Before storing a car, check its owner’s manual and plan around how long it will sit, the climate, and the vehicle’s battery and transmission. AAA’s 2020 storage guide uses under 45 days for its common shorter-storage tips and adds measures for longer storage; 45 days is a useful guidepost from that article, not a universal engineering cutoff. These ten steps cover the preparation and the checks to make before driving again.
1. Check the storage period and your owner’s manual
Write down when you expect to park the car and when you expect to use it again. Storage needs change with duration, temperature, humidity, and vehicle design. AAA’s extended-storage guidance groups common advice for periods under 45 days and recommends additional steps beyond that. Treat this as a planning distinction, not a rule that applies to every car.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Use the manual for vehicle-specific instructions on fluids, tire pressure, battery care, transmission position, lifting points, and any systems that need special handling. AAA notes that general infrequent-driving recommendations may differ from the owner’s manual; its infrequent-driving guidance addresses regular use, not a required pre-storage drive.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errors2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2. Take care of maintenance that is due
Do not put off maintenance that is already due simply because the car will be parked. AAA recommends changing overdue oil before storage and addressing brake-fluid or coolant service if it is due. Check the levels and condition of the fluids, and follow the vehicle manufacturer’s schedule and specifications. AAA’s pre-trip maintenance checklist also advises checking key fluids before a drive.
#1 Best Overall
- Multi-Scene Parking Protection: This car cover measures 208 x 73 inches in length and width. Featuring stretchable fabric, it fits vehicles with up to 5 inches of length and width variation. It works perfectly for driveway parking, apartment lots, street parking, and private garages, supporting outdoor open-air parking and indoor storage.
- Upgraded Fabric: Constructed from high-toughness tear-resistant polyester Oxford fabric with UV protective coating to slow aging and fading. It offers excellent water repellency to resist damage caused by moisture and low temperatures and extend the car cover’s service life.
- Humanized Practical Design: Multiple adjustable wind straps hold the cover firmly against strong winds and prevent slipping or blowing off; reflective markings boost nighttime visibility to avoid scratches; the front marker helps identify front and rear for easy installation; a storage bag is included for tidy storage.
- Four-Season All-Weather Protection: Shields your vehicle year-round from outdoor hazards: spring pollen, bird droppings and tree sap; summer intense UV rays, dust and showers; autumn fallen leaves and acid rain; winter frost and snow to protect your car paint finish.
- Brand Support & Usage Tips: Contact Avecrew customer service for support if you have questions before or after purchase. Important Note: Do not cover wet vehicles; wait for newly repainted surfaces to fully cure before installing the cover.
If a warning light is on, a fluid is leaking, or the car has a known mechanical problem, get it assessed rather than assuming storage will solve it.
3. Prepare the fuel for the time off the road
For extended storage, AAA recommends filling the tank and adding a fuel stabilizer according to the product label and the vehicle manual. A fuller tank can reduce the amount of air and moisture inside it, while stabilizer is intended to help preserve fuel during storage. AAA’s 2020 guide suggests driving five to ten miles after adding stabilizer so treated fuel circulates through the system; that is its recommendation, not a universal requirement.
Use only a product compatible with your vehicle and fuel, and follow its dosage and safety instructions. AAA names STA-BIL as one example, not as the only suitable product. Its winter-storage advice also recommends a full tank and stabilizer.
Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Rank #2
- Size:Fit Sedan-Length(194"-206"),NOTE: Pls measure before buying the cover.
- Excellent Material: New upgraded high-quality materials, more wear-resistant and tear-resistant,Protect your car for all weather.it will defense against dirt, tree sap and birds droppings and so on.
- WATERPROOF&ANIT-UV:The fabric could Highly waterproof.UV resistant layer protects the car cover from fading,extends service life.
- Wind-Proof Design:Elasticized hem and three fixed buckles help cover against to strong wind，protect your car cover in heavy wind from blowing off.
- Satisfied service:If you have any problems when you receive it or during use, please contact us anytime. We will do our best to solve it at your first time（Also attached storage bag).
4. Choose a battery plan before parking
A battery can lose charge while a car is unused. AAA recommends a maintenance-type charger that stays connected during storage. Before connecting one, confirm that the charger suits the battery type and that the vehicle manufacturer permits the setup; use the charger’s instructions and a safe, appropriate outlet.
