How to Store Your Motorcycle or Car during Long Vacations

When we go on a long vacation, we have to leave our favorite car or bike in the garage at home. If the car or bike is unused for a long time, or if it is not stored properly, several problems can arise. Usually, various mechanical complications can arise, including dirt accumulation, engine not starting, rust, dead battery, flat tire, rat or insect infestation, etc. These problems can cause you additional expenses and hassle.

Maintaining some simple things before going on a long vacation will keep your vehicle safe and efficient. This blog discusses in detail how to store your motorcycle or car before a vacation.

How to store your vehicle when going on a long vacation

If the car or bike is unused for a long time, the tire pressure decreases, the battery dies, and various components can be damaged. Therefore, it is very important to store your vehicle properly when going on a long vacation.

1. Clean and lubricate your car or bike

Wash and wipe the car or bike thoroughly. Vacuum the inside of the car thoroughly. When completely dry, use lubricant on the chain, hinges, and various joints. You can apply wax to the outside of the vehicle; this will prevent dust and rust.

2. Check the vehicle's engine oil, filter, and fluid

Change the engine oil when going on a long vacation. Old engine oil can accumulate and damage the engine. Clean or replace the air filter. Check the brake fluid, coolant, transmission fluid, etc.

3. Keep the vehicle's fuel tank full

Keep the fuel tank of the car or bike full. If the tank is empty or half-full for a long time, condensation will form inside, and rust will occur. For fuel-injected systems, the stabilizer is optional but recommended for storage beyond 2 months.

4. Disconnect the battery

If the car or bike is not driven for a long time, the battery may go down. Remove the motorbike battery and keep it in a dry place. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the car battery. If the battery is charged every 15/20 days, you will find the battery in an active state as soon as you start the vehicle.

5. Maintain the air pressure in the tires

If the vehicle is stationary in the same place for a long time, flat spots form in the tires. So increase the tire pressure a little. If possible, raise it high with a jack so that it does not touch the ground.

6. Check the brakes and clutch

If you are on vacation for a long time, do not lift the parking brake or handbrake of the car, as this may cause the brake pads to get stuck. In this case, you can block it with a wooden block or wheel chock. Keep the motorbike on a center stand.

7. Keep your vehicle in a safe, shady place with a cover

If you are going on a long vacation, keep your vehicle in a shady, dry place. If you keep it in a closed garage, a simple cover is enough. If you keep it in an open, ventilated place, use a good-quality waterproof cover to protect it from dust, sand, and rain.

8. Prevent insects, rats, etc.

Use naphthalene or rat-repellent spray to prevent wiring from damage. Cover the air filter and exhaust pipe to prevent rats. Clean under the car floor cover, make sure there is nothing perishable.

Final Thoughts

Don't start your car right after returning from vacation. First, check the vehicle's tire pressure, battery condition, coolant level, etc. Then start the engine and warm it up for a few minutes. Proper care will keep your hobby vehicle in good condition for a long time and will also save you from unexpected expenses.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. How long should you store your car or bike for a vacation?

Understanding the environmental conditions, prepare for full storage if you are going on vacation for more than 4-5 weeks.

2. Can the fuel tank be left empty if you are going on vacation for a long time?

No, keep the fuel tank of your car or bike full. For fuel-injected systems, the stabilizer is optional but recommended for storage beyond 2 months.

3. How should you take care of your battery if you are going on a long vacation?

If your car or bike is not driven for a long time, the battery may go down. Remove the motorbike battery and store it in a dry place. Disconnect the negative (-) terminal of the car battery.

4. Should I change the engine oil and coolant of my vehicle if I go on a long vacation?

Change the engine oil if I go on a long vacation. It is better to change the coolant and other fluids if they are too old.

5. Can I drive my car or bike immediately after returning from vacation?

No. After returning from vacation, first check the tire pressure, battery, coolant level, fluid level, etc. Then start the engine and warm it up for a few minutes.