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What to Do If You Only Use Your Car Part Time in Phoenix

If you’re like many Arizonans, you may make it a point to reside here during the most comfortable times of the year, before record-setting temperatures become the norm and you’re forced to spend much of your time inside or in the presence of a very strong misting system. If you consider yourself a “Winter Visitor,” or someone who sets up shop in the Grand Canyon State when the weather is most pleasant and then leaves for a period of time, you may find it more convenient to keep a vehicle here in the state while you return home or travel to other parts of the country or world. If you’re a Winter Visitor, a member of the U.S. Armed Forces, or anyone who leaves his or her vehicle alone for longer than a month at a time, read on to find out more about how to store it safely in your absence.

Wash and Wax It

While it may seem like a waste of money to get a carwash before leaving town for an extended period, it’s actually a very wise move. Water spots, bird guano, and dirt can harm your vehicle’s paint if left to sit over time. A thorough car wash, however, will help keep this from happening. Waxing your car can also help it stay in tip-top shape until your return.

Keep It Stored or Under a High-Quality Car Cover

It’s never wise to leave your car stored on a street for an extended period of time. The elements, thieves, bugs, and rodents can all wreak havoc on your vehicle if not properly stored. Keeping it in a locked garage is ideal, but if this isn’t possible, at the very least you’ll want to cover it with a durable, weather-resistant car cover will help prevent damage from the elements and so forth.

Fill the Tank and Change the Oil

Like washing your car, you may think filling your gas tank and getting an oil change can wait until your return and are ready to drive again. However, this should be avoided, especially if your absence is for a month or more. When your fuel tank isn’t full of gas and sits for an extended period, it can take on excess moisture, which can cause a number of problems down the line. It’s important, however, to add a fuel stabilizer to the tank to prevent gas from losing octane and turning to vapor. Changing the oil is also advised if you plan to be gone for more than a few weeks because engine oil contains potentially damaging contaminants that can eventually hinder engine performance if left stagnant.

Follow these tips to minimize the work you’ll have to do when you return to town. You’ll also shorten the amount of time it takes you to get your car back out on the open road.

Are you preparing to leave for an extended period? Stop by or schedule an oil change with Sun Devil Auto, today!

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