Storing a car for weeks, months, or even longer is common in Nigeria maybe you are traveling abroad, the car is seasonal, or fuel scarcity keeps it parked. If you just leave it sitting, problems pile up fast: flat spots on tires, dead battery, mold inside, rust underneath, or chewed wires from rodents. The good news is that with straightforward preparation, most of these issues are avoidable. The steps are the same whether you are storing a Toyota Corolla in Port Harcourt or a Honda Civic in Abuja. Done right, the car starts easily when you return, and the interior does not smell like a swamp. Here is how to do it properly.
Clean the Car Thoroughly Inside and Out
Start with a full wash and detail. Dirt left on the body attracts moisture and promotes rust, while interior grime breeds mold in humid weather. Wash the exterior, paying extra attention to wheel wells and underbody use a hose to flush out mud and salt that accelerate corrosion. Dry it completely to avoid water spots. Clean the interior: vacuum seats and carpets, wipe down surfaces, remove any food or trash that attracts pests. If the seats are fabric, use a fabric cleaner; for leather, clean and condition to prevent cracking from dryness. Open all doors and the trunk for a day to air it out. A clean car is less likely to develop odors or attract insects during storage.
Protect the Exterior from Elements
Park in the most sheltered spot available—a garage is best, but a carport or even under a solid roof helps. If outdoors is the only option, use a breathable, waterproof car cover (not plastic sheeting traps condensation and causes rust). Choose a light-colored cover to reflect heat. Cover the windshield with a sunshade to prevent dashboard cracking. Wax the paint before storage to add a protective layer against UV rays and bird droppings. For extra protection in coastal areas, apply a rust-inhibiting spray to the underbody and exhaust system. These steps shield the car from sun fade, dust buildup, and rain that seeps into seams.
Stabilize Fluids and Prevent Degradation
Fuel goes bad when it sits. Old petrol turns gummy and clogs injectors or carburetors. Fill the tank to full (minimizes air space where condensation forms) and add a fuel stabilizer (available at auto shops for ₦2,000–₦5,000). Run the engine for 10 minutes to circulate it. For very long storage (over 6 months), consider draining the tank or using a higher dose of stabilizer. Change the engine oil and filter before storage old oil forms sludge when it sits. Coolant should be fresh; top up or flush if it is due. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time change it if it is more than two years old to avoid corrosion inside the lines.
Handle the Battery and Tires
Batteries discharge slowly even when the car is off. Disconnect the negative terminal to stop parasitic drain from the clock or alarm. For longer storage, remove the battery and keep it on a trickle charger (₦10,000–₦20,000) in a cool place. Tires develop flat spots when the car sits in one position. Inflate them to the maximum sidewall pressure (usually 40–44 PSI) to reduce this. If possible, park on wooden planks or move the car every 2–4 weeks to shift weight. Overinflation prevents flat spots without harming the tires.
Prevent Rodents and Mold
Rodents love warm engine bays and chew wires, hoses, and insulation. Park in a clean area, avoid leaving food inside, and place mothballs or rodent repellent pouches near the engine and cabin. Open the hood occasionally to air it out. For mold, keep the interior dry leave windows slightly cracked if secure, or use silica gel packs and dehumidifier bags inside. Run the AC for 10 minutes monthly (if possible) to circulate air and dry the evaporator.
Final Checks Before and After Storage
Cover the exhaust tip to block pests. Place the car in gear (manual) or Park (automatic) with the parking brake off to avoid brake seizure. Note the storage date and mileage. When you return, check fluids, inflate tires to normal pressure, reconnect the battery, and start the engine gently. Let it idle for 10–15 minutes, then drive slowly to circulate oil. Change oil if it sat over 6 months.Proper storage keeps your car in good shape so it starts easily and runs well when you need it again. These steps are simple, inexpensive, and prevent most common storage problems. Do them before you leave, and your car will be ready when you return.