If you are comparing vehicle shipping companies in Cape Town, Mr Cheap Transport also offers vehicle storage in Cape Town and Johannesburg. The staff cover each car at the facility. A cover helps, but it cannot protect a weak battery, low tyre pressure, poor fluid levels, or a damp cabin. Treat storage as a maintenance event, not just a parking decision.
Match the Preparation to How Long the Car Will Sit
A few weeks need basic preparation. A stay of several months calls for a more deliberate plan.
A Few Weeks Versus Several Months
For a short stay, start with a clean car and correct tyre pressure. Take valuables with you. Make sure the battery starts strongly before you leave the car.
For longer storage, follow your vehicle maker’s instructions. Ford starts its long-term storage guidance at 30 days for some vehicles. Your model may use different requirements.
Indoor, Covered, and Outdoor Storage Change the Risks
A dry, ventilated indoor space limits exposure to sun, rain, dirt, and moisture. Outdoor storage puts more pressure on the protection around the vehicle.
Store a Clean, Dry Car, Not the Dirt It Collected
Wash the Bodywork and Remove Contaminants
Start by removing mud, road grime, bird droppings, and tree sap. Give the car enough time to dry thoroughly before storage. Your manufacturer may specify different care for paint, trim, chrome, or coatings.
Empty and Dry the Interior Properly
Food, rubbish, valuables, paperwork, and damp items should all leave the car before storage. Look through the boot, cup holders, and under the seats as well. Wet carpets and mats need to dry before you lock the car.
Prepare the Fuel, Fluids, and Battery for Inactivity
Do Not Assume an Empty Fuel Tank Is Always Better
Do not drain the tank automatically. Follow your car manual. Only use fuel treatment if the vehicle or product manufacturer approves it for your car.
Choose Between Disconnecting and Maintaining the Battery
Disconnect your car battery connection or a suitable trickle charger in some long-storage situations. Your vehicle may lose settings or need a reset after disconnection. Check the manual first. The facility also needs to allow the method you choose.
Deal With Leaks and Low Fluids Before Storage
Start with the fluid levels. Then look under and around the car for fresh leaks. Fix known problems before handover. If the car needs a service, ask your manufacturer or workshop whether you should complete it first.
Protect the Parts That Suffer When a Car Does Not Move
Reduce Tyre Flat-Spotting Without Overinflating
Use the tyre pressure your vehicle maker lists on the placard or in the manual. Do not add extra pressure without manufacturer guidance.
Michelin recommends maintaining correct pressure during storage. Its guidance also warns about flat spotting during long periods of inactivity.
Think Twice Before Leaving the Handbrake Engaged for Months
Do not assume you should keep the parking brake on throughout a long stay. Some owners ensure the parking brake releases fully during storage. Your car may require another procedure. Follow its manual and the facility’s safety rules.
Protect Rubber Seals, Wipers, and Exposed Components
Give the seals and wiper blades a clean before storage. Oils and solvents that do not suit rubber should stay away from these parts. Look for damaged paint or exposed metal. Where a care product becomes necessary, use one the manufacturer approves.
Make the Storage Environment Work for the Car
Control Moisture Before It Becomes Mould or Corrosion
Choose a dry, ventilated space where possible. Never leave wet mats, a damp boot, or trapped water around seals.
Use the Right Cover Instead of Trapping Moisture
Choose a cover that suits the vehicle and storage setting. Manufacturer guidance should determine whether you add another layer. Improvised plastic sheeting should stay off the car unless the manufacturer approves it.
Remove Things That Could Attract Pests
Take all food out of the cabin and boot. Even small crumbs need attention before the car sits unused. Do not block vents or exhaust outlets unless your manufacturer gives a specific storage procedure.
Prepare for Collection Before You Lock the Car Away
Photograph the Car Before Storage
Take clear photographs of each side, the wheels, odometer, fuel level, and existing marks. Those images give you a condition record for collection.
Leave the Right Information With the Storage Provider
The provider needs to know about alarms, immobilisers, battery arrangements, keys, starting quirks, and known mechanical issues. Leave an emergency contact as well. The same handover details matter if storage forms part of a longer relocation and you need to transport the car from Johannesburg to Cape Town after collection.
Learn What to do Before Your Car Goes on a Carrier.
Know What to Check Before Driving Away Again
Before you leave, look at the tyres, fluid levels, battery condition, warning lights, and the ground under the car. Test the brakes carefully at low speed. If something looks wrong, investigate it before driving home.
Good storage involves more than protecting the paint. Prepare the car for inactivity first. Keep a clear record of its condition. Have a restart plan ready before you leave. That gives you the best chance of collecting a car that starts, drives, and feels much as it did when you left it.
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