Not all parking spots are created equal—especially when it comes to long-term car storage in San Diego. Whether you're traveling, deployed, or just don’t need your vehicle for a while, where you leave it can have a major impact on its condition—and your wallet.

At AAAA Auto Storage, we’ve seen the consequences of poor storage decisions for decades. Here's a rundown of the top mistakes to avoid when storing your vehicle, and why trusting a professional facility like ours is a safer bet every time.

1. Curbside Parking Near the Coast

San Diego’s coastal breeze might be refreshing for you—but it’s a nightmare for your car. Parking near the beach exposes your vehicle to salty air and intense UV rays, which can:

Eat away at paint and trim
Corrode metal parts
Fade interior surfaces
Attract sand and dust into air filters and crevices

On top of that, street parking comes with risks of vandalism, break-ins, and city citations, especially in areas with tight residential rules.

2. Leaving It in a Driveway or Garage

We get it—free sounds good. But unless you have someone checking your car weekly, starting the engine, and watching for issues, you're essentially flying blind. Common problems with casual storage include:

Dead batteries
Tire flat-spotting
Rodents or pests nesting under the hood
Missed maintenance reminders

Even a good garage can lack proper airflow and pest protection. And if something happens to the car while it’s under someone else’s care? Awkward.

3. Long-Term Airport or Public Lot Parking

Think you're saving time or money by leaving your car at the airport or a public lot? Think again. These options are expensive, unsecured, and offer no maintenance. You’re likely to return to:

A battery that won’t start
A ticket on your windshield
Dings, scratches, or worse
Hundreds of dollars in parking fees

It’s not long-term storage—it’s long-term exposure.

4. Assuming Covered Means Protected

Just because a spot is covered doesn’t mean your car is protected. Many people rent spaces under canopies or carports thinking it's enough, but without:

Controlled access
Regular battery checks
Pest prevention
Security monitoring

You’re still taking a gamble with your vehicle’s condition.

The Better Option: Professional Car Storage with AAAA

If you want true peace of mind, store your car with San Diego’s trusted experts at AAAA Auto Storage. Here’s what we offer:

Secure, gated facility with concrete flooring
Optional battery maintenance and in-and-out access
Covered and uncovered spots
Family-owned and operated since 1968
Military and student discounts available

Whether you’re gone for a month or a year, we make sure your vehicle stays in top shape and is ready to roll when you are.

Reserve Your Spot Today

Don’t let a poor storage decision turn into an expensive repair bill. Contact us today to learn more or get a free quote.

Where NOT to Store Your Car in San Diego: Common Mistakes That Cost You