Restore Vehicle Reliability After Long Storage

Cost Savings

Checklist Tasks

• Inspect undercarriage and wheel wells for nests or chewed wires before starting.
• Check tire sidewalls for flat spots or dry rot; inflate tires to specification.
• Test battery voltage and clean terminals to ensure reliable startup.
• Drain and refill old fuel if stored over 6 months to avoid injector clogging.
• Examine brake rotors for rust and test brakes at low speed for safe stopping.
• Inspect all hoses for cracks or brittleness, replacing any damaged sections.
• Check engine oil for milky color; change oil and filter if needed.
• Lubricate door, hood, and trunk hinges; check all seals for tears or drying.
• Test all exterior and interior lights for damage or bulb failure.
• Run HVAC on all settings to clear dust and check for moldy odors.
• Look for pooled fluids under car after startup to detect leaks early.
• Reset tire pressure monitor and clear error codes on the dashboard.