How To Get My Car Ready For Long Term Airport Parking?

[Gyvybe]

Hi,
I will be leaving my car for just over two weeks at one of London's airport parking providers and was wondering if I need to do anything in preparation, such as checking the tire pressure or making sure there's x amount of petrol in it?

Do you think I should also take photos of the actual car just for the record before leaving it with a parking provider?

Please help as haven't left my car at an airport before.
Many thanks!

[gingejbee]

Make a note of the mileage...these cars can go for long drives, by themselves apparently!

[RATTER15]

No need to pay any particular attention to anything really, 2 weeks isn't long term, just make sure it is serviceable as you would to drive it.

[TWR]

Leave a set of Jump Leads in the boot.

[boxtops]

Make sure you close the windows and leave nothing of value in it (we left one of our windows open a few months back, and the rain got in). Other than that - nothing. Some of the car parks warn you that because they shift the cars around, you may find extra mileage used while you've been away.

We use airport parking all the time - not a problem.

[bookbinder]

I've use airport car parks a few times, and I agree with the other answerers: you don't need to do anything special to your car before you leave it. Note the fuel gauge when you hand the key over, and walk around it to give it the once-over when you get it back.

[sigma]

Don't leave the interior light on. That's from experience.

[Hopkirk]

I used to work at an airport long term car park, so from experience could I suggest the following which are often forgotten.

Put the handbrake on, so it can't roll away. (I suggest also leave it in gear)
Close the windows.
Close the doors.
Take the key out of the ignition.

OK OK, so they are obvious, but you would be amazed how often they are forgotten!

Finally, note down where you parked it.

[Gyvybe]

Thanks for your feedback! Some great tips there.

[jomifl]

I heard a story (probably apocryphal) about someone who thought his car would be safer long term, parked in an airport parking garage. So, having left his car in the said garage went off to catch his flight. Just before embarkation realised that he had left something vital in the car, went back to the garage just as the engine was being removed.

Consider having the following items:
Locking wheel nuts.
Steering wheel lock
Emergency battery power pack
A set of jump leads.
A tyre inflator
Spare windscreen wipers and arms
Put loose items in the boot.