Extended storage recommendations

[prathman]

Technically this isn't for either of our Vibes, but it's somewhat related. Since my wife recently purchased a Vibe to replace her Camry, I've let the insurance lapse on our old '87 Nova and will be using the Camry instead.The Nova is a Corolla clone (built in the same NUMMI plant that now makes the Vibe) with a 1.6 liter Toyota engine that has about 230K miles on it. Transmission is nominally a 5-spd manual although only the first four speeds are really functional. I'm looking for recommendations on any procedures to follow while the car is sitting idle for the next year or two. I figure I'll change the oil, add some gasoline stabilizer (any particular type?), and start it up every month or so.Thanks for any suggestions.

[kevera]

I have a muscle car that goes away for storage every year,so I am familiar with the storage routine.The gas stabilizer is recommended as is changing most of the fluids.It wouldn't be a bad idea to disconnect the battery.Put it on jack stands or concrete blocks to save the tires from flat spots.I would also put an air freshener in the interior to keep thing smelling fresh.You could also use fogging spray which is an oil spay to keep it from rusting.To give you a word of advice,are you going to keep the car or will it sit till it rots.I've had a couple of cars that I thought I would keep and ended up sending them to the scrapyard.Good luck

[prathman]

Thanks for the suggestions. The car will be kept inside the garage so I don't expect rust to be an issue (our climate is pretty dry anyway). The Camry has some internal engine problems and I'm not expecting it to pass its next emissions inspection (due in two years), so I want to keep the Nova in storage until then.