Preparing Your Car for Long-Term Storage in Dubai

Scrudgi

Member
Oct 15, 2025
43
0
6
When you plan to store your car for several months in Dubai, start by giving it a full clean inside and out to prevent dirt buildup that could lead to rust or mold in the humid climate. Wash the exterior with soap and water, then dry it completely with a microfiber cloth to avoid water spots from the intense sun. Vacuum the interior thoroughly, including seats, carpets, and trunk, and wipe down all surfaces with a mild cleaner. Pay extra attention to the undercarriage, where sand and salt from roads can accumulate, so use a pressure washer if possible to remove grime. Once clean, apply a wax layer to the paint for protection against dust storms common in the region. Next, handle the mechanical side by changing the engine oil and filter, even if the car has low mileage, because old oil can degrade and cause issues during inactivity. Top up or replace coolant, brake fluid, and transmission fluid to keep the system stable in high temperatures that reach over 40 degrees Celsius. For the fuel, add a stabilizer to the tank and fill it almost full to minimize condensation inside, which happens easily in Dubai's fluctuating humidity. Drive the car a short distance after adding the stabilizer so it mixes well. Now, address the battery, which drains quickly in heat, so disconnect the negative terminal and remove it if storage lasts longer than a month, or connect a trickle charger to maintain charge without overdoing it. Check tire pressure and inflate them to the maximum recommended level from the owner's manual, then place the car on jack stands or wooden blocks to relieve pressure on the rubber and prevent flat spots, especially since Dubai's garage floors can get hot. Cover the tires with plastic bags if you worry about rodents chewing them. Protect the engine by spraying fogging oil into the cylinders after removing spark plugs, which keeps internal parts from seizing up. Reinstall the plugs loosely afterward. For the exterior, use a breathable car cover made of cotton or tyvek to shield from dust while allowing air flow, avoiding plastic tarps that trap moisture. Seal any openings like vents or exhaust with tape to block insects and sand. Park the car in a shaded, ventilated spot, ideally a garage with good airflow, away from direct sunlight that bakes components. If you lack space at home, look into home storage dubai options that suit vehicles too. Before leaving it, start the engine briefly every two weeks if you can access it, or have someone do so to circulate fluids and keep seals lubricated. Check for leaks under the car periodically. In Dubai's environment, watch for termites or ants, so place mothballs or cedar blocks around the wheels. Document the storage date and condition with photos for your records. When you retrieve the car, inspect everything again, change fluids once more, and take it for a test drive to spot any problems early. Follow these steps, and your vehicle stays in good shape until you need it again.