Keeping your car in your garage or another space for a long period may be necessary if you are about to be deployed, going on vacation, or only driving your car seasonally. Learning how to prep your Mitsubishi for long-term storage can help you avoid damage to the paint job and engine, and even help you preserve the value of your car. First, you will want to choose a good long-term storage space. Your garage at home is best for its convenient location, but you may also choose to store your vehicle in a climate-controlled facility or in a family friend's shed. Whichever option you choose, try to make sure your car storage location will protect your vehicle from extremely hot or cold weather. If you have no other choice but to store your vehicle outside, then you should invest in a high-quality car cover. Ideally, you should buy a car cover made from weatherproof material that will keep out dust, dirt, rain, snow, tree sap, and other debris. The best car covers are fitted and offer UV protection. Try to park your car in a safe location, which means avoiding parking under trees that could drop branches in storms. Fill the Tank Even though you won't be driving your car for a long time, your vehicle will still benefit from a full tank of gas. Not only does this make it easier to drive your car when you're ready, but it also protects your fuel tank by preventing moisture build-up. If you plan to keep your car stored for more than a month, using a fuel stabilizer is a good idea to prevent gas deterioration for up to a year. Top Up Fluids If you plan to store your car for longer than a month, then it's a good idea to top up the motor oil in your engine. Motor oil deteriorates in about six months, so your first task when you take your car out of storage may be a routine oil service at your local dealer. Clean the Car Even if you store your car in a climate-controlled facility or under a fitted car cover, you should clean your vehicle thoroughly before long-term storage. Debris left on your car from bugs, bird droppings, tree sap, and water can damage your paint job if left too long, so washing your car right before you store it can prevent paint damage. Cleaning the wheels, vacuuming the interior, and waxing your car are also good steps. Long-term car storage means planning for the future to preserve the appearance and performance of your vehicle. Contact Banister Mitsubishi-Hampton in Hampton, VA to schedule pre-storage service for your vehicle today.