Back for the Season: Post-Summer-Storage Service Checklist

Before you start the vehicle

• Walk around and look underneath. Check for puddles or drips (oil, coolant or brake fluid), low-looking tires and debris such as palm fronds packed around the windshield base or sunroof area.
• Open the hood. Look for nesting material, droppings, chewed wiring or chewed insulation. Rodents and insects often move into parked vehicles during a Florida summer. If you find chewed wires, do not drive; have the vehicle inspected.
• Check tire pressures cold. Tires lose pressure over time. Inflate to the pressures on the driver's door jamb placard before driving.
• Look at the tire sidewalls. Months of heat and sun can accelerate cracking. Cracks or bulges mean the tire needs a professional look before you drive.

Battery: the most common post-storage problem

Modern Land Rovers keep several systems awake while parked, including the alarm and connected services, and that slowly drains the 12-volt battery. After a long summer, you may see a slow start, a no-start, or a string of warning messages.

• If it won't start, follow the jump-start procedure in your owner's handbook exactly. Connection points and steps vary by model.
• Mild hybrid (MHEV) models have both a 12-volt battery and a 48-volt hybrid battery. The 12-volt battery still needs to be healthy for the vehicle to wake up and start. Learn more about Land Rover mild hybrid technology.
• Plug-in hybrid and electric models should be charged before driving if the high-voltage battery has been sitting at a low charge.
• Even if it starts, a deeply discharged battery may be weakened. A battery test during your post-storage visit tells you whether it needs replacing before it strands you.

Next summer: ask our service team about using a battery maintainer while you are away.

Tires and flat spots

A vehicle that sits in one spot for months can develop temporary flat spots where the tires meet the ground. You may feel a vibration for the first few miles. Usually it smooths out as the tires warm up. If vibration continues after a short drive, have the tires and balance checked.

A/C, odors and mold

South Florida humidity and a closed cabin are a recipe for musty smells. If you notice an odor when the A/C first runs:

• Have the cabin air filter inspected and replaced if needed.
• Ask about cleaning the A/C evaporator, where moisture and mold can collect.
• Check for damp carpets, which can point to a leak or a clogged drain.

If the A/C is blowing warm instead, read why a car A/C blows hot air, then have it checked before the next hot spell.

On your first drive

• Brakes: A light layer of rust on the rotors is normal after sitting and usually clears after a few gentle stops. Persistent grinding, pulling or a pulsing pedal needs inspection.
• Warning lights: Note any message that stays on after the first few minutes and mention it when you book service.
• Fuel: If the tank was left low, fill up with fresh fuel.
• Wipers: Florida sun degrades rubber. Replace blades that streak or chatter.

Software updates and open recalls

• Software: Many Land Rover models receive software-over-the-air (SOTA) updates. Updates may be waiting when you return. See how Land Rover automatic software updates work.
• Recalls: Check for open recalls with your 17-character VIN using Land Rover's VIN recall search. Our service department can complete recall work during your visit.

Was a scheduled service due while you were away?

Land Rover service intervals are based on time as well as mileage, so a vehicle that barely moved can still be due. If your service indicator came on over the summer, combine your post-storage check with your scheduled maintenance. See our Land Rover maintenance schedule for what is typically included.

Book your post-storage check at Land Rover Palm Beach

Our 32-bay service department at 7550 Okeechobee Blvd works on the full Land Rover and Range Rover lineup. Service hours are Monday through Thursday, 7:30 a.m. to 7 p.m.; Friday, 7:30 a.m. to 6 p.m.; and Saturday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Battery test and charging-system check
• Tire inspection, pressure set and balance check if needed
• Cabin air filter and A/C odor inspection
• Inspection for rodent or pest damage
• Brake and fluid-leak inspection
• Software and recall check

Ask your service advisor which of these items apply to your vehicle and what each costs before work begins.

Post-storage FAQs