Whether it’s a car, motorcycle or boat, storing your vehicle for a long period requires more than just locking it away. Without proper preparation, even short-term storage can lead to long-term damage. Paint fades, batteries die, rust forms, and tyres flatten. To avoid unexpected repair costs and preserve your vehicle’s condition, a few key steps can make a big difference.
This guide offers 8 must-do steps backed by expert knowledge and practical long-term vehicle storage tips. From fuel and fluids to tyre pressure and battery health, each section is clear, actionable, and written for Australian conditions.
1- Clean Your Vehicle Thoroughly
Before putting your vehicle into storage, give it a full clean – inside and out. Dust, bird droppings, salt, and moisture can damage paint and promote rust over time. Insects or crumbs inside the cabin can attract pests. Cleaning reduces these risks and helps you spot issues early.
- Wash and dry the exterior to remove dirt and grime
- Vacuum the interior and remove any food or rubbish
- Apply a quality wax for added paint protection
- For boats, flush the engine and wash down the hull
Cleaning may seem cosmetic, but it plays a big role in long-term preservation. It’s one of the most overlooked yet essential vehicle storage maintenance tips.
2- Top Up or Replace Fluids
Fluids degrade over time, especially in fluctuating temperatures. Replacing or topping them up before storage helps protect the engine, cooling system, and brakes.
- Engine oil: Old oil contains contaminants that can cause corrosion
- Coolant: Ensures internal engine components stay protected
- Brake fluid: Prevents moisture build-up in brake lines
- Fuel: Fill the tank and use a stabiliser to stop fuel breakdown
For motorcycles and boats, this step is equally important. Following a proper motorcycle storage preparation guide or boat storage checklist Australia helps avoid build-up or corrosion in the fuel system.
Refer to NRMA for more on recommended fluid change intervals in Australia.
3- Maintain the Battery
A flat battery is one of the most common issues after long-term storage. Without use, batteries slowly discharge, leaving your vehicle unable to start.
- Store the battery in a dry, cool place if removed
- For newer models, check if battery disconnection may affect electronics
For more car battery storage advice, Supercheap Auto offers practical tips.
4- Inflate Tyres to the Correct Pressure
Tyres can lose pressure when left sitting for extended periods, which may lead to flat spots, cracks, or warping. Checking and adjusting your tyre pressure is a simple yet essential step before storage.
- Inflate tyres to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure
- Avoid over-inflating, which can cause uneven wear
- If storing for several months, consider tyre cradles or jack stands to reduce pressure on the tyres
This applies across all vehicle types – cars, motorbikes, and trailers. Boats on trailers should also have their tyre pressure checked and maintained to avoid deterioration.
Refer to Tyrepower for more advice on how to prevent rust and tyre damage in storage and maintain tyre integrity over time.
5- Use a Quality Vehicle Cover
A proper cover protects your vehicle from dust, moisture, and pests. It also guards against accidental scratches or paint damage – especially useful in shared storage spaces or garages.
- Use a breathable, water-resistant cover
- For outdoor storage, ensure the cover is UV-protected and secured against wind
- Avoid plastic covers—they trap moisture and cause mould
Covers are especially important for motorbikes and boats, which may have more exposed parts than cars. Choosing the right cover helps protect your car in storage and can extend the life of paint, rubber, and upholstery.
6- Choose the Right Storage Location
Not all storage is equal. The environment directly impacts how well your vehicle holds up over time. A secure, dry, and weather-protected facility helps reduce risks like rust, battery drain, and tyre damage.
- Indoor or covered storage units offer better protection from the elements
- Look for surveillance systems, access control, and pest management
- Avoid low-lying or flood-prone areas where moisture can build up
At Storage Choice, vehicle storage is made easy and stress-free. Whether you’re storing a car, motorcycle or boat, you’ll find secure options at several of our Queensland locations. Each site offers features like CCTV, gated access, pest control, and extended access hours—so you can store with confidence, knowing your vehicle is safe.
