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Tips for keeping gas “fresh” for vehicles sitting idle

Keep the gas tank filled at three-fourths or full. Gasoline cans and fuel tanks can produce condensation with temperature changes, placing water droplets into the fuel. By keeping the tank or can full, there is less space for air and therefore it will minimize the possibility of condensation. If storing gasoline, use a Department of Transportation-approved can.
Gasoline that sits for too long, especially if it is not stored in a sealed container, can go bad. If gasoline will be sitting in the tank of a vehicle for more than a few months, particularly if it contains ethanol, AAA recommends using a fuel stabilizer such as STA-BIL®. This can be done by anyone and is as simple as fueling up a vehicle. After adding a stabilizer, drive the car for five to ten miles to ensure that the stabilized fuel circulates throughout the fuel system.
Retailers that sell gasoline use sealed tanks in addition to having their own methods for monitoring water and other contaminants.
AAA does not recommend drivers try to empty the gasoline from their vehicle’s tank on their own. Gasoline is hazardous, and must be disposed of properly in accordance with local and federal regulations. Drivers should contact their local municipality to learn about options for proper disposal.

Easy DIY tips to keep a car in good shape during lockdown/quarantine

AAA recommends drivers take the time to become familiar with their entire owner’s manual, but at a minimum, the recommended maintenance schedules.
To ensure the vehicle is ready for those that must still drive during lockdowns or ‘shelter in place’ orders, AAA recommends vehicle owners do the following:
- Consider adding a fuel stabilizer and preservative such as STA-BIL® - this can be done by anyone and is as simple as fueling up a vehicle.
- Keep the gas tank filled at three-fourths or full. Full tanks provide less space for air and help minimize the possibility of condensation.
- Check fluid levels (i.e. oil, brake fluid, automatic transmission fluid, power steering fluid and windshield wiper fluid). Consult the owner’s manual for specifics on how to do this for individual vehicles.
  - If fluids are low and/or need to be changed, visit a AAA Approved Auto Repair facility for service. Make sure to call first for shop hours and procedures for bringing in a car for service.

Advice (in addition to the DIY tips) for when your vehicle is off-the-road for an extended time period

Wash and wax the vehicle exterior, and vacuum and clean the interior. Make sure the vehicle is completely dry before putting it into storage.
Store the vehicle indoors in a cool, dark and dry location. If this is not possible, consider a portable parking structure or “car bag.” At the very least, use a quality multi-layer car cover that can “breathe” and will not trap moisture.
If the vehicle will be exposed to significant moisture, use desiccant packs inside the car to help keep everything dry.
If the car is due for a brake fluid or coolant change, have the work done before placing the vehicle in storage. Deteriorated fluids can lead to rust and corrosion.
If there is a likelihood of mice where you are storing the car, seal off the tail pipe, engine air filter inlet and any other readily accessible openings where rodents might enter and take up residence. Steel wool will work, but copper wool is even better because rodents dislike its taste. Other rodent prevention methods include traps, poisons and repellants. Many claim dryer sheets and moth balls are also effective, but hard evidence is difficult to come by.

When driving into a gas station, select a pump located at the end to minimize close contact with others filling their tank.
Use disinfecting wipes to wipe down the gas pump, screen and touchpad.
Use gloves, or if you don’t have them, a plastic bag when touching the pump.
After filling-up, use wipes and hand sanitizer to wipe down your hands and credit card.

After moving your vehicle to a safe place, AAA recommends all motorists involved in a crash follow these steps:

Assist the injured and follow CDC guidelines with regard to social distancing. If medical attention is needed, call 9-1-1. If medical attention is not needed, make sure you are not in imminent danger at the roadside.
Notify the police and submit a report.
Document the scene and exchange information. Consider sharing insurance and license information verbally, with each of you writing it down.
Notify your insurance carrier.
If your car needs to be towed, consider making arrangements for your own transportation.

If you make the personal decision to travel longer distances by vehicle, AAA recommends:

Before traveling, talk to your health care provider.
Understand the impact COVID-19 has on cities and states you are traveling through and if there are any restrictions in place.
Travel with all necessary travel documentation, including health insurance cards.
Before hitting the road, do your research:
- Identify if rest stops are open along your route. This varies state to state. Gas stations, which are essential businesses, may be your best option for restroom facilities.
- Consider that restaurants and fast food dining rooms may be closed, though drive-thru and carry-out could be an option.
- Contact hotels ahead of time to ensure they are open.

No matter where you travel, make sure you are taking everyday preventive measures to help prevent the spread of respiratory diseases.

AAA's Tips for Idle Vehicles