Disconnecting the battery is another option mentioned in AAA’s winter guidance, but it is not right for every vehicle. Disconnecting may erase settings or affect systems that need to be reset, and some vehicles have specific battery procedures. Follow the manual rather than choosing between a maintainer and disconnection by guesswork. Check that the battery terminals are secure and clean before storage.
5. Set tire pressure within the vehicle and tire limits
AAA’s extended-storage article suggests adding 10 psi above normal pressure to help forestall flat spots. Its winter-storage article instead says to air up tires without exceeding the tire’s maximum inflation. These are source-specific recommendations, not a universal instruction to add 10 psi: check the owner’s manual and the tire’s markings, and never exceed the applicable limit.
Rank #3
- BEST FIT, BEST PROTECTION. Find your vehicle in the VEHICLE SIZE CHART (Images 4 - 6) and select the recommended size for a secure, custom-like fit. EzyShade car covers are extensively tested to achieve a secure, custom-like fit for every listed vehicle, backed by our Great Fit Guarantee.
- ADVANCED PROTECTIVE MATERIALS. Premium machine-cut, lightweight, multi-layer materials provide outstanding weather protection, paint protection and durability. For optimal performance, follow the included instructions and ensure the cover is properly fitted before use.
- ALL-WEATHER DEFENCE. Waterproof, wind-resistant, UV-protective, snowproof, dustproof and scratch-resistant materials help protect your vehicle in all seasons. For maximum weather protection, always secure all front, middle and rear straps, especially during windy conditions.
- FEATURES THAT WORK. Three adjustable straps with click-tight buckles help keep the cover securely in place, while reflective strips improve night visibility. Also includes a side door zipper, specially designed mirror pockets for a neat fit (A & S Sizes only), cable lock compatible grommet holes, a generous storage bag and an antenna protection kit.
- EXTENDED WARRANTY. VIP SERVICE. Every EzyShade car cover is backed by our Great Fit Guarantee, generous warranty and responsive customer support. Follow the included fitting and care instructions for the best long-term performance, and contact us anytime if you need assistance.
For long storage, you can also ask whether periodic movement, suitable tire-storage pads, or lifting the vehicle at manufacturer-approved points makes sense for your car and location. Do not use a jack or stands unless you know the correct lifting points and can support the vehicle safely.
Recommended Free Tools
6. Park securely without relying on the parking brake
AAA advises against leaving the parking brake engaged during storage because conditions can cause it to freeze, components to corrode together, or brake shoes to distort. That advice depends on the car, climate, and parking situation, so check the manual and make sure the vehicle cannot roll.
AAA’s guidance is to place an automatic transmission in Park. For a manual transmission, it advises first or reverse gear and wheel chocks. Use chocks only on a stable, suitable surface and follow the vehicle manual; the safe arrangement can depend on the slope and the specific car.
Rank #4
- Fitment: Fit Car Size: 183''L x 70''W x 59''H (approx) / Car Length ( 178~183 inch ), Alfa-Romeo Giulia /BMW-3 Series Saloon,4 Series Coupé,4 Series Gran Coupé /Mercedes-Benz A-Class Saloon,CLK,SL,GT Coupé /Honda- Civic/Corolla Saloon /Toyota-Prius,Prius Plug-in Hybrid
- Waterproof & Weatherproof: NEVERLAND car covers feature an outer layer with a thickened waterproof coating that withstands heavy rain and prevents ice and snow from seeping through. The inner layer is made of soft fleece material to protect your vehicle's paintwork from dust, hail, and UV damage. Even in extreme weather, it provides protection for your beloved vehicle.
- Driver Door Zipper ,Elastic Hem Type & Wheel Fixing Strap: 1)Driver Door Zipper for Easy Access. 2) All four tires can be fixed to Protect Your Auto Cover not Blown Away by Heavy Wind. 3) Reflective Stripes Make you car stay in safe
- Windproof Straps & Bottom Elastic: The outdoor car cover comes with a full set of adjustable heavy-duty wind straps and a bottom elastic cord. These straps anchor the cover at the front, rear, and sides, ensuring a snug, custom fit that won’t shift or rub against your paint—even during windy days. Easy to fasten and adjust for peace of mind.
