Vehicle Storage

If the vehicle will not be used for a long time (more than one month), prepare it properly for storage. Following the instructions below will help prevent damage to the vehicle and make it easier to return it to normal use. The best storage conditions are in an enclosed building.

Fill the fuel tank completely.

Replace the engine oil and the oil filter.

Wash the vehicle exterior, then wipe the body thoroughly dry.

Clean the vehicle interior. Make sure the upholstery and floor mats are completely dry.

Release the parking brake. Move the shift lever to the reverse position.

Place wheel chocks under the rear wheels.

If the vehicle will be stored for a long period, place it on stands so that all wheels are fully off the ground.

Open one window slightly (if the vehicle is stored indoors).

Disconnect the cables from the battery terminals.

Place rolled paper towels or a cloth under the wiper arms so that the blades do not touch the windshield surface.

To prevent sticking, apply a protective silicone compound from an aerosol can to the rubber seals of all door openings, including the luggage compartment door. Then apply polish to the paint along the door perimeter in the areas that contact the rubber door opening seals and the luggage compartment door seal.

Cover the vehicle with a breathable, porous cover, such as one made of cotton fabric. Using dense, impermeable covers, such as those made of plastic film, will damage the body paint due to high humidity under the cover.

If possible, start the engine periodically and run it long enough to warm it up to operating temperature (the cooling fan should switch on and off twice).

It is advisable to perform these operations at least once a month.

For diesel engine versions only

If the vehicle has been stored for a long time, water may accumulate in the fuel system and the engine may not start.

In this case, it may be necessary to drain water from the fuel filter (see page 384).

If the vehicle has been stored for 1 year or more, before returning it to normal use, perform early all maintenance checks that are due every 24 months or 40,000 km in accordance with the vehicle maintenance schedule* (see page 355). Oil and filter replacement, as well as replacement of other operating fluids specified in the maintenance schedule, may be omitted (if the service period or actual mileage has not reached the values specified in the schedule).

*: The maintenance schedule for vehicles supplied to European countries, Australia and New Zealand is given in the Service Booklet.