Storing car for a couple of months.

DM737

I plan on storing my car (2012 370Z coupe manual) for a couple of months this winter. Besides changing oil, full tank of gas, stabilizing the gas, do I need a battery tender?

GaleForce

A battery tender is a nice convenience. You will retain your radio presets, you won't need to reset the power windows and airbag lights like you do if you disconnect the battery.

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nmjaxx9

also make sure to keep the tires on flatstoppers so you dont get flat spots.

GaleForce

My tires are filled with nitrogen and didn't flat spot.

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nmjaxx9

the questions is OPs tires filled with nitrogen? If not flatstoppers needed unless OP plans to move the car back and forth every couple days.

GaleForce

or put the car on jack stands

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forza370z

That's what I did during the winter. Although I told everyone my car was hibernating, I just couldn't resist sneaking into the garage and took her out for a spin every couple days.

LakeShow

I would just drive it when possible, not just store permanantly for months on end. If there's a reasonable clear sunny day, take it out and get the fluids and engine running.

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|2013 Audi S4|Ibis White/Black|S-Tronic P+|
|2013 370z|PearlWhite/Persimmon|Touring/Sport/Nav|F.I. CBE 18" CF|
|Sold|2011 370z|Gun Metallic|Touring/Sport/Nav|

2011 Nismo#91

This is a generic check list for any car.

1. Wash & wax the car prior to the day you intend to store it, then drive the car a little in order to help evacuate water from brakes, nooks, & crannies.
2. Apply leather treatment to all leather to prevent drying and cracking.
3. Fluids:
4. Change the oil and filter.
5. Check windshield washer fluid - be sure it is winterized with antifreeze or something similar.
6. Add StaBil to fuel tank (run engine afterwards) & top off fuel tank.
7. Check antifreeze strength
8. For annual storage suspension on blocks is NOT recommended as the shock absorber pistons are fully extended and can corrode and stick.
9. Inflate tires to 8 PSI above the maximum rating on the tire to avoid flat spotting. Or use flat stoppers.
10. Lube electric antenna mast with thin oil and retract.
11. Disconnect and remove battery or pull fuse of clock and burglar alarm to prevent battery drainage; pulled batteries should be stored in a cool, dry place not on a concrete floor, slow charge in mid-winter every several months. Or leave battery connected and connect a battery maintainer.
12. Lube door, hood, trunk and targa rubber seals with silicone spray. Close doors, hood, and trunk to FIRST LOCK position so that seals are relaxed. Be sure hood and interior door lights are not on.
13. Place small wood blocks under wiper arms so blades are off glass.
14. If high humidity conditions are expected, leave a silica gel bag in the car.
15. Close the vent flaps.
16. Seal intakes and exhaust pipe with tape or towels.
17. Relax Targa tops.
18. Park vehicle on large sheet of plastic to prevent ground moisture from attacking underbody.
19. Cover with a QUALITY car cover which will allow humidity & moisture passage.
20. Do NOT set the handbrake.
21. Say Goodbye ....

This is good for a 3-4 month storage period.

PS Nitrogen will not stop flat spots I don't know how anyone could even suggest that. Flat spots are caused by the weight of the car deforming the tires at the contact patch. Nitrogen wont make your car float in the air.