Before we start discussing how to store your Figaro, it's important to clarify what we mean by storing your car. Generally, experts recommend driving a car at least every two to three weeks. This ensures that all the mechanical and electrical components are kept functioning properly. However, if you are using your Figaro less than that, you may be at risk of encountering problems.
IN ASSOCIATION WITH THE FIGARO SHOP WE BRING YOU THE FOLLOWING TIPS
1 - Clean
When it comes to car storage advice, rule one is to clean your car. Bird poo, dirt and dead bugs can be acidic and slowly eat away at paint and chrome work so wash, polish and wax thoroughly. Clean the wheel arches and undercarriage, and if you have one, use an air compressor to blast away water beads.
2 - Security
It’s important to keep your car secure while it’s laid up and there are a few precautions you can take to ensure this. You may also wish to consider buying a steering wheel lock, which will act as a deterrent to thieves. If the car is in a garage, increase the security of the door by installing ground or side locking bolts.
3 - Storage
The Figaro doesn’t like the dampness (especially the roof). It must be kept out of the rain by using a cover, make sure it’s lightweight, breathable, and preferably tailored to the Figaro, elasticated to fit snugly. A good tip is to tie a rag or cloth around the mirrors to stop the cover from rubbing on the paint. Remove every few weeks to stop a build-up of dew. Better still leaving under a lean-too or better still in a garage. Ask anyone for car storage advice and they’ll tell you moisture is an invisible enemy - and by the time you’ve discovered the damage excess damp can do, it’s too late. Storing your Figaro in a garage with airflow will help, and so can a dehumidifier, but don’t set it too high as it can draw the moisture out of everything around it. Consider placing silica gel packs, or a container of baking soda, in a footwell to absorb moisture and leave a window open to prevent condensation or a musty smell. Leave the roof up as folded the roof will invite mould between the lining. Not everyone has a lot of choices when it comes to where they park their car, particularly those who use street parking. However, if you do have some options, think about where it’s best to keep your car for a long period.
4 - Inflate your tyres
Going nowhere takes its toll on tyres, but there are several ways to prevent what’s known as flat-spotting - where the tyre loses its shape. The easiest is to pump them up to the maximum recommended air pressure. 165/70R12/77S 2.0 BAR/29PSI S
5 - Lubricate
key moving parts Using WED40, lubricate door locks, latches, and hinges to prevent them from freezing and sticking. This can save costly repairs and ensure smooth operation.
6 - Don’t use the handbrake
Avoid leaving the handbrake engaged during long-term storage as this may cause your brakes to seize up over time. Instead, leave the gear shift in the ‘P’ position. You may feel more comfortable, if there is a slight incline, for example, placing wheel chocks in front and behind each tyre to prevent any unexpected and potentially dangerous movement
7 - Disconnect the battery
A battery will naturally discharge over time. If left in the cold for a period any car can struggle and the Nissan Figaro is no different. We strongly recommend simply fitting a battery Isolator switch on your Figaro.
8 - Inspect for rust
Given the susceptibility of the wheel arches and chassis of a Nissan Figaro to rust, a thorough inspection before winter sets in can save a lot of problems, time and expense later on. When it is time to get back on the road you’ll want to check all your ancillary functions are working correctly:
9 - Occasional Drives
If weather permits, it’s beneficial to drive your Nissan Figaro occasionally. This keeps the mechanical parts lubricated and in good working order, avoiding issues that arise from long-term inactivity
10 - Lift wipers from the glass
Our final tip for car storage advice is as simple as they come. Rubber tends to fuse itself to glass when left unattended so it’s vital to keep the two apart when being left alone for so long - otherwise, the rubber will deteriorate and become useless for wiping away rain.
Read more: www.figaroownersclub.com/stor...