{"id":10266,"date":"2025-10-22T14:09:15","date_gmt":"2025-10-22T13:09:15","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/?p=10266"},"modified":"2026-04-02T14:57:24","modified_gmt":"2026-04-02T13:57:24","slug":"how-to-store-a-car","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-store-a-car\/","title":{"rendered":"How to Store a Car in the UK (2026) | Step-by-Step Lay-Up Guide"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You may be thinking that storing a car is the same as parking in the garage. Never make this mistake. It is far different from that, where you have to fulfil legal matters, seal properly and protect the battery.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you get the laying-up process wrong, it will cost you thousands of pounds. As UK-based automotive experts, we&#8217;ve broken down the essential step-by-step process for securing your vehicle legally and physically.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2 data-start=\"149\" data-end=\"208\"><strong data-start=\"152\" data-end=\"208\">Key Takeaways: How to Store a Car Properly in the UK<\/strong><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li data-start=\"210\" data-end=\"281\">\n<p data-start=\"212\" data-end=\"281\">Always start by <a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-sorn-a-car\/\">declaring SORN<\/a> and keeping minimal insurance cover.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"282\" data-end=\"349\">\n<p data-start=\"284\" data-end=\"349\">Choose a dry, well-ventilated, and secure location for storage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"350\" data-end=\"425\">\n<p data-start=\"352\" data-end=\"425\">Clean the car thoroughly inside and out to prevent corrosion and mould.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"426\" data-end=\"500\">\n<p data-start=\"428\" data-end=\"500\">Top up or replace engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid before storage.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"501\" data-end=\"562\">\n<p data-start=\"503\" data-end=\"562\">Disconnect or maintain the battery using a smart charger.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"563\" data-end=\"635\">\n<p data-start=\"565\" data-end=\"635\">Inflate tyres to the correct pressure and move the car occasionally.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<li data-start=\"636\" data-end=\"702\">\n<p data-start=\"638\" data-end=\"702\">Use a breathable car cover and avoid leaving the handbrake on.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><div class=\"row saq-cta_div\">\n      <div class=\"col-xl-12\">\n        <div class=\"bg-yellow exchange-deal-content\" style=\"padding: 5rem 3rem;\">\n          <div class=\"title\">\n            <h3 class=\"big mb-4\">\n              Not using your car? Sell it for cash today\n            <\/h3>\n            <p class=\"h6 mb-0 fw-normal\">\n              Compare instant offers from serious UK buyers. All makes, ages, or mileages. Free collection and fast payment included. No hassle. No haggling. Just a fair offer in seconds.\n            <\/p>\n\t\t\t\n          <\/div>\n         \t <form class=\"row g-4 g-sm-5 gy-5 get-quote-form\" style=\"margin-top:20px;\" action=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/my-details\" method=\"post\" id=\"reg_form\" name=\"reg_form\">\n    <div class=\"col-6\">\n      <div class=\"position-relative\">\n        <div class=\"gb-icon-wrap small\">\n          <img src=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-content\/themes\/ssaq\/assets\/images\/icons\/gb.svg\" alt=\"GB\">\n        <\/div>\n        <input type=\"text\" name=\"reg_num\" required=\"\" class=\"form-control gb-icon saq-reg_field_color saq-milage-field\" placeholder=\"ENTER REG \" title=\"Please enter registration number\" maxlength=\"7\" value=\"\">\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"col-6\">\n          <input type=\"number\" class=\"form-control js-milage_commo saq-milage-field  saq-mileage_field_color\" name=\"mileage\" placeholder=\"MILEAGE\">\n    <\/div>\n    <div class=\"col-12\">\n      <button type=\"submit\" name=\"homesearch\" class=\"btn btn-big  saq-button-field btn-blue w-100\">Sell your car!<\/button>\n    <\/div>\n  <\/form>\n        <\/div>\n      <\/div>\n    <\/div><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How Long-Term Car Storage Works: Laying-up concept<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When we say \u201clong-term car storage\u201d, the term \u201claying up\u201d is often used. In simple words, it means taking your car off the road for an extended period and preparing it so it stays in good condition. It is more than parking in a garage but protecting your car from wear, weather, and mechanical issues.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">In the UK, the process of legally taking a vehicle &#8216;off the road&#8217; is formalised by the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/sell-my-car-dvla\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">DVLA<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> as a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN). It is a declaration that you will not be driving, using, or keeping your vehicle on any public road.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3>Short-Term vs Long-Term Storage Comparison<\/h3>\n<table>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><b>Feature<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Short-Term (Under 3 months)<\/b><\/td>\n<td><b>Long-Term (Over 3 months)<\/b><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Fuel stabiliser needed?<\/td>\n<td>Not essential<\/td>\n<td>Highly recommended<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Battery disconnection<\/td>\n<td>Optional<\/td>\n<td>Advisable<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Tyre pressure check<\/td>\n<td>Monthly<\/td>\n<td>Before storage and every few months<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Car cover type<\/td>\n<td>Light indoor or outdoor cover<\/td>\n<td>Breathable, weatherproof cover<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>SORN required<\/td>\n<td>Usually no<\/td>\n<td>Yes, if kept off-road<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Insurance<\/td>\n<td>Keep at least laid-up cover<\/td>\n<td>Essential<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step-by-Step: How to Store a Car Properly in the UK<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing a car properly isn\u2019t just about leaving it in a garage and hoping for the best. Here are a few smart steps that can now save you money, stress, and a lot of potential problems:<\/span><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 1: Sort Out the Legal Process (SORN &amp; Insurance)<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Before anything else, you must make your car legally invisible to the government, which is called <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.gov.uk\/sorn-statutory-off-road-notification\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">SORN<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">. It is the process where you have to notify DVLA that your car may not be used on public roads. Otherwise, you will pay tax on it.