Storing a vehicle: What you need to know

What’s the difference between storing a vehicle and scrapping it?

Storing your vehicle means putting it away temporarily, for example over the winter, with the intention of using it again later. Scrapping a vehicle is permanent: it will never be back on the road.

When should you take the steps to store or take a vehicle out of storage?

You can request to store your vehicle as soon as you’re planning to put it away, for example the same day or a few days ahead of time. Taking a vehicle out of storage, on the other hand, is done at the time you want to put it back on the road.

How do you store a vehicle?

Motorcycle, RV, convertible, snowmobile … these steps apply to any seasonal vehicle and ensure safe storage.

• Let the SAAQ know of your intention before storing your vehicle. Have your registration certificate on hand. You can submit your storage request:
  • Online on the SAAQ website
  • By phone at 1-800-361-7620
  • At an SAAQ service centre
  • At a CAA-Quebec Registration Centre
• Notify your auto insurer of your intention to store your vehicle. If you have the CAA-Quebec No-Stress Policy® for a car or RV, fill out the online storage request form. No notice to your insurer is required for seasonal vehicles (ATVs, snowmobiles, trailers or motorcycles); the premium is already adjusted accordingly, and no credit will be given.
• Choose a dry, secure storage location away from public roadways: a garage, private yard or rented space.
• Prepare your vehicle:

• Give it a thorough cleaning. You’ll find cleaning products and waxes at the CAA-Quebec Boutique.
• Change the engine oil and oil filter.
• Disconnect or remove the battery (you can even recharge it once or twice during the winter).
• Check the antifreeze level and concentration.
• Fill the tank and add a fuel stabilizer, as the vehicle will be sitting unused for several months;
• Adjust the tire pressure to keep the tires from becoming deformed during storage. You can also place the vehicle on blocks or move it slightly from time to time to prevent uneven wear.

Good to know: The licence plate must stay on the vehicle.

Storing an electric vehicle

To store your electric car, follow the same general steps, but pay special attention to the battery. Check your owner’s manual for the optimal charge level for the high-voltage battery (often 60% to 80%). Make sure the 12V battery is maintained with an external charger if needed.

How can you save money when storing a vehicle?

• Stick to the storage time limit. A vehicle can be put back on the road within one year minus a day without a mechanical inspection. Keep track of the date to avoid extra fees.
• Time your dates with the start or end of a month to avoid unnecessary fees. For taking a vehicle out of storage, aim for the start of a full month.
• You may also be eligible for a partial reimbursement of your vehicle’s or RV’s registration fees, depending on when you store it.

Do I need to keep insurance while my vehicle is in storage?

Yes. Even while in storage, your vehicle can still be exposed to theft, fire, vandalism or property damage. Check with your auto insurer to see if minimum coverage applies during the storage period.

How do you take a vehicle out of storage?

Taking a vehicle out of storage happens in two steps: first you need to reactivate the registration with the SAAQ, then make sure your insurance coverage is in effect before getting back on the road. A few vehicle checks are also recommended after several months in storage.

Steps to follow

• Reactivate the registration with the SAAQ. Ideally, plan your request for the start of a full month to avoid extra fees. You can choose the same options as when you stored the vehicle.
• Notify your auto insurer of the date you’re putting the vehicle back on the road. A return-to-road date is usually set when you store the vehicle. If you get back on the road on the planned date, you usually don’t need to do anything—your insurance coverage is automatically reinstated. If you change the date, contact your insurer. If you have the CAA-Quebec No-Stress Policy® for a car or RV, you can also fill out an online request form to take your vehicle out of storage.
• Inspect your vehicle. What should you check when taking a vehicle out of storage? Start by checking the tire pressure, looking for fluid leaks and any visible damage. An annual mechanical inspection is also recommended, particularly for the spark plugs, battery, brakes and track, depending on the type of vehicle. You can have the mechanical inspection and maintenance done at a CAA-Quebec Approved Auto Repair Service. Some shops specialize in recreational vehicles. CAA-Quebec members earn a CAA Dollars rebate.
• Get back on the road gradually. Listen for any unusual noises and make sure the vehicle is running normally.

How do you take a snowmobile out of storage?

As winter arrives, several steps are required to put your snowmobile back into service.

• Register your snowmobile with the SAAQ, whether or not you ride on trails. You’ll need your registration certificate and driver’s licence.
• Insure the vehicle (minimum $1 million in civil liability coverage to ride on trails or private land).
• Renew your trail permit with the Fédération des clubs de motoneigistes du Québec (FCMQ).

What do you need to do to scrap a vehicle?

Here’s the correct procedure for scrapping a vehicle:

• Notify the SAAQ that you’re scrapping the vehicle. Have the vehicle’s registration certificate on hand. This can be done online, by phone, at an SAAQ service outlet or at a CAA-Quebec registration centre (see links above).
• Remove the licence plate once the transaction is complete.
• Notify your insurer to receive a possible reimbursement.
• Keep the registration certificate marked “scrapped vehicle.”

Good to know: If you want to put the vehicle back on the road later, a full mechanical inspection at your expense will be required. Members save at CAA-Quebec Authorized Vehicle Inspection Centres.

FAQ – Storing and taking a vehicle out of storage

1. What happens if the vehicle has been in storage for over a year?After 12 months in storage, the SAAQ often requires a full mechanical inspection to reactivate the registration. Your insurer may also ask for a vehicle condition check before reinstating coverage.

2. How does the registration fee reimbursement work?If you store a vehicle, a partial reimbursement is possible depending on the date of your request. It’s calculated on a prorated basis for the remainder of the paid period and depends on the type of vehicle (car, RV, snowmobile, etc.).

3. How do you protect your car from rodents and insects?
Cover the engine and air intake openings with mesh or fine netting. Avoid leaving food or other attractive items in the vehicle. Finally, check for nests or signs of activity before starting the vehicle.