Don’t Let These Vehicle Storage Myths Cost You Thousands in Damage

When it comes to storing your prized vehicle, misinformation can be more damaging than neglect. Whether you’re a collector with an exotic car or a boat owner preparing for winter storage, falling for common storage myths could leave you facing expensive repairs and diminished vehicle value. Let’s separate fact from fiction and explore the misconceptions that could be costing you money.

Myth #1: Always Engage the Parking Brake During Long-Term Storage

One of the most persistent myths in vehicle storage is that you should always set the parking brake when storing your car. Even though engaging your parking brake is almost always recommended when your car is parked, long-term storage is an exception to the rule. On the flip side, if you are storing your car or not driving it for long periods, do not engage your parking brake to avoid your parking brake seizing, or your brake pads rusting to your rotors.

Leaving your car parked for extended periods with the parking brake on may cause your parking brake to rust in place, especially if the car is exposed to elements like road salt and water. When this type of parking brake-jamming corrosion occurs, many drivers find themselves with no option but to call a tow truck! Instead, if you’re worried that your car might roll while in storage, put special blocks (called wheel chocks) behind the wheels instead.

Myth #2: Store Your Vehicle with an Empty Gas Tank

Many vehicle owners believe they should drain their gas tank before storage to prevent fuel-related problems. This is dangerously wrong. Don’t store your car with an empty gas tank! A full tank makes it harder for moisture to accumulate inside, which may help prevent the problems mentioned above.

Humidity condenses in the gas tank like drops of “sweat” on an icy glass of lemonade — eventually dripping down and into your fuel. These water droplets contaminate the gas inside your car, which could lead to decreased power during acceleration, engine sputtering, and damage to the fuel injection system. Replacing a fuel injection system can cost $1,000 or more in parts and labor, depending on your car model.

Myth #3: Outdoor Storage is Just as Good as Indoor

Some vehicle owners believe that a good car cover provides adequate protection for outdoor storage. While covers help, they’re no substitute for proper indoor storage. Storing a vehicle indoors protects your car from wet weather, cold weather, and direct sunlight, which can cause paint and interior fabrics to fade. Storing a vehicle indoors also protects it from scratches and dings from other cars or passersby.

According to used-car resale estimates, exterior fading and minor corrosion can reduce a car’s market value up to 10% after exposure. For Long Island residents seeking professional auto storage long island solutions, climate-controlled facilities provide the ultimate protection against these costly issues.

Myth #4: You Don’t Need to Worry About Tire Pressure

Another dangerous myth is that tire pressure doesn’t matter during storage. When your car sits stationary for a long period of time, flat spots can start to form in the tires. Essentially, the tires develop a type of memory that prevents them from being completely round. This phenomenon causes vibration when you drive the car after storage.

Flat spots can begin to form after a month of a car sitting parked — and they’re made worse by low tire pressures. In many cases, driving a car for a while after storage can remove the flat spots. But often, the damage can be permanent, requiring a new set of tires. Before storing your car, inflate the tires to manufacturer-recommended levels to help delay or even prevent flat spotting.

Myth #5: Starting Your Car Periodically During Storage Helps

Many well-meaning vehicle owners believe they should start their stored vehicle every few weeks to “keep it running.” This is actually counterproductive. Some people make the mistake of starting their vehicles every week or so. Just letting the engine run does nothing to help maintain the car and only contaminates the engine oil.

Instead of periodic starts, proper preparation is key. If you rarely use your vehicle, the alternator may not fully recharge the battery, leading to a dead battery or sulfation over time. Instead, aim for a 30‑minute drive weekly to keep the battery healthy and fluid circulation steady. However, if your vehicle is in proper long-term storage, a battery tender is the better solution.

Myth #6: Any Storage Facility Will Do

Not all storage facilities are created equal, especially when it comes to protecting valuable vehicles. When vehicles sit idle without protection, fluids settle, batteries drain, and corrosion forms, even indoors if ventilation is poor. Over months, this can lead to avoidable repair bills.

Professional storage facilities like Legacy Motors and Marine in Port Jefferson Station understand these challenges. Based in Port Jefferson Station, NY, we recognized that collectors in Nassau and Suffolk Counties needed a storage solution that matched the caliber of their investments. Every climate-controlled bay, every security protocol, and every service offering reflects our commitment to treating your prized possessions with the same care you do. Today, Legacy Motors and Marine serves discerning collectors throughout Long Island who refuse to compromise on quality, security, or expertise when it comes to their most valued assets.

The Reality of Proper Vehicle Storage

Proper vehicle storage involves much more than just parking and walking away. Clean the car, add fuel stabilizer, protect the battery, inflate tires, avoid the parking brake, and cover it; EVs should be left at between 40% and 60% charge with storage mode on.

One of the most overlooked perks of professional storage is how it affects insurance coverage and liability. Many insurers recognize secure storage as a protective measure and may offer lower premiums for vehicles kept in gated or monitored facilities. Additionally, when your vehicle is off the street and out of public access, your liability exposure drops, especially valuable for businesses managing fleets.

Protecting Your Investment

Your vehicle represents a significant investment, and proper storage is essential for maintaining its value and performance. The right storage setup does more than declutter your driveway. It helps protect one of your most valuable assets from theft, damage, and depreciation.

Don’t let storage myths put your investment at risk. Whether you’re storing a classic car, exotic vehicle, or luxury boat, understanding the facts about proper storage can save you thousands in repairs and preserve your vehicle’s value for years to come. Professional storage facilities with climate control, security systems, and maintenance services provide the comprehensive protection your valuable assets deserve.