There are many different reasons why individuals choose to place their BMWs in long term storage. Perhaps they are in the military and are being deployed. Maybe they finally saved up the money to take that two month long vacation in the Bahamas. No matter the reason, though, there are a number of things that must be done to prepare the car for storage.
There are many different reasons why individuals choose to place their BMWs in long term storage. Perhaps they are in the military and are being deployed. Maybe they finally saved up the money to take that two month long vacation in the Bahamas. No matter the reason, though, there are a number of things that must be done to prepare the car for storage.
If the car is simply left in a garage or on the street for an extended period of time, many of the BMW Parts, like the engine or battery, may be dead or damaged by the time the owner returns. In addition, it may be infested with rodents and the tyres may be ruined.
If you are planning to place your BMW in storage for a month or so, there are certain steps you can take to not only ensure the car will start when you return, but also that the storage doesn’t shorten the life of certain car parts, like the engine.
How to Place Your BMW in Storage
Clean it- While it might seem a little counterintuitive to wash the BMW before putting it away for months, it is actually a step that cannot be overlooked. Bird droppings and water stains that aren’t removed from the car can quickly damage the paint while in storage. During the wash, take care to remove any tar grease, or mud from the wheels and fenders as well.
- Oil Change- If the car is only going to be in storage for a couple of weeks, don’t worry about changing the oil. However, if it will be in storage for more than 30 days, the oil needs changed to prevent certain BMW parts, like the engine, from becoming damaged by contaminants in used engine oil.
- Fill the Tank- Before storing the BMW for 30 days or more, fill up the fuel tank. This prevents moisture from accumulating and keeps the tank’s seals from becoming too dry. Make sure to purchase a fuel stabiliser, however, to prevent the fuel from deteriorating before you return.
- Charge it- One of the most important BMW parts is the battery; without it, the BMW can’t function. When left unattended for a month or longer, it can lose its charge. When placing the BMW in storage, make arrangements to have someone start the car and drive it for about 15 minutes every two weeks. This will not only keep the charge of the battery, but will also help with other car parts, keeping the engine and other components lubricated and in working order.
- Avoid the Parking Brake- Never use the parking brake when storing the BMW, no matter how sensible it may seem. When left in contact with rotors for long periods of time, there is a risk the parking brake pads and the rotors might fuse together. Instead of taking this risk, use a tyre stopper to ensure the care can not move.
- Flat Spots- Always make sure the tyres on the BMW are inflated to the correct tyre pressure to prevent ‘flat spots,’ or spots that develop on the tyres after the car has been sitting for too long. If possible, have someone drive the car regularly to prevent this from occurring as well, especially if you will be leaving the car for more than a month. If no one is able to drive the car, don’t leave the tyres on. Take them off and place the car on jacks. This will ensure the tyres are still in pristine condition when you return.
Ready to put your BMW in storage? Check the tyres, charge the battery, and change the oil; these steps are critical for ensuring every one of your BMW parts remain undamaged.
