Maintenance Necessary for Long-Term Car Storage

1. Let's start with the most important step: changing the oil and filter. First, make sure the vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the engine is cool. Then, remove the plug under the engine to drain the old oil into a pan. Once it's drained, put the plug back and apply fresh oil to the rubber gasket before putting on a new filter. Next, use a funnel to pour the right amount of oil into the oil tank at the top of the engine. Finally, start the engine for a few minutes, check for leaks, and make sure the oil level is correct using the dipstick.
2. Make sure your vehicle stays in good shape for the long term by checking your fluids regularly. This means filling up the fuel tank to stop moisture from building up and using a fuel stabilizer. Also, don't forget to refill the engine coolant, brake fluid, and windshield wiper fluids.
3. Check the recommended air pressure for your tires, usually between 30 and 35 psi, but it may vary depending on the tire type. Adjust the air pressure accordingly before storing your vehicle long-term.
4. Give your car a good cleaning. If there's any dirt in your car, it will get worse over time. Vacuum up all the crumbs, dirt, contaminants, and pet hair. Then, throw away any wrappers and cups. Also, shampoo the seats, wipe the windows, and clean the cup holders.
5. Put on New Wiper Blades. Even though it might not seem like a big deal, it's smart to do it now to prevent problems later. Here's why: imagine you don't replace old wiper blades before storing your car, and then when you need them on a rainy day months later, they hardly work. To avoid this, make sure to replace the blades every 6-12 months.

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