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Insurance is just as important. Even when a car is stored, you should keep at least fire and theft cover in case something happens while it\u2019s parked. It protects your investment while it\u2019s sitting still.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 2: Choose the Right Location<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Next is choosing the right location. It really matters where you are going to store a car; otherwise, it won&#8217;t survive for too long. So ideally, pick a dry, sheltered spot, and your garage could be perfect, but if you only have a driveway, at least use a breathable car cover to protect against rain, frost, and dust.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The spot should be covered and not exposed to the sun or rain. If possible, keep your car somewhere ventilated but secure, away from standing water or damp walls.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 3: Clean and Protect the Car<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">While storing a car, it is important to keep your car clean. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-wash-a-car-at-home-diy-guide\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Wash out<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> all dirt and mud from the exterior so that no dust and water drops remain on the car. Also consider a wax coat for extra protection.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Don\u2019t forget the interior. Vacuum carpets, wipe down surfaces, and remove any rubbish or food.\u00a0 If you\u2019re storing a classic or leather-trimmed car, consider using leather conditioner to keep it in top condition.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 4: Check and Top Up Fluids<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Old fluids, especially engine oil, are corrosive. If your car is stored for longer than three months, it&#8217;s essential to change them.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/assets\/empty.png\" data-original=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/timthumb.php?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.exchangemycar.co.uk%2Fblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2023%2F08%2Fchange-oil-scaled-e1739972231711.jpeg&w=777&h=485\" class=\"img-fluid img-inherit img-cover lazy\" alt=\"change engine oil when storing a car\" \/><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Change the engine oil and filter:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Used oil contains acidic contaminants that settle and corrode internal engine components over months of inactivity. So keep fresh <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-change-engine-oil\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">engine oil<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Fill the fuel tank completely:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> A full tank leaves no room for air, which means no room for condensation. Condensation introduces water into the fuel system, promoting rust inside the tank. For storage over 6 months, add a quality fuel stabiliser as modern fuels degrade over time.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><b>Coolant &amp; Brake Fluid:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Fill the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/what-coolant-for-my-car\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">coolant<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> fluid with the correct antifreeze mixture. Also, add brake fluid, which is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), leading to rust in the braking system.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 5: Battery Care and Chargers<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-long-do-car-batteries-last\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">battery<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is the most important part of a car, which helps in starting a car. A flat battery can leave you stranded or even damage your vehicle\u2019s electrical system. Here\u2019s how to protect it:<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Disconnect the battery because this prevents slow drain.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Use a battery maintainer which keeps the battery topped up without overcharging, which is ideal for long-term storage.<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\" aria-level=\"1\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For electric or hybrid vehicles, aim to store the battery at around 50\u201370% charge and avoid leaving it at full or empty.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 6: Prevent Flat Tyres<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When a car sits still for too long, the area of the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-long-do-car-tyres-last\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">tyre<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> pressing against the ground can flatten out, creating a permanent defect known as a &#8220;flat spot&#8221;. To avoid this, inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure or slightly above. It is usually around 50 psi. Remember that tyres lose pressure naturally over time, so fill them once you are going to drive.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><img src=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/assets\/empty.png\" data-original=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/timthumb.php?src=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.exchangemycar.co.uk%2Fblog%2Fwp-content%2Fuploads%2F2024%2F05%2FAdobeStock_131021367-min.jpg&w=777&h=485\" class=\"img-fluid img-inherit img-cover lazy\" alt=\"Tyre pressure check - how to store a car\" \/><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step 7: Secure and Cover<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lastly, secure the vehicle and put the cover on. It is as important as mechanical care. You should use a good-quality, breathable car cover to protect your car from dust, frost and rainwater.