Whether you're storing a seasonal vehicle, heading out of the country for a few months, or just need to free up driveway space, vehicle storage is a bigger decision than it looks. The wrong facility or poor prep can mean a dead battery, rust damage, or worse — a vehicle that won't start. Here's everything you need to know.
Types of Vehicle Storage
Outdoor Uncovered
The cheapest option — your vehicle sits in an open lot with no roof or protection. Fine for short-term storage of rugged vehicles, boats on trailers, or RVs in mild climates. UV exposure degrades rubber seals, paint, and tires over time. Not recommended for long-term storage of anything valuable.
Typical cost: $30–$80/month for cars, $50–$120/month for RVs and boats.
Outdoor Covered
A carport-style canopy keeps rain, snow, and direct sun off the vehicle. Better than uncovered for long-term storage — significantly extends the life of paint and rubber. Still exposed to humidity and temperature swings.
Typical cost: $60–$130/month.
Indoor Non-Climate-Controlled
Your vehicle is inside a building, protected from weather and UV. Temperature still swings with the seasons but humidity and precipitation are fully controlled. Good option for most vehicles in most climates — especially cars, motorcycles, and boats.
Typical cost: $100–$200/month for standard units.
Indoor Climate-Controlled
The gold standard. Consistent temperature (typically 55–80°F) and humidity. Best for classic cars, collector vehicles, high-end motorcycles, and boats with sensitive electronics or wood interiors. Substantially more expensive — most owners of everyday vehicles don't need this level.
Typical cost: $150–$400+/month depending on vehicle size.
How to Prep Your Car for Storage
A 30-minute prep before storing makes a real difference over 3+ months:
- Fill the fuel tank and add fuel stabilizer. A full tank prevents condensation buildup inside. Fuel stabilizer (like Sta-Bil) prevents the gasoline from degrading and gumming up fuel lines over 1–6 months.
- Change the oil. Used oil contains combustion byproducts that become corrosive over time. Fresh oil before storage protects the engine.
- Clean and wax the exterior. Dirt and moisture left on paint causes micro-rust and etching. A coat of wax protects the clear coat during storage.
- Inflate tires to the high end of the recommended range. Tires lose 1–2 PSI per month. Slightly over-inflating at the start prevents flat spots from developing.
- Disconnect or remove the battery. A battery slowly discharges over weeks. Either connect a trickle charger or remove the battery entirely. A dead battery that sits discharged can be permanently damaged.
- Place rodent deterrents. Steel wool in the exhaust pipe, dryer sheets under the hood and inside the cabin, and peppermint oil on cotton balls near entry points all deter mice from nesting.
- Leave the parking brake off. Engaged parking brakes can seize on rotors over long storage periods. Use wheel chocks instead.
RV and Boat Storage: What's Different
RVs
- Winterize the plumbing if storing in freezing temperatures — burst pipes are expensive.
- Cover roof vents and seams with RV cover or tape to prevent water intrusion.
- Remove all food and anything perishable — mice will find it.
- Roof condition matters: check for cracks or soft spots before storage that could worsen under snow load.
Boats
- Flush the engine with fresh water if stored near salt water.
- Drain all water from the bilge and any plumbing.
- Cover with a breathable marine cover — not plastic tarps that trap moisture.
- Remove electronics and anything valuable.
What to Check in the Contract
Vehicle storage contracts have specific clauses worth reading:
- Liability limits — Most facilities cap liability at $5,000–$10,000. Check whether your auto insurance or RV insurance covers the vehicle while in storage (most do, with a storage endorsement).
- Access hours — Outdoor lots often have 24-hour access. Indoor facilities may have restricted hours. Know whether you can get your vehicle if you need it urgently.
- Size restrictions — Check height clearances for RVs. Many indoor facilities can't accommodate vehicles over 9–10 feet tall.
- Maintenance restrictions — Most facilities prohibit any maintenance work (oil changes, repairs) on site.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does it cost to store a car per month?
Outdoor uncovered storage runs $30–$80/month for a standard car. Covered outdoor is $60–$130/month. Indoor non-climate-controlled is $100–$200/month. Indoor climate-controlled storage for vehicles ranges from $150–$400+/month depending on vehicle size and market.
How do you prepare a car for long-term storage?
Fill the gas tank and add fuel stabilizer, change the oil, clean and wax the exterior, inflate tires to the upper recommended range, disconnect the battery or connect a trickle charger, place rodent deterrents, and leave the parking brake off (use wheel chocks instead).
Can you store an RV in a regular storage unit?
Most standard storage units are too small for RVs. Facilities that accept RVs typically offer oversized outdoor spaces (covered or uncovered), drive-through units, or large indoor units. Check height and length clearances before booking.
Does car insurance cover a vehicle in storage?
Most auto insurance policies continue to cover vehicles in storage for liability and comprehensive claims. Some insurers let you temporarily reduce coverage to comprehensive-only while stored, which can save money. Call your insurer before dropping coverage.