Everyone loves an evening drive in Dad's classic car to celebrate the arrival of summer: warm breezes, good friends, favorite songs...and bad tires?
When using car storage it's important to take the right steps so your car stays in top condition. Let's talk about how to prep your tires, where to find the right kind of storage, and what to do when you're ready to take your car out for a spin again.
Before putting your vehicle into car storage, it’s vital to clean your tires thoroughly. This process removes any dirt, grime, and road chemicals that could potentially damage the rubber over time.
Use a mild soap solution and a brush to scrub the tires gently, getting all debris cleaned off. Rinse thoroughly and allow the tires to dry completely before moving on to the next step.
A meticulous inspection of your tires is crucial before car storage. Look for the following and address any issues immediately:
Cracks: Small cracks can expand over time and compromise tire integrity, so get them taken care of before you store your car.
Punctures: Repair any punctures using a tire repair kit or consult a professional.
Uneven Wear: If you notice uneven wear, consider rotating your tires or getting alignment services done before storage.
Proper inflation is key to preventing flat spots and other tire deformities during storage. Inflate your tires to the manufacturer’s recommended pressure—avoid both over-inflation and under-inflation. Over-inflated tires may lead to uneven wear, while under-inflated tires can cause flat spots and sidewall damage.
UV rays can degrade tire rubber over time, leading to cracks and weakening. A covered storage facility is a great option for keeping your car away from direct sunlight, along with using a car cover for added protection against UV rays and dust.
Elevating your vehicle or using tire stands during car storage can prevent flat spots and tire deformation. Jack stands or wheel cradles can help distribute weight evenly and keep the tires round. This method is particularly useful if the car will be stored for several months.
If you’re storing tires off the car, be conscious of how they're arranged:
Vertically: Storing tires upright is the preferred method as it reduces the risk of warping.
Horizontally: If space constraints require horizontal storage, stack no more than four tires high and make sure to rotate the stack periodically.
For vehicles in long-term car storage, it’s important to rotate the tires or move your car slightly every few weeks. This changes the pressure points on the tires, helping to prevent flat spots and prolonging tire life.
Once you're ready to hit the road again, give your tires a thorough inspection. Check all areas of the tire, including sidewalls, and use a flashlight if necessary.
Tread Wear: Ensure the tread depth is within safe limits.
Bulging: Check for any unusual bulges that could indicate internal damage.
Cracks: Look for new cracks that may have developed during storage.
Flat-spotting: Make sure the tires have maintained their shape.
Take care of any problems that may have developed during car storage before taking any drives.
Inspect the valve stems for any wear or damage that could cause air leaks. Keep a special eye out for hardened or brittle stems. Replace faulty valve stems to maintain proper tire pressure.
Tires have date codes indicating their manufacture date. If your tires are over six years old, it may be time to replace them, as rubber compounds degrade over time regardless of tread wear.
Adjust the tire pressure back to the manufacturer’s recommended levels so you can drive safely and efficiently.
At North Texas RV & Boat Storage, we value your safety and property, not to mention your fun! We want to help keep your vehicles in top shape until your next drive. With covered units, careful security measures, 24/7 access, and excellent customer service, we're prepared to do just that. So get in touch with us today.