If you live in BC and need to stash your ford vehicle in storage while you travel, then you have come to the right place. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a good idea to just park your car and leave for a month. Vehicles are designed to be driven, and a lot of problems can arise if the proper steps are not taken to preserve them while you are gone.
First, you need to fill up the gas tank. While this is something you may not have thought of, it stops condensation from building up during its stationary period. You should also add a fuel stabilizing agent and go for a spin to distribute the mixture throughout the engine components.
Next, you would wash and wax the vehicle to protect the finish. Shielding it with a car cover (even if it is inside a garage) is another good idea. You can also put a vapor barrier underneath it. A 4-mil polyethylene drop cloth is recommended. Just lay it on the floor and park on top of it.
Don’t forget to disengage the parking brake to prevent corrosion. If you’re going to be gone for a really long time, you may also want to take off the wheels and raise the vehicle onto jack stands. Finally, disconnect the battery and plug the tailpipe with a rag.
The purpose of a windshield is far more complex than just a barrier for air. This piece of glass is crucial for holding up the roof in the event of a rollover, assisting with airbag deployment, and absorbing the impact of a collision. Ensuring that yours is in good condition is vital for safe driving.
The first tip to keeping the front glass intact is to avoid slamming doors. When a door is shut with excessive force, the vibration causes the windshield to weaken over time. If you already have chips in the glass from rogue rocks, it can make them worse. You should get any flaws repaired immediately as well.
Another preventative measure you can take is to avoid direct sun. If you don’t have a garage or carport to park under, then you should invest in a vehicle cover. Ultraviolet rays can compromise the strength of the glass, and they can even cause discoloration. The wide change in temperature may also make chips larger.
Wiper blades should be switched out with a new set every three to six months, and you should clean them once a week too. Never use ammonia-based solutions. This can cause a tint to form on the glass. Instead, use a product specifically designed for cleaning automobile glass, alcohol, or vinegar.