may not need these forms of coverage. But, if there is any risk of someone driving the car, or you have a lease or loan on the car, it is best to choose to maintain these types of coverage. Your lender may even require it.
How Can You Ready Your Car for Storage?
To protect your asset, be sure you take a few more steps before you place the car in storage. For example, remove the battery and store it off the ground. Top up the fluids. And, be sure to add a product like Sta-Bil to the gas tank to preserve the fuel. You also want to empty all waste and water containers from RVs, clean off the surface of the vehicle to avoid scratches, and cover it.
What About Using It Again?
When the time comes to use your vehicle again, call Leonard Insurance first. Our team can quickly work with you to get your vehicle insured again. It is necessary to have proper protection in place before you remove the car from storage. Otherwise, an accident on the way home can be devastating.
Also important is to check your vehicle before driving it. Be sure it is in good, safe condition. You do not want to end up in an accident from this, either.
