Whether you’re heading overseas for an extended period, downsizing your living space, or simply need to store a classic car during winter months, proper vehicle storage is essential for protecting your investment. New Zealand’s unique climate conditions, from Auckland’s humidity to Christchurch’s temperature fluctuations, require specific considerations when storing your car long-term.
At All Secure Self Storage, we’ve helped thousands of Kiwis across our 20+ facilities nationwide store their vehicles safely. Here’s your complete guide to the essential do’s and don’ts of car storage in New Zealand.

The short version

Storing a car well means prepping it properly first: clean it, top up the fluids, sort the tyres and battery, and cover it in a secure, dry space. Do that and it will start first time when you come back. Skip it and you risk flat spots, a dead battery, and mould.

Essential Do’s for Car Storage Success

  • Do clean your car thoroughly before storage. Wash and wax the exterior to remove dirt, salt, and contaminants that could cause corrosion during storage. Clean the interior completely, removing all food items, papers, and personal belongings that could attract pests or create odours.
  • Do change the oil and top up all fluids. Fresh oil prevents acid buildup that can damage your engine during extended storage. Check and top up brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid. Consider adding a fuel stabiliser to prevent petrol degradation, especially important in New Zealand’s varying climate conditions.
  • Do inflate tyres to the recommended pressure. Properly inflated tyres prevent flat spots from developing during long-term storage. If storing for more than six months, consider using tyre cradles or moving the vehicle periodically.
  • Do disconnect the battery or use a battery tender. New Zealand’s temperature variations can drain car batteries quickly. Either disconnect the negative terminal or invest in a quality battery maintainer to keep your battery in optimal condition.
  • Do choose climate-controlled storage when possible. New Zealand’s humidity levels, particularly in coastal areas like Auckland and Wellington, can cause significant damage to vehicles. Climate-controlled storage facilities protect against moisture, rust, and temperature-related damage.

Critical Don’ts to Avoid Costly Mistakes

  • Don’t store your car with a full tank of petrol. While you should add fuel stabiliser, avoid filling the tank completely. Petrol can degrade over time and expand in warmer temperatures, potentially causing issues with your fuel system.
  • Don’t engage the handbrake for long-term storage. In New Zealand’s varying temperatures, brake pads can stick to rotors if the handbrake remains engaged for months. Instead, use wheel chocks to prevent rolling.
  • Don’t forget about insurance coverage. Verify that your car insurance covers storage situations. Some policies may require notification when a vehicle is stored long-term, while others might offer reduced premiums for stored vehicles.
  • Don’t choose outdoor storage for valuable vehicles. New Zealand’s UV exposure, rain, and coastal salt air can cause significant damage to paintwork and metal components. Covered or indoor storage is essential for protecting your investment.

How to prepare your car for storage

A little preparation makes all the difference for a car that is sitting still for weeks or months. Give it a thorough wash and wax to protect the paint, and clean the interior so you are not storing crumbs that attract pests. Top up the fuel tank and add a fuel stabiliser to stop condensation and keep the fuel fresh. Change the oil if it is due, since old oil can hold contaminants that harm the engine over time.
For the tyres, inflate them to the recommended pressure, or slightly above, to reduce the chance of flat spots forming. On longer stays, consider moving the car occasionally or using jack stands. Disconnect the battery or hook it up to a trickle charger so it does not drain, and release the handbrake if the car is on a flat, secure surface to avoid the brakes seizing. Finally, use a breathable car cover rather than plastic, which traps moisture.

Car storage at a glance

DO clean and wax first

Protects paint and stops pests nesting in a dirty interior.

DO sort the battery and tyres

Trickle charge the battery and inflate tyres to avoid flat spots.

DON’T leave the tank empty

An empty tank invites condensation and rust. Fill up and stabilise.

DON’T use a plastic cover

It traps moisture. Use a breathable cover in a dry, secure unit.

Ready to Store Your Vehicle Safely?

Proper car storage doesn’t have to be complicated when you follow these essential guidelines. Whether you need short-term storage in Auckland, long-term vehicle protection in Christchurch, or secure storage anywhere across New Zealand, All Secure Self Storage has the expertise and facilities to keep your car in perfect condition.
Contact your nearest All Secure facility today to discuss your vehicle storage needs and reserve your space. Our friendly local teams are ready to help you choose the perfect storage solution for your situation and budget.

All Secure offers secure vehicle storage and boat storage across New Zealand. Find a facility near you or request a quote.