Long Term Storage

[Porfeo]

Hey guys, this Sunday I leave on a two month long trip with my whole family. I wanted to know what is the best way to store the car, and what I should do before I go to make sure the car is in top shape when I return.
I know the basics, like not leaving the handbrake on since it will stick, etc. However I did want to know what the best procedure is to avoid hurting the car when firing it back up in two month's time.
I have an open garage, meaning there is a roof so sunlight and rain won't touch it, however there is the issue of wind, pollen etc.
Anything suggestions or any special procedures needed for the battery, oil, fuel, or due to the fact that it has Direct Injection etc?
I am sorry if this is a newbish question, but since we don't have harsh winters here in Mexico, I drive all my cars all year and I have never had to store a car for this long.

Thanks
Porfeo

 

[dshib]

Uhm, tips that i have are

-change oil and filter
-disconnect battery (which could be a problem since ur car is outside, and your alarm wont work)
-wash and wax, then cover with a car cover
-make sure the coolant is topped off

 

[Sergius64]

I second 'disconnect the battery' tip. I used to leave my old 323 on a parking lot for months when I was in college. Coming back to it to drive back home after everyone else left the campus and finding out that the battery is dead sux.

 

[Kain]

You shouldn't need to do this for just two months, but here are my tips for long-term storage:

1. Fill gas tank to minimize condensation
2. Treat gas with Sta-bil
3. Disconn neg terminal on battery
4. Prop up each corner on jackstands and remove wheels to prevent flatspotting the tires

 

[Jimmy Mac!]

Also, keep in mind, (depending how dusty it is...and windy). If you "tarp" a car for a while in a dusty/windy environment, you will receive numerous scratches on your paint from the tarp (cover) flapping against the surface. FACT.

 

[Porfeo]

Thanks for the advice guys! I do realize two months isn't an incredibly long amount of time, however I do like to take care of the car as best as possible.

 

[oaklandopen]

i would also disconnect the spark plug wires so when you turn the key it kinda primes the oil pressure first, when you get back from your trip. that way all the oil that has left all the chambers and valleys above the oil pan can start shooting right back up through them again before you actually start the engine.