As a vehicle owner, you know the significant cost of a good set of tires. When preparing a vehicle for long-term storage, ensuring your tires maintain their structural integrity is crucial. Flat spots and dry rot are common issues, but they are entirely preventable with the right preparation. Our team at Homestead Storage, your go-to Greeley storage facility, has a few easy steps to ensure your tires are ready to roll when you are.
Start With a Thorough Cleaning
Before storing your vehicle, give the tires and wheels a deep cleaning. Use a quality tire cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to remove all brake dust, dirt, and road grime. These substances can be corrosive to the rubber and wheel finish over time. A clean surface is the first defense against premature aging and decay.
Inflate Your Tires
It is generally recommended to inflate the tires to the maximum cold pressure listed on the tire’s sidewall. This increased pressure helps the tire maintain its round shape under the vehicle’s weight, significantly reducing the chance of a permanent flat spot from developing. Crucially, before you drive the car again, remember to air the tires back down to the normal recommended pressure for safe operation.
Protect Tires from UV and Ozone Exposure
Sunlight and ozone are the primary causes of dry rot, which creates dangerous cracks in the tire’s rubber. The best way to prevent this is by shielding your vehicle from the elements. An indoor vehicle storage unit provides complete protection from direct sunlight and extreme temperature swings, preserving the integrity and lifespan of your tires.
Reduce the Load with Jack Stands
For storage periods longer than a few months, the gold standard for tire preservation is to take the weight of the vehicle off them entirely. Place the car on four quality jack stands, positioned on strong frame points. This eliminates the pressure that causes flat-spotting and allows you to reduce the tire pressure back to normal levels.
Proper tire care is crucial for protecting your investment and ensuring safety when you’re ready to hit the road again. By taking these steps, you can avoid costly replacements. For ultimate peace of mind, an indoor unit at Homestead Storage provides a secure environment, safeguarding your entire vehicle from the tires up. Contact us to reserve your spot today!
Recent Comments