long-term storage of conventionally-powered vehicles (1-6 months)

[genxer36]

From Toyota's website. This may effect people in the military more.

Our minimum recommendations for long-term storage of conventionally-powered vehicles are listed below:

TOOLS AND SUPPLIES:

• Wrench

• Tire pressure gauge

• Tire pump

• Jack

• Jack stand or blocks

• Vehicle cover

• Towels or shop rags

INSTRUCTIONS:

Before storing the vehicle:

• Have the engine oil changed

• Have the engine coolant changed if due during time of storage

• Fill up the fuel tank with the appropriate gasoline for your vehicle

• Wash the vehicle; use high pressure water or steam to clean underneath

• Check underneath the floor mats to ensure the carpet is dry

• If there are any paint chips, have them repaired

When storing the vehicle:

• Operate the engine at normal operating temperature* for 15 minutes prior to shutting off the engine

• Disconnect the black negative (-) battery cable

• Leave the parking brake off

• Raise the vehicle on a level surface and place on jack stands or blocks to prevent flat spots on the tires

• If stored in a temperate, ventilated garage, the windows can be left slightly open

• Cover the vehicle

• Operate the air conditioning once a month to ensure proper lubrication

When bringing the vehicle out of storage:

• Have the battery charged and reconnect the black negative (-) battery cable

• Check fluid levels and add as needed

• Check for any leaks underneath the vehicle

• Check and inflate the tires to the correct pressure before taking the vehicle off the jack stands or blocks

• After starting the engine, observe the warning lights; if any remain illuminated, have the issue addressed by your Toyota dealership as appropriate

• Check the brake pedal for normal feel (height and firmness) before shifting the transmission

• Take the vehicle to your local dealer for general inspection

* To determine your vehicle's normal operating temperature, please refer to the section of your Owner's Manual that describes the engine coolant temperature gauge.

Note: If you are planning to store your vehicle for more than 6 months, please consult a company that specializes in long-term vehicle storage.

Disclaimer: There are many variations in the step-by-step procedures used when checking fluid levels or charging batteries, and varying skill levels of individuals. These instructions cannot anticipate all circumstances or provide advice and caution on each. If you are in doubt concerning your ability or have any questions, consult your local Toyota dealership and have the work performed by an experienced technician.

[08WhiteTRD]

Great write up. This is some good to know stuff. I am going to be using this soon seeing as I am getting deployed for around 5 months.

[phantom]

only thing i would add is
get some staybilt and add it before you run the engine at shutdown !

it will help keep the gas fresh !


i don't drive much and occasionally a tank will last me a bit over 6 months so i add it when i get a fill up

[river rat]

Originally Posted by phantom

only thing i would add is
get some staybilt and add it before you run the engine at shutdown !

+1 I run-in some Stabil and a litlle MMO in the tank. Otherwise, I do everything on the list.

[shook0002]

Use a battery tender. I've used them on my Mustang and quad and never had a problem with them. Get the name brand tender, they only charge when needed, cheaper ones give a continued 1.5 amp charge which will eventually cause the acid to boil out and damage the battery and your car.

[wareagle5693]

Originally Posted by phantom

i don't drive much and occasionally a tank will last me a bit over 6 months so i add it when i get a fill up

I'm lucky if a tank will last me 6 days now!