Properly storing your car for an extended period, whether it’s for the winter months or a temporary relocation, is crucial to ensure its longevity and prevent any potential damage. One often overlooked but vital aspect of car storage is the placement of supports under the tires.
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Why is it Important?
Using supports, such as jack stands or blocks, under your tires when storing a car is essential for several reasons:
Preventing Tire Flatspots
When a car sits for a long time, the weight of the vehicle can cause the tires to deform and develop flat spots. This happens because the rubber loses its elasticity over time under constant pressure. Flat spots can affect the handling and ride quality of your car once you start driving it again.
Maintaining Suspension Alignment
Proper tire support helps to maintain the suspension’s alignment. Without support, the weight of the car can cause the suspension to sag, leading to uneven tire wear and potential damage to the suspension components.
Protecting the Floor
Using supports lifts the tires off the ground, preventing any potential damage to the floor of your storage area. This is particularly important if you’re storing your car on a concrete floor, as the weight of the tires can create indentations over time.
What To Put Under Tires When Storing Car
Storing your car for an extended period, whether it’s for the winter, a move, or simply a break from driving, requires careful preparation to ensure its tires remain in good condition and prevent damage to your vehicle. One crucial aspect of this preparation is choosing the right support for your tires. Improper tire support can lead to flat spots, uneven wear, and even damage to your vehicle’s suspension.
Why Use Tire Supports?
Tires are designed to be flexible and constantly changing shape as they roll. When a car is parked for a long time, the weight of the vehicle can cause the tires to deform and flatten in the same spot, creating flat spots. Flat spots can affect your car’s handling, ride quality, and even cause premature tire wear. Using tire supports helps to distribute the weight of the car evenly, preventing flat spots and preserving the integrity of your tires.
Types of Tire Supports
There are several different types of tire supports available, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a breakdown of the most common options:
1. Wheel Chocks
Wheel chocks are simple, wedge-shaped blocks designed to prevent a vehicle from rolling. They are typically made of rubber or wood and are placed behind the wheels to keep the car stationary. While effective for short-term parking, wheel chocks are not suitable for long-term storage as they do not provide adequate support for the weight of the vehicle. (See Also: Why Do My Tires Sound Loud When Driving)
2. Jack Stands
Jack stands are heavy-duty metal stands that are designed to support the weight of a vehicle when it is lifted. They are typically used in conjunction with a car jack to raise the vehicle and then placed under the designated lifting points. While jack stands are strong and reliable, they require careful placement and should only be used by experienced individuals.
3. Tire Stands
Tire stands are specifically designed to support the weight of tires during long-term storage. They are typically made of durable plastic or metal and have a wide base for stability. Tire stands are placed under the tire’s contact patch, distributing the weight evenly and preventing flat spots.
4. Concrete Blocks
Concrete blocks can be used as a temporary solution for tire support. However, they are not ideal due to their weight, potential for unevenness, and lack of specific design for tire support.
Choosing the Right Tire Support
The best type of tire support for your car will depend on several factors, including the length of storage, the weight of your vehicle, and your personal comfort level.
- For short-term storage (less than a few weeks): Wheel chocks may be sufficient.
- For medium-term storage (a few weeks to a few months): Tire stands are a good option.
- For long-term storage (several months or more): Jack stands or tire stands are recommended.
Additional Tips for Storing Your Car
In addition to choosing the right tire support, there are several other steps you can take to ensure your car is properly stored:
1. Clean Your Car Thoroughly:**
Wash and wax your car before storing it to protect the paint from dust and moisture.
2. Inflate Tires to the Proper Pressure:** (See Also: Kenda Tires Any Good)
Check your owner’s manual for the recommended tire pressure.
3. Cover Your Car:**
Use a breathable car cover to protect your car from dust, sunlight, and moisture.
4. Disconnect the Battery:**
Disconnecting the battery will prevent it from draining while the car is not in use.
5. Store in a Dry Location:**
If possible, store your car in a dry, climate-controlled garage.
Recap
Storing your car properly is essential to prevent damage and ensure it’s ready to go when you need it. Choosing the right tire support is a crucial step in this process. Whether you opt for wheel chocks, jack stands, tire stands, or another option, make sure it can adequately support the weight of your vehicle and prevent flat spots. By following these tips and taking the necessary precautions, you can confidently store your car for any length of time. (See Also: Does Triple A Patch Tires)
Frequently Asked Questions: What To Put Under Tires When Storing Car
What is the purpose of putting something under tires when storing a car?
Putting something under your car’s tires when storing it helps to prevent flat spots from forming on the tires. Tires can lose their shape and develop flat spots if they sit in the same position for extended periods. This can make it harder to drive smoothly when you retrieve your car.
What are some common materials used to support tires during storage?
Some common materials include wood blocks, concrete blocks, tire chocks, or even sturdy pieces of cardboard. The key is to choose something that is stable, level, and won’t damage your tires.
How many blocks or supports should I use per tire?
It’s generally recommended to use two blocks or supports per tire, placed evenly on either side. This helps to distribute the weight evenly and prevent the tire from sinking or rolling.
Can I use anything to put under my tires?
While many materials can work, avoid using anything soft or compressible like foam or blankets. These materials won’t provide adequate support and could actually damage your tires over time.
How long can a car safely be stored on blocks?
There’s no hard and fast rule, but it’s generally safe to store a car on blocks for several months. However, if you plan to store your car for an extended period, it’s a good idea to check the tires periodically and rotate them to prevent flat spots from forming.