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Gently lift the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/how-to-change-windshield-wipers\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">windshield wipers<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> away from the glass. This prevents the rubber blades from bonding to the screen over time and preserves the rubber&#8217;s flexibility.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">And don\u2019t forget locking the door, checking windows and installing an alarm or CCTV for extra peace of mind.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Common Mistakes to Avoid<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Putting your car into long-term storage might seem straightforward, but a few critical errors can lead to costly damage. You should be aware of these mistakes to keep your car safe.<\/span><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><b>Neglecting the environmental conditions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> Because humidity and condensation are the biggest enemies, which lead to rust and corrosion. So store it in a dry spot and cover it with a breathable cover.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Leaving the handbrake on<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">: It is done for safety, but leaving the handbrake engaged for months can cause it to seize, especially in damp UK weather. Instead, leave the car in gear (manual) or use wheel chocks (automatic) to prevent it from moving.<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Ignoring fluid health: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Never leave old, contaminated engine oil or a nearly empty fuel tank. It becomes acidic and corrodes internal engine components.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li><b>Ignoring Pest Control: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Leaving the air intake or exhaust pipe uncovered could allow mice and rats in. So place clean rags, wire wool, or an aluminium screen over the exhaust pipe and air intake to deter pests.\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Frequently Asked Questions<\/span><\/h2>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to store a car for 20 years<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing a car for decades needs meticulous preparation. Begin with a comprehensive cleaning of the car, both inside and outside, followed by topping off all fluids and safeguarding the battery. Keep the car in a dry, ventilated, and secure indoor space, ideally with controlled temperature and humidity.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to store a classic car outside<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing a classic car outdoors is generally strongly discouraged due to the high risk of rust, paint damage, and moisture issues. However, if you want to, then you need a professional procedure. Choose a perfect dry location, clean the car properly, and cover it with an extremely durable, high-quality, breathable outdoor car cover. Also, check on the car frequently.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">How to store an electric car?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Long-term storage for an electric vehicle (EV) focuses primarily on the high-voltage lithium-ion battery health. You have to store a car with a battery charge at around 50% &#8211; 70% and avoid storing it in extreme temperatures. However, you should keep the car clean inside and out and cover it with a breathable cover.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Do I need to SORN my car if it\u2019s in a garage?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Yes, in the UK, you must make a Statutory Off Road Notification (SORN) if your vehicle is not taxed and not kept or used on a public road.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Should I disconnect the battery for long-term storage?<\/span><\/h3>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It depends on the duration of storage and the type of vehicle. However, disconnecting the battery prevents it from draining over time. Alternatively, you can use a smart trickle charger to maintain the battery safely.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Final Verdict: How to Store a Car<\/span><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Storing a car is not that simple, just park it in the garage and leave it. It needs a proper procedure to save it from damage, which will cost you thousands of pounds. From choosing the right location and keeping tyres, battery, and fluids in check to protecting the car from moisture and pests. You have to follow all the mentioned steps carefully.<\/span><\/p>\n<p>For more expert car care advice, visit our <a href=\"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/\">blog<\/a> section.<\/p>\n<div style=\"all: initial !important;\"><\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>You may be thinking that storing a car is the same as parking in the garage. Never make this mistake. It is far different from that, where you have to fulfil legal matters, seal properly and protect the battery.\u00a0 If you get the laying-up process wrong, it will cost you thousands of pounds. As UK-based [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":13,"featured_media":4396,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"om_disable_all_campaigns":false,"_mi_skip_tracking":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_active":false,"_monsterinsights_sitenote_note":"","_monsterinsights_sitenote_category":0},"categories":[1],"tags":[1580,1747,1748,1749],"acf":[],"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10266"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/13"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=10266"}],"version-history":[{"count":13,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10266\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":11474,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/10266\/revisions\/11474"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4396"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=10266"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=10266"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.exchangemycar.co.uk\/blog\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=10266"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}