When storing your car for an extended period — whether it’s during travel, deployment, or Florida’s off-season — one of the most common questions is: how often should I start my car while it’s in storage?
It’s a smart question, and the answer depends on how long you’re storing it, the type of storage you’re using, and how you’ve prepared your vehicle beforehand.
Let’s go over what really matters, how to keep your car’s systems healthy, and a few extra steps to make sure it’s ready to roll when you return.
Why Starting Your Car Matters
A car that sits too long without being started can develop small — but expensive — issues. The battery can drain, tires lose pressure, fluids settle, and even the seals can dry out.
Starting your vehicle periodically keeps fluids moving through the engine, maintains lubrication, and gives the battery a charge.
But there’s a balance: start it too often and you may cause unnecessary wear or condensation buildup. Not enough, and you risk a dead battery or other mechanical problems.
The General Rule: Once Every Two Weeks
For most vehicles in regular storage, experts recommend starting your car every two weeks and letting it run for about 15 to 20 minutes.
Here’s how to do it properly:
-
Open the garage or storage door first. Never idle in an enclosed space.
-
Let the engine reach full operating temperature. This ensures the oil circulates and moisture evaporates.
-
Cycle through the gears (if automatic) and gently move the car a few feet to prevent tire flat spots.
-
Turn on the A/C and defroster for a few minutes to keep seals and systems in good shape.
If your car is stored in a facility that allows you to access it easily, this quick routine can make all the difference in keeping it road-ready.
When You Can’t Access the Vehicle Often
If your car is stored in a facility where starting it isn’t possible — such as long-term or enclosed storage — you can still protect it.
Here’s how:
-
Use a battery maintainer or trickle charger. This keeps your battery charged safely over time.
-
Top off fluids (oil, coolant, brake, transmission) before storage.
-
Inflate tires to the upper recommended PSI to offset air loss.
-
Cover the vehicle with a breathable car cover to prevent dust and moisture buildup.
These steps can help your car stay in great condition even without being started for months.
Florida-Specific Considerations
Florida’s warm and humid climate adds a few extra challenges. Moisture and heat can cause mold, battery corrosion, and faster tire aging.
To protect your car in Florida storage:
-
Choose climate-controlled storage if available. It’s worth the extra cost for long-term vehicle protection.
-
Use moisture absorbers or desiccant packs inside the cabin and trunk.
-
Clean and wax the exterior before storage to protect against humidity and salt in the air.
-
Seal gaps and air intakes to discourage insects or small critters that are common in the region.
For Long-Term Storage (3+ Months)
If your car will sit for several months or longer, the best approach is to not start it at all unless you can drive it for at least 15–20 minutes. Short idling can create condensation in the exhaust and engine.
Instead, focus on preventive steps before storage:
-
Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer.
-
Change the oil to prevent old contaminants from sitting in the engine.
-
Jack the car slightly off the tires or use tire cradles to prevent flat spots.
-
Disconnect or remove the battery if not using a maintainer.
When you’re ready to bring it out of storage, reconnect the battery, check tire pressure, top off fluids, and take a slow test drive before hitting the highway.
Keeping Your Vehicle Road-Ready
In the end, how often you start your car depends on access and storage length. For cars in short-term storage, a bi-weekly start is ideal. For long-term or seasonal storage, proper preparation before parking is far more important than frequent startups.
The key takeaway: your car doesn’t just need to be stored — it needs to be maintained while it rests.
A little attention now can prevent costly repairs later, whether it’s battery failure, tire damage, or corrosion from Florida’s humidity.
And when it’s time to hit the road again, your car will start strong — ready for your next drive instead of a trip to the repair shop.
South Westshore Outdoor Storage | Tampa FL