Covered storage options help protect against sun, rain, and other harsh weather. Our expert team is also available to help you find a space that suits your vehicle size and your plans—whether you’re storing short-term or long-term.
If you’re looking for the best way to store a vehicle long-term, start by choosing a location that puts your needs first. Explore your nearest option at Storage Choice Locations.
7- Prevent Pests from Getting In
A stationary vehicle can attract unwanted guests. Rodents, insects, and spiders often seek shelter in engines, exhausts, or upholstery. Once inside, they can chew through wiring, build nests, or leave behind waste that damages materials.
Here are a few ways to protect your vehicle from pests during long-term storage:
- Block exhaust pipes and air intakes with steel wool or breathable mesh
- Avoid leaving food, rubbish, or organic matter inside the vehicle
- Use natural repellents like peppermint oil or mothballs in safe areas
- Check for signs of infestation before covering your vehicle
Boats and motorcycles, in particular, have more exposed areas that pests may enter. Taking a few preventative steps now can save you from costly repairs later. For more detailed advice, PestXpert offers insights into pest control methods that are safe for use around vehicles and stored goods.
8- Review Insurance and Registration Requirements
Before locking up your vehicle, it’s important to understand how storage impacts your legal and financial responsibilities. If your vehicle is registered but unused, you may still be liable for insurance or road-related fees.
Here’s what to check:
- Contact your insurer to adjust your policy for stored or unregistered vehicles
- Confirm whether comprehensive cover still applies while the vehicle is off-road
- In some states, you can deregister your vehicle to avoid registration fees, but this varies
- Make a note of any requirements for re-registration or inspections before driving again
You may also want to photograph the vehicle before storage as a reference for condition. This can be useful in the unlikely event of damage or claims.
Refer to your state’s transport authority for the most up-to-date information. For example, QLD Government Transport and Main Roads provides clear steps on cancelling or changing registration for vehicles not in use.
Getting Back on the Road: A Quick Restart Checklist
After months in storage, a few checks will help get your vehicle running safely again. Long- term storage affects different components, so it’s worth taking your time and following a simple process.
Here’s a quick checklist before starting the engine:
- Remove any covers and inspect for signs of pests or damage
- Reconnect the battery (if it was disconnected)
- Check fluid levels, especially oil, coolant, and brake fluid
- Inspect tyres for pressure and flat spots – adjust as needed
- Test lights, indicators, and wipers
- Start the engine and let it idle for a few minutes before driving
If your vehicle was deregistered, you’ll need to arrange re-registration and possibly an inspection before driving on public roads. For more on that process, Service NSW provides clear guidance for vehicle re-registration across various scenarios.
Before driving away, also check for any unusual sounds or dashboard warning lights. These could indicate minor issues that developed during storage and are better handled early.
Store Smarter, Drive Easier
Storing your vehicle is more than parking it and walking away. With the right steps, you can avoid common problems like dead batteries, rust, pest damage, or tyre issues. Whether it’s a car, motorcycle, or boat, proper preparation and a good storage environment protect your investment and give peace of mind.
To recap the 8 must-do steps for long-term vehicle storage:
- Clean your vehicle thoroughly
- Top up or replace fluids
- Maintain the battery
- Inflate tyres to the correct pressure
- Use a quality vehicle cover
- Choose the right storage location
- Prevent pests from getting in
- Review insurance and registration requirements
Following these vehicle storage dos and don’ts ensures that when it’s time to hit the road again, your vehicle is ready – safe, clean, and fully functional.
If you’re planning to store your vehicle, Storage Choice offers a range of secure and accessible storage options throughout Queensland. From undercover car spaces to large units suitable for boats and bikes, you’ll find a solution that fits your needs.
Have questions? Our expert team is here to help. Explore locations, check availability, or get more info at storagechoice.com.au.