Long term storage

[Surfer]

We want to store a 1996 vehicle which is in perfect running condition with MOT etc for possibly up to a year or maybe a bit longer. The vehicle will have a SORN and we are hoping that we can get third party fire and theft cover at a reasonable price. The latter seems just about impossible as quotes are higher than comprehensive cover?
Also we would like to keep the MOT up to date in case the car is urgently needed and are aware that as long as we have a pre-booked MOT appointment, we can drive the untaxed vehicle on the road.
Besides the legalaties, are there any issues we should be aware of as we intend to have about third tank of unleaded fuel in the tank. The tyres a re reasonable new and we can move the vehicle in and out of the garage at least once a month. Thanks.

 

[Dustydog]

Surfer

do you really want to drive it on the road as stated. "Urgently needed"? A taxi may be cheaper. Then you could insure it for fire and theft only.
it is the third party aspect of the insurance that costs most.

 

[Surfer]

Surfer

do you really want to drive it on the road as stated. "Urgently needed"? A taxi may be cheaper. Then you could insure it for fire and theft only.
it is the third party aspect of the insurance that costs most.

Thanks but if urgently needed it would be taxed for used long term i.e a few months and have comprehensive insurance.

 

[otherclive]

Not easy as storage for such a period will require some other actions to ensure that it will not deteriorate whilst not being used. Such things as:

• Flush the cooling system and fill with new coolant and demin water.
• Change the oils/lubs
• Renew brake fluid
• Trickle charge battery
• Fully/over inflate tyres and lift onto axle stands
• Get someone in to press the brake pedals, clutch, move gear lever, and if possible spin over the motor and warm it up whilst engaging drive. Seals will deteriorate if not operated. (clutch, gearboxes, steering and brake) Suspension and transmission bearings will need graesing and ideally operating.
• Then when you get back all fluids/lubs should be changed and joints greased.

I did a similar thing with an E90 (G Reg) M3 when I worked in Canada and she was fine when I got back, but I put a lot of effort into ensuring that she was fully prepped for hibernation.

Alternatively you could give it to a friend/relative for limited use or weekly runs to warm it through.

 

[otherclive]

Oh and one more thing doors with courtesy light switches will need opening periodically or the switches stick/corrode and will play havoc with an alarm system or can lead to self locking when not required!