How to Check Your Car After Long-Term Storage — What Systems to Inspect Before You Drive Off
Leaving your car in long-term storage can lead to various issues that may affect its performance when you finally take it out for a drive. Whether it’s been parked for a few months or even longer, it’s important to properly inspect your car before hitting the road. This article will guide you through the essential systems you need to check after long-term storage, ensuring that your car is safe and ready to go. By following these tips, you can avoid unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs, and get back on the road with confidence.
- Inspect the Battery
- Check the Tires
- Examine the Fluids
- Brake System Check
- Check the Fuel System
- When to Seek Professional Help or Towing
Inspect the Battery
The first system you should inspect after your car has been in storage for a while is the battery. If a car sits unused for months, the battery can lose its charge, and in some cases, it may even become corroded. If the battery isn't completely dead, you might be able to jump-start the car, but if there’s corrosion or extensive wear, it might need to be replaced.
When checking the battery, look for signs of corrosion around the terminals (which can appear as white or blue powder). Clean the terminals with a wire brush if necessary, and check the battery’s voltage with a multimeter. A healthy battery should read around 12.6 volts when the car is off. If the voltage is lower than that, consider charging the battery or getting it tested at an auto parts store.
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Check the Tires
Tires can lose air pressure over time, especially when a vehicle is sitting idle for long periods. Low tire pressure can make driving unsafe and may lead to uneven tire wear or even blowouts. Before driving, it’s crucial to inspect the tire pressure and inflate them to the recommended levels. Use a tire pressure gauge to ensure they are properly inflated, and check for any visible cracks or damage in the tire walls that may have developed during storage.
If the tires are flat or have lost their shape, it’s a good idea to replace them before taking your car on the road. Additionally, check the tread depth to make sure there is enough grip for safe driving. If your tires show signs of wear or age, it might be time to replace them, especially if they have been sitting for a while.
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Examine the Fluids
After your car has been in storage, checking the fluids is an essential step. This includes engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid, and power steering fluid. These fluids can degrade over time, and old or low fluids can lead to engine damage, overheating, or brake failure.
Start by checking the engine oil level and condition. If the oil appears dirty or low, change it before driving. Also, ensure the coolant is at the proper level and hasn’t become contaminated. Don’t forget to check the brake fluid and transmission fluid to ensure they are at optimal levels and in good condition. If you notice any fluid leaks under your car, it’s best to have them repaired before driving to prevent further damage.
Brake System Check
The brake system is one of the most critical components to inspect after long-term storage. Even if your car hasn’t been driven, the brake pads and rotors may have developed rust, which can impact braking performance. Rust on the rotors can cause your brakes to feel uneven, squeaky, or less effective.
Before taking your car out for a drive, inspect the brake pads and rotors for any signs of wear or rust. If the brake pads look thin or the rotors are heavily rusted, it’s time to replace them. After inspecting, gently test the brakes at low speed to ensure they are working properly. If you experience any issues with braking, get your car checked by a professional mechanic.
Check the Fuel System
Fuel can degrade over time, and if your car has been sitting in storage for an extended period, the fuel may have become stale. Stale fuel can cause difficulty starting the car or poor engine performance. If the fuel in your tank is old, it’s advisable to drain it and refill with fresh fuel before driving.
Additionally, check the fuel lines and filters for any cracks or leaks. If you notice any signs of fuel leakage or smell gasoline, avoid starting the car and have it checked by a mechanic immediately. It’s essential to ensure that the fuel system is in good working order before you hit the road.
When to Seek Professional Help or Towing
While some car inspections can be done on your own, if you encounter any issues you are unable to resolve, it’s best to seek professional help. If your car is not starting, if there are any strange noises, or if it’s unsafe to drive after performing these checks, it’s important to have your vehicle professionally inspected by a mechanic. In some cases, you might need a tow to the nearest service center for more extensive repairs.
If you're unsure about how to handle any of these checks or if your car has developed more complex issues after being in storage, consider calling a towing service to safely transport your vehicle to a repair shop. At Rescue & Towing, we provide reliable towing services and can help you get your car to the right place for repair or inspection.
