Electric Vehicle Storage: The Ultimate Guide to Protecting Your EV Investment During Extended Parking
As electric vehicles become increasingly popular across Long Island and beyond, EV owners are discovering that long-term storage requires different considerations than traditional gasoline vehicles. Whether you’re planning a winter getaway, storing your vehicle during harsh weather, or simply parking for an extended period, proper EV storage techniques can preserve your battery health, maintain vehicle performance, and protect your investment.
The Critical Importance of Battery Management
Storing an EV means maintaining and not permanently damaging a large, costly, high-voltage battery, and it’s best to avoid the vehicle spending too long at extremes (above 80 percent charge or below 10 percent charge) which can damage the battery. Most manufacturers suggest maintaining a charge of around 50 percent, with Ford recommending keeping the state of charge around 50% if storing the vehicle for more than 30 days.
The charging approach varies by manufacturer. Keeping the EV plugged in lets you set the vehicle’s charge limit to 50 percent, allowing the EV to maintain temperatures and top itself off as needed. However, Ford recommends leaving the car unplugged and keeping the state of charge around 50% if storing the vehicle for more than 30 days, and they also recommend disconnecting the negative terminal of the 12-volt battery to prevent depletion and damage.
Choosing the Right Storage Location
The best option is an enclosed garage, protecting the EV from warm and cold weather extremes and precipitation. A protected parking garage or carport would also be a good option. The location where you park your EV for long-term storage plays a crucial role in its overall well-being. It’s recommended to store your EV in a shady spot out of direct sunlight, especially if you live in a warm climate. Constant exposure to high temperatures can lead to battery degradation over time, which can shorten the life of your EV’s battery and affect its performance.
For EV owners in Nassau and Suffolk Counties who need professional storage solutions, facilities like legacy motor storage services understand the unique requirements of high-value vehicles. Based in Port Jefferson Station, NY, Legacy Motors and Marine recognized that collectors in Nassau and Suffolk Counties needed a storage solution that matched the caliber of their investments. Their storage facility was designed specifically for enthusiasts who understand that preservation isn’t just about protection—it’s about maintaining the legacy these assets represent. Every climate-controlled bay, every security protocol, and every service offering reflects their commitment to treating prized possessions with the same care owners do.
Essential Pre-Storage Preparation
Before storing your EV, several important steps ensure optimal condition during storage. An important way to preserve battery life is to disable as many background processes as possible. You can also turn off unnecessary features in your EV to prevent energy drain. For example, some electric cars have a feature that sets the car’s interior temperature, which can be turned off if the vehicle isn’t in use.
Another strategy is to fill the tires to the maximum PSI permitted in the owner’s manual. Try to move your vehicle at least 25 ft every 15 days to lubricate working parts and prevent corrosion. You should thoroughly wash and clean your car – and make sure it’s completely dry before storing it. Next, place a couple of fabric softener dryer-sheets inside your interior and cargo areas. For whatever reason, rodents can’t stand the pungent smell and stay away, so they won’t be chewing on sensitive wiring. Cover your electric vehicle with a quality car cover to protect it from dirt and dust, and fill your tires to the maximum suggested pressure listed in the owner’s manual to prevent flat spots on the tires.
Managing the 12-Volt System
While much attention focuses on the main traction battery, the 12-volt system requires equal consideration. There will be some drainage over more prolonged periods from sources such as background processes and the vehicle’s 12V battery. Some Hyundai vehicles come with a “12V reset” that “jump starts” the 12-volt battery from the main traction battery, meaning there’s essentially no need for maintenance. For vehicles without the 12-volt reset, a trickle charger can be used.
A 12 volt battery that is fully charged and disconnected will stay charged for many months longer than a connected one, especially in a modern car. Professional storage facilities understand these requirements, with battery tender connections included as part of indoor storage service. Dead batteries are one of the most common problems with stored vehicles, especially exotic cars with sophisticated electrical systems that draw power even when parked. Battery tenders maintain optimal charge levels without overcharging, ensuring your vehicle starts immediately when you’re ready to drive.
Climate Control and Environmental Protection
Like any other vehicle, an electric car needs protection from weather elements. Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can harm the battery and other components of the car. Therefore, protecting your EV from the elements is advisable whenever possible. Cold weather can make EV batteries work less well. When it’s cold, the battery’s chemical reactions slow down, making it less efficient. This means the battery won’t last as long and the car won’t be able to drive as far on one charge as it would in warmer weather.
Indoor storage provides complete protection from Long Island’s extreme weather conditions, including harsh winters, humid summers, and UV damage from intense sunlight. Outdoor storage exposes your vehicle to temperature swings that can crack leather interiors, fade paint, and cause metal components to rust or corrode. Climate-controlled indoor facility maintains consistent temperature and humidity levels year-round, preventing the deterioration that costs thousands in repairs and reduces your vehicle’s value.
Regular Monitoring and Maintenance
Even if your EV is parked long, regular checks are necessary. Remember this: Identifying potential issues early helps prevent them from becoming major problems. Generally, you can expect to lose a few percentage points of charge every month.
For owners storing vehicles for extended periods, recommendations before storing the vehicle include: 1) Charge or discharge to a 40-50% SOC 2) Unplug the EVSE 3) Disconnect the 12V battery 4) Store in a cool, preferably dry location, and 5) Check on the car at least every 6 months. Top off the 12V battery and charge the car back to a 40% SOC.
Professional Storage Solutions
For EV owners who want complete peace of mind, professional storage facilities offer comprehensive solutions. Legacy Motors and Marine was built by car and boat enthusiasts who understand what it means to own something special. Located in Port Jefferson Station, they’ve created the kind of facility they’d want for their own vehicles. Their team knows the difference between storing a Honda and storing a Ferrari. They understand ground clearance concerns, the importance of battery health, and why paint protection matters more than just keeping things clean.
Electric vehicle storage doesn’t have to be complicated, but it does require attention to detail. By following manufacturer guidelines, maintaining proper battery charge levels, choosing appropriate storage locations, and conducting regular check-ups, EV owners can ensure their vehicles remain in optimal condition during extended parking periods. Whether storing at home or utilizing professional facilities, proper preparation protects both your investment and your peace of mind.