Finding the best storage option for your car

Looking for long-term or short-term storage for a motorcycle, motor home or classic car? Discover where and how you can store your valuable vehicle.

Depending on the period of time you intend to store your vehicle, and according to the type of vehicle you own, several options are available.

Storing an RV

If you own a recreational vehicle in Canada, odds are you won’t actually get to use it 12 months of the year. If you have enough space on your property, self-storage is the safest and most economical place to store it.

On the other hand, if you don’t have space or if you're rarely at home, consider storing your RV at a storage facility catering to recreational vehicles. The ideal storage facility has privacy fences, security guards, an alarm system and is monitored by camera surveillance 24/7. Trusted and secure, you can find RV storage facilities in most regions and cities across Canada.

Storing a car, a motorcycle, or an ATV

Other vehicles should be kept in a garage. You have the option of leaving them outside with covers, but this is at best, a short-term solution.

The ideal option is to keep the vehicle in a temperature-controlled storage facility. Vehicles are much better maintained during periods of non-use if they're not exposed to fluctuating temperatures, or variances in humidity levels.

Among the many facilities providing this service, you can store your vehicle at a towing company’s impound lot, at a warehouse, a private underground parking lot, or a luxury car dealership.

The costs associated with long-term indoor storage can be quite high. Ask around to see if someone you know could lend you or rent you space in their garage, provided of course that it is secure and well-maintained.

1. Adjust or temporarily cancel your registration and modify your insurance before storing your vehicle.
2. Be sure to thoroughly clean the engine and the exterior of the vehicle.
3. Fill 3/4 of the tank full with gasoline.
4. Get an oil change.
5. If your vehicle is not stored in a heated facility, fill up the windshield washer tank and check the density of the antifreeze.
6. Disconnect the battery or remove it completely, then store it in a cool, dry area.
7. If your vehicle is stored on a concrete floor, place a canvas barrier underneath the vehicle to decrease its exposure to humidity.
8. Inflate the tires slightly above the recommended pressure limit or elevate the vehicle on blocks or jacks.
9. Make sure the parking brake is disengaged, otherwise it might stick.
10. Cover your vehicle with a moisture resistant cover designed for storage.
11. Spread a few mothballs around the car to repel rodents and keep them from nibbling your seats and electrical circuits.

If you store your vehicle for longer than 12 months, you must have it inspected by a mechanic to ensure that it’s roadworthy before you can drive it again.