Car Tips #130: How to Prepare Your Car for Storage By Frank-Ling / Oct 23, 2015 share Facebook Twitter Google + LinkedIn Pinterest Email Share... As autumn starts to end and with winter fast approaching some drivers are considering putting one or more of their cars away for storage until the following spring. By doing this, they will save some trouble in having to keep these cars maintained and running.However, what is the proper way to put your car away for winter storage or an extended period? One of the most important things to do is to make sure to fill your tank and add some fuel stabilizer. After this, drive 30-40 miles to make sure the fuel system is saturated with the “preserved” gas.The next thing on your checklist is to change out the oil and top off all the car fluids such as the antifreeze, windshield wiper solution, and brake fluid. At this point, it wouldn’t hurt to give the car a good wax or sealant coat to the paint.Pull the PlugsSome car storage buffs recommend the removal of the spark plugs and spraying oil into the cylinders to prevent any rust buildup during storage. After coating the cylinders and the treads of the spark plugs, reinstall them to factory specs.Save the BatteryFor long-term storage, disconnect the negative terminal to the car battery. This helps to slow down the discharge rate while the battery is sitting idle. Others ensure that they’ll have a freshly charged battery by removing it and using a “battery tender” or an electronic charging device that charges and conditions the battery while not in use.Don't Give Me a BrakeDon’t use the parking brake. If you plan to store the car for several months or more, release the parking brake so that the pads don’t get stuck or fuse to the brake rotors. Then, use wooden chuck blocks or some other stop to prevent the car from rolling backward or forward.Got It Covered?For indoor storage, cover the car with a light cloth to allow air to circulate in and around the car’s surface. If you use a plastic cover, it will tend to encourage condensation underneath, which can lead to corrosion or mold on the car. If you are storing it outdoors, buy a cover made for outdoor use and allows ventilation.Pump It UpAs your car sits in the garage for months, the pressure in the tires will go down. Make sure to inflate your tires to proper specs before storage, and then add about 5 to 10 extra pounds of air to ward off flat tires.Cover the TailpipeDuring storage, small critters may try to enter your car through the tailpipe. To prevent them from making a home, just cover the tailpipe opening with cloth or mesh. Don’t forget to remove it when you are ready to drive the car again.Source: State Farm