How to Store a Lexus for a Couple of Months

Lexus Storage

Seasonal changes, travel, lack of use: There are many reasons you may want to store your Lexus for a couple of months. Regardless of the reason, the steps for effective and secure storage of your Lexus will remain the same. It is recommended that you store your Lexus indoors. If you have no other alternative, you can also store your Lexus outdoors. It is crucial to mention, however, that outdoor storage comes with greater risk of damages to your Lexus.

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean the Lexus inside and out. The basic wash and wax is only the beginning when prepping your Lexus for storage. You should pay close attention to the underbody and wheel wells of the Lexus. Remove all dirt, as it holds moisture and can cause rust during storage. When cleaning the interior, ensure that all trash has been vacuumed and removed. Food left behind will attract rodents and grow mold. Allow the Lexus to air-dry before storage.

2. Fill the gas tank with fresh fuel and then thoroughly mix it with an appropriate amount of gasoline stabilizer to reduce the amount of gumming, varnish formation and condensation, which causes rust in the fuel system.

3. Install a vapor barrier on the floor of your storage space. Even untreated cement floors allow moisture to pass through them. This moisture can reach the bottom of the Lexus and can cause rusting. Earth floors will allow an even greater amount of moisture to reach the Lexus, if unprotected. A mix of plastic sheeting, tarps, and plywood can be used to create a vapor barrier in a parking spot.

4. Spray oil directly into the engine cylinders, after removing the spark plugs, to detour rust and corrosion. Reinstall the spark plugs and wires after oiling the cylinders and turn the crankshaft four to six times--this will lubricate the cylinders and walls.

5. Remove the battery by disconnecting the cables, starting with the ground. Clean the battery after it has been removed--pay close attention to any moisture-retaining build up. The battery should be stored indoors, outside of the Lexus, in a clean and dry space. Attach the battery to a float or trickle charger to sustain the charge during storage.

6. Lubricate every hinge on the Lexus. Hood, trunk, and door hinges should all be well lubricated.

7. Flush and check all fluid levels. Pay attention to brake fluid, oil and engine coolant. Brake fluid, which absorbs moisture, should be replaced with new fluid just before storage. Engine oil should also be flushed and replaced immediately before storage. If the Lexus is being stored outdoors, or if the indoor storage space is not heated, ensure the engine coolants freezing point is suitable for the expected temperatures.

8. Protect your Lexus from rodents and other animals. Rodents and other animals can cause extensive damage from chewing, and can nest in your Lexus. Use aluminum foil or steel wool to plug air intakes, tailpipes and any other openings. Mothballs can also be used in and around the Lexus to discourage such critters.

9. Remove the windshield wiper blades or lift them off the glass by placing a folded towel under the arms.

10. Install a car cover, if available. A premium fitted car cover will further help protect the exterior of the Lexus. If storing your Lexus outdoors, this step is a must. It will help protect the Lexus from the elements as much as possible. Ensure you select the correct car cover for the environmental elements that your Lexus will face.

References

• Popular Mechanic: Saturday Mechanic: Storing Your Car