Long-Term Vehicle Storage Guidelines (L-SB-0031-15)

Parking and Paint Protection

• Storage areas should be paved, well lit, and secure. If your off-site storage lot is not paved, spread gravel down to minimize mud and dust. Be sure vehicles are driven carefully when moving them to or from a long-term lot. This will help minimize damage to the paint finish rom road grit or gravel.
• Park vehicles from right to left at least three feet apart. Leave enough space front and rear to easily walk between rows.
• HVAC vent controls should be set to "Recirc" to minimize dust and odor intrusion.
• Make sure the plastic door edge protectors are in place and fold in the side view mirror (if applicable).
• Anti-rust covers or anti-rust film should remain on vehicle during storage.
  1. Anti-rust covers (behind wheel) should be removed during Pre-Delivery Service (PDS).
  2. Anti-rust film (applied to wheel) should be removed just prior to customer delivery.
• Wash vehicles frequently.

Battery

• Turn off all electrical accessories, make sure windows and sunroof are closed and check that the transmission is in "Park" (first or reverse for manual transmission vehicles). Do NOT apply the parking brake.
• Test batteries monthly (more often in high heat or cold areas), using the Digital Battery System Analyzer (P/N 00002-V8150-KIT). Refer to Service Bulletin PG001-06  , "Battery Maintenance for In-Stock Vehicles & Pre-Delivery,"  for complete battery maintenance procedures.
• To reduce battery drain during long-term storage, remove the battery ground (-) cable of each vehicle and reinstall just before delivery to the customer. Locate the current PDS Service Bulletin on TIS for complete details.
• If a hybrid vehicle is put into storage, the state of charge (SOC) of its HV battery and auxiliary battery will gradually decrease. To prevent the auxiliary battery from becoming discharged during storage, proper maintenance is required. Refer to the applicable "Maintenance for HV & Auxiliary Batteries"  Service Bulletin for procedure and additional information.

Tire Inflation Pressure

If the vehicle is parked for long periods without being moved, a flat spot may develop on each tire surface in contact with the ground, even if the tires are inflated to specification. Tire inflation pressure should be checked once a month.

Tire inflation pressure for storage only: 45 psi  .

Parts Rust

If the vehicles in your storage area are exposed to a sea breeze and/or significant precipitation, corrosion with rust in some parts may occur.

If rust is found, remove it, and treat it by applying rust inhibitor to prevent recurrence.

Engine Starting and Vehicle Movement

If the vehicle is stored over an extended period of time, starting and running the engine periodically will ensure smooth running operation.

1. If the vehicle is stored over an extended period of time, starting and running the engine periodically will ensure smooth running operation.
   NOTE: Be sure to allow sufficient clearance at the rear of the vehicle to prevent other vehicles stored behind from getting damaged by exhaust gas.
2. Move the vehicle at least 30 feet to lubricate the transmission and differential and prevent tire flat-spot damage.
3. Raise engine speed above 3,000 rpm (N/A for hybrid vehicles) 10 times to eliminate moisture from the exhaust.

A/C Compressor Lubrication

To minimize the possibility of damage to the A/C compressor while storing a vehicle, perform the following recommended maintenance procedures at least once a month to lubricate the compressor.

1. Turn off A/C and blower switches prior to starting engine.
2. Start and warm up the engine until engine idle drops below 1,000 rpm.
3. Turn on the A/C system (including the rear A/C) using the following settings:
   • A/C Switch: ON
   • Blower Speed: High
   • Engine Speed: Below 1,000 rpm
4. Keep A/C ON with engine idling for at least one minute (in dual A/C vehicles, leave on for two minutes).
5. Turn OFF A/C system and stop engine.

Disc Brake Rotor Surface Rust Removal

The brake rotors are made of cast iron, so they may show gradual buildup of surface rust during long-term storage. At least once every 2 months, drive the vehicle and use the brakes normally, stopping from about 30 mph at least 20 times. This regular usage will help prevent severe rust buildup and the possibility of unwanted brake vibration concerns due to rust.

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

Courtesy of © TOYOTA, LICENSE AGREEMENT TMS1002

Summary Chart for Long-Term Storage

Below are items that should be checked periodically and their frequency.

A combination of proper vehicle receipt, Pre-Delivery Service, and vehicle storage is the only way to maintain factory fresh vehicles. Lexus' goal is to deliver 100% problem-free cars and trucks. With your commitment to quality and customer satisfaction, we can reach that goal. Review this bulletin often and be sure new employees are aware of the policies and procedures outlined herein, as individual training in proper inspection, Pre-Delivery Service, and storage and handling techniques are essential to ensure high delivery quality.

Here is a list of additional resources, which will help you with vehicle receipt, inspection, and storage procedures.

Reference and Training Materials

• CRIB Bulletin #165  , "Acid Rain Finish Damage - Prevention and Repair" 
• UoT e-Learning Course E257 Vehicle Delivery Quality - Paint Finish Repair
• Service Bulletin BO015-91  , "Prevention and Repair of Acid Rain Damage" 
• Service Bulletin BO029-91  , "New Vehicle Washing Schedule for Paint Protection" 
• Service Bulletin PG001-06  , "Battery Maintenance for In-Stock Vehicles & Pre-Delivery" 
• Service Bulletin PA001-05  , "Iron Particle Rust Contamination Repair" 
• Service Bulletin PG004-94  , "Dealer Removal Procedures for Rapgard™ Protective Film" 
• Service Bulletin PG006-07  , "Removal of Tyvek® Protective Film" 
• Service Bulletin PD001-04  , "Wheel Film for Brake Rotor Rust Prevention"