Protect your car while parked for extended periods

So you’re going on an extended vacation and won’t be back for months. Or maybe you’re looking to winterize your convertible after the hot summer months are over. Perhaps you’re leaving town for a long work trip or are in the military and are being deployed overseas. No matter what the case is, these easy steps will ensure that your car is ready to roll when you return to it after a long period of time. ​

Keep Your Car Protected From The Elements
​Ideally, you should park your car in the garage when you are leaving it for an extended period of time. If you don’t have garage space, consider looking into the cost of parking your car at a public storage facility. When parking your car indoors is not possible, it’s a good idea to purchase a weatherproof car cover to keep it clean and dry. 

Wash Up
Before leaving your car for months, don’t forget to give it a car wash. Dirt, water stains and bird droppings can damage the paint of your car when left on it over time. Be sure to thoroughly clean the wheels, fenders and give your car a final coat of wax before storing. 

Fuel Up 
Fill your car’s gas tank when leaving it for more than 30 days. This can help to prevent moisture from creeping into the fuel tank and also helps to keep the seals from drying out. Purchase a fuel stabilizer such as Sta-bil to prevent ethanol buildup and prevent the gas from deteriorating for up to 12 months.

Charge Up
An unattended battery will eventually lose its charge. Ask someone to start the car every two weeks and drive it for about 15 minutes if possible. This can benefit your car by maintaining the battery charge and keeping the engine and other components lubricated. If no one is available to start your car, look into purchasing a battery tender also known as a trickle charger. This device hooks up to your car battery and the wall outlet to deliver enough electrical power to prevent the battery from discharging.

Change The Oil
If you’re leaving your car for more than 30 days, it's a good idea to change the oil. This is recommended because used engine oil has contaminants that can cause damage to the engine over time. 

When you’re ready to bring your car out of storage, follow the below checklist to ensure your car will run smoothly. 

1. Check under the hood for rodents.
2. Check the windshield wipers for rubber cracks.
3. Check the tire pressure and inflate to the proper level.
4. Check the brakes for rust.
5. Check fluid levels for leaks.
6. Reconnect your battery and clean terminals.
7. Wash your vehicle to remove any dirt that may have accumulated. 

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If you leave your vehicle and notice any cosmetic damages such as dents, scratches, or windshield damage, the experts at Abra Auto Body & Glass are here to help! No matter where you are or what you need, Abra Auto is here to provide quality workmanship, superior service, and dedication to detail in everything that we do.