Whether you’re stashing away your convertible for the winter or storing a classic car you only take out for special occasions, you might be wondering: Do I still need car insurance if the car is just sitting in storage?
The short answer is yes, but it depends on what kind of coverage you want to maintain—and what risks you’re trying to protect against. Even though your car isn’t on the road, it’s still vulnerable to damage, theft, and other potential losses. Fortunately, there are insurance options specifically designed for stored vehicles, often at a lower cost than full coverage.
Let’s break it down so you can make an informed decision about insuring your car while it’s in storage.
Why Insure a Stored Vehicle?
It’s tempting to think that if your car isn’t being driven, it doesn’t need insurance. But cars in storage can still face risks, such as:
- Theft
- Fire damage
- Vandalism
- Weather-related damage (hail, flooding, etc.)
- Falling objects (tree limbs, tools, debris)
- Rodent infestation or mechanical issues
Without at least some level of insurance, you could be left footing the bill if something goes wrong.
What Kind of Insurance Do You Need for a Stored Car?
When storing a car, you don’t need standard full coverage (which includes liability, collision, and comprehensive coverage). Instead, most people opt for a comprehensive-only policy, sometimes referred to as storage insurance or parked car insurance.
Here’s a look at the key options:
| Type of Coverage | What It Covers | Do You Need It for Storage? |
|---|---|---|
| Liability | Injuries or damages you cause while driving | ❌ Not needed (if car won’t be driven) |
| Collision | Damage from accidents with other vehicles or objects | ❌ Not needed for non-driving vehicles |
| Comprehensive | Theft, fire, weather, vandalism, animal damage | ✅ Highly recommended |
| Uninsured/Underinsured Motorist | Injuries caused by drivers with insufficient insurance | ❌ Not needed if car isn’t on the road |
So, if your car is going to be stationary and unused, comprehensive coverage alone may be sufficient to protect it.
What Is Storage Insurance (Comprehensive-Only Coverage)?
Storage insurance is typically just a comprehensive-only policy that covers non-driving risks. It’s ideal for:
- Seasonal vehicles (motorcycles, convertibles, RVs)
- Classic or collector cars
- Military members storing a car during deployment
- Extended travel periods
- Vehicles undergoing long-term repairs or restoration
This type of policy protects your car against loss without charging you for liability or collision coverage that you don’t need while it’s parked.
Can You Pause or Cancel Regular Insurance Instead?
You might think about canceling your regular auto insurance while the car is in storage to save money. While this sounds logical, it comes with some risks:
1. Coverage Gap
Pausing or canceling your insurance entirely could create a lapse in coverage, which insurance companies frown upon. When you go to reinstate coverage later, you might face higher premiums.
2. Unprotected Vehicle
If something happens while your vehicle is uninsured—say, a garage fire or a break-in—you’ll be responsible for all repairs or replacement costs.
3. State Requirements
Many states legally require registered vehicles to carry a minimum amount of liability insurance—even if they’re not being driven. If you cancel insurance without updating your registration, you could face fines or penalties.
Steps to Insure a Car in Storage
If you’re ready to store your vehicle and want to ensure it’s protected, here’s what you should do:
1. Call Your Insurance Company
Contact your insurer and ask about a comprehensive-only policy or storage insurance. Explain that the car won’t be driven for a specific period. Many insurers are willing to adjust your policy temporarily.
2. Remove Liability and Collision Coverage
Request to remove liability and collision coverage. This helps reduce your premium while maintaining protection against non-driving risks.
3. Provide Details
You might need to verify:
- The car is not being used.
- It’s stored in a secure location (garage, storage facility, etc.).
- The duration of the storage period.
4. Consider Keeping Minimal Liability (Optional)
Some insurers may require minimal liability coverage even for parked cars. If so, ask for the lowest allowable limits to reduce costs.
5. Suspend Vehicle Registration (State-Dependent)
In some states, you can temporarily suspend your vehicle’s registration to avoid insurance requirements while in storage. Check with your local DMV.
How Much Does Storage Insurance Cost?
Comprehensive-only or storage insurance is usually much cheaper than full coverage. On average, drivers pay 50% to 80% less when switching to a stored vehicle policy. Costs vary depending on:
- Your location
- Type of vehicle
- Storage conditions (indoor vs. outdoor)
- Deductible amount
Pro Tip: Raising your comprehensive deductible (e.g., from $250 to $500 or $1,000) can reduce your premium further.
Best Practices While Your Car Is in Storage
In addition to getting insurance, here are some tips to keep your stored car in good shape:
- Store in a secure, enclosed garage if possible.
- Clean the car inside and out before storing to prevent mold, rust, or pest infestations.
- Use a high-quality car cover for added protection.
- Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger.
- Inflate the tires properly to avoid flat spots.
- Add a fuel stabilizer if storing for several months.
- Check on it periodically to ensure there’s no damage or leaks.
Common Misconceptions
Let’s bust a few myths:
| Misconception | Truth |
|---|---|
| “I don’t need insurance if my car is off the road.” | Your car is still at risk for damage or theft. |
| “Canceling insurance saves me more money.” | It might cost you more later due to higher premiums or penalties. |
| “Comprehensive coverage is only for driving.” | It actually protects against non-driving risks—ideal for stored cars. |
Conclusion
Yes—you can and should insure a car that’s in storage. While it may not need full-blown coverage, comprehensive insurance offers essential protection from theft, fire, vandalism, and other non-driving threats. Storage insurance is affordable, customizable, and gives you peace of mind while your car sits idle.
If you’re planning to store a vehicle for a season or longer, talk to your insurance provider about adjusting your policy. Just a quick call could save you money and ensure that when you’re ready to drive again, your car is protected and your coverage is uninterrupted.
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