Leaving a car sitting for a few days is one thing. It is different to leave it parked for a few weeks or months. You can leave a vehicle in good condition and come back to find it has problems with its battery, tyres, paint or interior.
This is even more important in Dubai. Heat, dust and harsh sunlight can take a beating on a vehicle left in one spot for an extended period. Whether you’re traveling, relocating overseas, waiting for a vehicle shipment, or just don’t need a car for a while, proper preparation can save you from unnecessary repairs later.
So, what are the proper steps to take before putting a car in long-term storage?
1. Start With a Thorough Clean
It might seem like a waste of time to wash a car you are about to put into storage, but it is one of the easiest things you can do.
Dust, dirt, food particles and other residue left on the exterior or interior of the car can lead to problems over time. Properly clean the outside and focus on areas where dirt tends to build up. The interior should be free of food, drinks, rubbish and personal belongings.
Cleaning the vehicle before putting it into covered or indoor storage also makes it easier to inspect the car when it is returned.
2. Test the Battery
If a vehicle is not used for a long time, the battery can discharge. Modern cars can also drain a small amount of power while they’re parked.
If you want to store it longer, ask the storage provider or a qualified technician how best to protect the battery. Depending on the vehicle and how it’s stored, this may involve disconnecting the battery or using a suitable battery maintainer.
Just because a battery was working normally before the car was stored, don’t think it will be fine.
3. Watch the Tyres
Tyres can lose pressure if a vehicle is stationary for a long time. Prior to storing, check the pressure and ensure it is at the manufacturer’s recommended level.
When you collect the car, check the tyres again before you drive it.
4. Protect the Car from Dubai Environment
And that is why the choice of storage location matters.
If a vehicle is left outside for months, it is exposed to sunlight, dust and high temperature. Covered or enclosed facilities offer a greater degree of protection than open parking areas.
For owners of luxury, classic or otherwise valuable vehicles, the environment in which the vehicle is stored can be an especially important consideration. Don’t assume that every storage provider offers the same conditions, ask what protection the facility provides.
5. Storage Photograph Before
This is an easy step that is often missed.
Take clear pictures of the vehicle before you hand it over for storage. Photograph the outside from multiple angles and note any scratches, dents or other marks. You can also take a picture of the dashboard and mileage.
If the storage company checks its own vehicles, compare your photos with their condition report.
It is also a good reference for both sides to know the condition the vehicle was in when it was collected.
Choosing The Right Car Storage Facility
Getting the car ready is only half the battle. It is also important where you keep it.
If you’re looking for reliable car storage in Dubai, it’s worth comparing facilities carefully and checking what level of security, protection and access they provide.
· Is the vehicle stored indoors, outdoors or sheltered?
· Access controlled?
· Is the facility CCTV monitored?
· What are the fire protection measures?
· Do you have a climate-controlled storage?
· How are vehicles received and released?
· Is there a pick-up and delivery service available from the company?
· Do minimum storage periods apply?
· What if you want the car back sooner than you thought?
Don’t pick a facility based only on price. You may not get the level of protection your vehicle needs with a cheaper alternative.
Indoor and Outdoor Car Storage
There is no standard answer for all vehicles.
If cost and space are your main considerations, then outdoor storage is a good option for vehicles that don’t need extra protection from the elements.
Covered storage is less expensive than fully enclosed storage and it provides more protection from direct sun and other outdoor elements.
Indoor storage offers more physical and environmental protection and may be a better option for cars that will sit unused for a longer period.
For valuable or specialist vehicles ask if climate-controlled car storage is available and what conditions are maintained?
What If the Car Is Being Shipped?
Long-term storage is sometimes connected with another logistics requirement.
For example, someone relocating overseas may need to store a vehicle temporarily while arrangements are made to ship it. A business may also need somewhere to store vehicles after importation and before onward delivery.
In these cases, it may be useful to choose a provider who can manage both storage and vehicle collection or liaise with the appropriate freight forwarder.
That can cut down the number of separate arrangements you have to make.
Final Thoughts
Long term car storage in Dubai need not be complicated, yet an unprepared car left parked may cause problems that could have been avoided.
All of these: a clean car, properly checked tyres and battery, appropriate protection from the environment, and good condition records can make a difference. Above all, choose a storage facility based on what your vehicle needs, not merely the least expensive storage option.
A little time spent preparing your car if it is going to be off the road for a few weeks or months, and asking the right questions before you book storage, can make getting back on the road much easier.