- What you get: 1 x Sedan Car Cover, comes with a FREE storage bag. The full car cover is made from lightweight yet durable material and can be quickly folded into a compact size, which you can effortlessly store it in your trunk, closet, or garage. No bulky hassle, just simple storage and quick access whenever you need it.
Before leaving, raise the wiper arms if the vehicle and wiper design allow it, as AAA suggests, to keep the blades from sticking to the glass. Do not force an arm or leave it in a position that could damage it.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.7. Wash, dry, and clean the car
For storage beyond 45 days, AAA recommends washing and waxing the exterior and cleaning the cabin. Remove dirt, food, and rubbish, and make sure the vehicle is dry before covering or closing it up. A clean interior is less inviting to pests, while trapped moisture can encourage odors or damage.
The Tool Desk
Outbyte PC Repair FREERepair Windows errors before they cause bigger problemsFix Now →Outbyte Driver Updater FREEFix the driver behind crashes, sound loss and screen glitchesFind Drivers →Check that the carpets and other damp-prone areas are dry. If the car has been exposed to road salt or contaminants, clean them off before storage rather than leaving them on the finish.
Best Value
- BEST FIT, BEST PROTECTION. Find your vehicle in the VEHICLE SIZE CHART (Images 4 - 6) and select the recommended size for a secure, custom-like fit. EzyShade car covers are extensively tested to achieve a secure, custom-like fit for every listed vehicle, backed by our Great Fit Guarantee.
- ADVANCED PROTECTIVE MATERIALS. Premium machine-cut, lightweight, multi-layer materials provide outstanding weather protection, paint protection and durability. For optimal performance, follow the included instructions and ensure the cover is properly fitted before use.
- ALL-WEATHER DEFENCE. Waterproof, wind-resistant, UV-protective, snowproof, dustproof and scratch-resistant materials help protect your vehicle in all seasons. For maximum weather protection, always secure all front, middle and rear straps, especially during windy conditions.
- FEATURES THAT WORK. Three adjustable straps with click-tight buckles help keep the cover securely in place, while reflective strips improve night visibility. Also includes a side door zipper, specially designed mirror pockets for a neat fit (A & S Sizes only), cable lock compatible grommet holes, a generous storage bag and an antenna protection kit.
- EXTENDED WARRANTY. VIP SERVICE. Every EzyShade car cover is backed by our Great Fit Guarantee, generous warranty and responsive customer support. Follow the included fitting and care instructions for the best long-term performance, and contact us anytime if you need assistance.
8. Choose a dry storage place or a breathable cover
AAA prefers indoor storage in a cool, dark, dry place. If that is not available, consider a suitable portable structure or a quality breathable, multi-layer car cover. A cover should fit the vehicle and allow moisture to escape; avoid materials that trap dampness against the paint.
Desiccant packs may help where significant moisture exposure is likely. AAA cautions that they can stain surfaces, so contain them rather than placing them directly on upholstery or trim. They are a conditional measure, not a substitute for choosing the driest practical storage location.
9. Take rodent precautions when local conditions warrant
If rodents are a realistic risk where the car will be stored, block accessible entry points such as exhaust and intake openings with a method that is clearly visible and easy to remove. Do not push anything deep into an opening or use a blockage that could be forgotten.
AAA says evidence for dryer sheets and mothballs as rodent deterrents is difficult to come by, so do not rely on them as a proven fix. Choose precautions suited to the storage location and check the car for signs of pests before use.
10. Leave yourself a written return-to-service checklist
Record what you did and anything that must be undone before starting the car. AAA recommends keeping a list of storage-preparation steps. Include any openings you blocked, battery disconnection or charger setup, tire changes, and other temporary measures. Put the list somewhere you will see it before driving.
- Remove every exhaust or intake blockage and any temporary cover or reminder tag.
- Reconnect the battery if you disconnected it, following the vehicle’s procedure; remove a maintainer if the car is leaving storage.
- Return tire pressures to the vehicle’s specified operating pressures before driving.
- Check the area around and beneath the car, then inspect tires, fluid levels, and for signs of leaks or animal activity.
- Confirm the brakes and other controls operate normally before entering traffic. If something seems wrong, have the vehicle checked.
AAA spokesperson Mark Jenkins has warned that an unused car may be vulnerable to battery, brake, and tire problems. A deliberate check before the first drive helps catch issues that developed while it was parked.
Quick Recap
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
