[dlee9]

Hi,

I apologize if there is a post about this, please link me (I couldn't find it!!)
I have an IS250 but I will be out of town for 6 months to a year, I don't want anyone to drive my car even to keep the battery going. Could someone please tell me what to do if there is anything I need to do before going away? Should I disconnect the battery? And what do I do when I get back and the car doesn't respond to my smartKey? Can I get a new battery from costco or do I need to tow it to Lexus (haha, not that I would). Sorry if this is a total noob question!

ALSO, does anyone recommend a certain brand for car cover??

an

 

[02isjw]

You could buy what they call a trickle charger, it would keep the battery charged while you're away.

 

[02isjw]

This is the one I have, I used it when I stored cars over the winter.

 

[azn4life]

You should run some fuel stabilizers in the tank

 

[DizBukHaPeter]

Check out stabil fuel stabilizer, you dont want the gas to break down and gum up your engine.

 

[cdeslandes]

I'd do the following:

• Fill the tank and add fuel stabilizer, then drive a few miles to make sure the stabilizer has made its way through the entire fuel system.
• Change the oil. Dirty engine oil can be acidic, you don't want that in your oil pan for months.
• Get a car wash and wax the car, to protect it during storage. Cover it with a car cover.
• Jack up the car on four jack stands, to avoid developing flat spots on your tires.
• Install a battery trickle charger as mentioned above.

I assume the car will be garaged. If not, consider renting a garage or self-storage space to keep your car safe and clean during your absence.

 

[scottina08]

I'd do the following:

• Fill the tank and add fuel stabilizer, then drive a few miles to make sure the stabilizer has made its way through the entire fuel system.
• Change the oil. Dirty engine oil can be acidic, you don't want that in your oil pan for months.
• Get a car wash and wax the car, to protect it during storage. Cover it with a car cover.
• Jack up the car on four jack stands, to avoid developing flat spots on your tires.
• Install a battery trickle charger as mentioned above.

I assume the car will be garaged. If not, consider renting a garage or self-storage space to keep your car safe and clean during your absence.

you beat me too it...GREAT advice. I store my VR4
with this procedure every winter.....