In the Spring, I’ll be headed back overseas for deployment. I have several cars now, but will be selling my JEEP and Xterra before I leave, which will leave me with my new BMW. I’m single, and because the base here in TX is closing, we’ll be leaving from TX, but returning 6 months later to San Diego. In the past, I’ve been coming back to an aparetment or house, so I’ve been able to just stick my cars in the garage, and leave them. This time, I don’t have anywhere to leave the car. I’m looking into car storage in San Diego; everything from basic storage to the more comprehensive places that start the car routinely, keep it clean, etc.
Has anyone used any of these facilities? Any opinions on whether or not it’s worth the extra few dollars to go with a better storage place? If it was an old car, I wouldn’t worry about it, but it’s a brand new car. I’d appreciate any suggestions.
edit: Sorry for the OT. I meant to post this in the LR.
Not sure about storage facilities, but do a search on long term vehicle storage. It’s usually recommended to change the oil, pull the batter, and get the wheels off the ground at the very least.
A few things I do to store vehicles are to first fill up the tank full of gas before you leave. Air left in the gas tank can contain moisture and can lead to condensation and corrosion. Add a fuel stabilizer, gas is unstable and will break down into a waxy paraffin build up and can clog your fuel injectors. Get an oil change, even if you don’t need one. Especially get an oil change if you do need one. Get a car wash, I recommend a car wash rather than doing it yourself because they will spray on waxes and such that will protect your finish, but also that they clean under your car as well. You can take the battery out and hook it up to a trickle charger, etc if you want as well, but this isn’t fully necessary. Don’t put your car under a tarp, it just prevents moisture from evaporating. If you do want to cover it, use a proper car cover. If for sure it is going to be sitting for quite a while, you can also put it up on stands so that the wheels don’t get flat spots