Storing a car might seem like a straightforward way to keep it safe, but there are more costs involved than you might expect. Beyond the basic storage fees, there are several surprising expenses that can add up over time. Here are 15 unexpected costs to consider when keeping your car in storage.
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Monthly Storage Fees
The most obvious cost associated with storing a car is the monthly storage fee. These fees can range from $50 to over $300 per month, depending on the facility. If you opt for a climate-controlled unit or specialized vehicle storage, expect the cost to rise even higher. It’s essential to factor in these recurring expenses over the duration of storage.
Insurance Costs
Maintaining insurance coverage is crucial, even when your car is in storage. Typically, comprehensive coverage is needed to protect against theft, vandalism, or damage while the vehicle is parked. Although you might pay lower rates than when the car is on the road, it remains a monthly or yearly expense to consider. Skimping on insurance could lead to significant financial losses in case of an incident.
Battery Maintenance
Car batteries can lose their charge if left idle for too long, leading to unexpected replacement costs. To prevent this, you might invest in a trickle charger or battery maintainer, though these devices have their own price tag. Should the battery die, replacing it could be an additional expense you didn’t anticipate. Regular maintenance of the battery is essential to avoid these costs.
Tire Degradation
When a car sits in storage for extended periods, its tires can develop flat spots or begin to degrade. This damage often necessitates the purchase of new tires, which can be a significant and unexpected expense. To prevent this, regularly checking tire pressure or using tire cradles is advisable, although these solutions also add to the overall cost. Proper tire care is vital to preserving the vehicle’s condition.
Oil Changes
Oil can degrade over time due to moisture and contaminants, even when the car isn’t being driven. If you plan to store your car for several months, it’s wise to perform an oil change both before and after storage. These maintenance steps are crucial to prevent engine damage, but they do add to the ongoing costs of keeping a car in storage. Neglecting oil changes can lead to much higher repair bills down the road.
Pest Control
Stored vehicles often attract rodents and insects, which can cause significant damage to wiring and interiors. Implementing pest control measures such as traps, repellents, or professional services is crucial but comes with an extra cost. Ignoring this risk could lead to much higher repair costs later on. Regular checks for pests can save you from unexpected expenses.
Covering the Vehicle
To protect your car from dust, debris, and moisture while in storage, investing in a high-quality car cover is essential. Premium covers can be pricey, especially those tailored for specific makes and models. However, this upfront cost is necessary to avoid potential damage to the paint and bodywork. A good cover can save you from more expensive repairs or detailing services later.
Security Measures
Storing a car in a secure location may require additional security measures, such as alarms, surveillance cameras, or paying for a facility with enhanced security features. These measures, while necessary for peace of mind, add to the overall storage cost. For high-value vehicles, these investments are often non-negotiable. Protecting your asset from theft or vandalism is worth the extra expense.
Humidity Control
High humidity levels can cause mold, mildew, and rust to form on or inside a stored vehicle. Dehumidifiers or moisture-absorbing products are needed to maintain the proper environment, but they come with a cost. Over time, the need to keep humidity in check adds to the financial burden of car storage. Without these measures, your car could suffer extensive and expensive damage.
Periodic Inspections
To ensure everything remains in good condition, periodic inspections of the vehicle are a must. If you can’t do this yourself, hiring someone or paying for a facility that offers inspection services becomes necessary. Regular inspections help catch potential issues early but contribute to the storage costs. Skipping inspections might save money upfront but could lead to more significant expenses later.
Renewal of Vehicle Registration
In certain regions, vehicle registration must be maintained even if the car is not being driven. Keeping registration up-to-date is another expense that can add up, particularly if the car remains in storage for a long time. Failing to renew the registration can result in fines or complications when you decide to drive the car again. It’s a cost that’s easily overlooked but essential to consider.
Cleaning Services
Dust and grime can accumulate on a car stored for an extended period, requiring periodic cleaning both inside and out. While you might do this yourself, many prefer to use professional detailing services before and after storage. This is a necessary expense to maintain the vehicle’s condition and value. A clean car not only looks better but is also less likely to suffer from long-term damage.
Corrosion Prevention
Rust and corrosion can develop on metal parts if a car is stored improperly. Anti-corrosion sprays and treatments are available but add to the overall cost. These treatments are especially crucial for long-term storage, particularly in humid environments. Proper corrosion prevention can save you from costly repairs when it’s time to take the car out of storage.
Fluids Check and Replacement
Brake fluid, coolant, and other vital fluids can degrade over time, necessitating replacement after extended storage. This maintenance ensures the vehicle is safe to drive when it’s taken out of storage. While often overlooked, this is another cost to add to the list of storage expenses. Regular fluid checks can prevent more significant problems from arising.
Depreciation
Although storing a car can protect it from wear and tear, the vehicle will still depreciate over time. This financial loss is less about immediate costs but can impact the car’s overall value when it’s eventually sold. Understanding this hidden cost is crucial when considering long-term storage. Depreciation is inevitable, and storing a car doesn’t stop it from happening.
This article originally appeared in MyCarMakesNoise.
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