Looking after a SORN vehicle in storage

A SORN means the vehicle is off the road, not that it can be forgotten. A few simple steps stop a parked car turning into an expensive repair.

Checked against GOV.UK guidance · Updated 25 October 2026

Where can a SORN vehicle be kept?

Anywhere that is not a public road: a garage, private driveway, private land, a barn or a storage unit. A street, a public car park or a grass verge counts as a public road for these purposes. The vehicle must also stay in the UK.

Before you lay it up

1. Check the MOT history. Note advisories you can fix while it's off the road. A full MOT history check lists them all.
2. Wash and dry it, including underneath. Dirt and salt hold moisture against the bodywork.
3. Fill the fuel tank. It reduces condensation in the tank. Petrol goes stale over many months, so plan to use or refresh it.
4. Change the oil if it's close to due. Old oil contains acids.
5. Top up coolant with the correct antifreeze mix.

Battery

A modern car's electronics will flatten a battery in weeks. Either:

• fit a smart maintenance charger (trickle charger) if you have power, or
• disconnect the negative terminal (note any radio codes first), or
• remove the battery and store it somewhere dry, charging it every few weeks.

Our sister site's car battery guide explains charger types.

Tyres and brakes

• Inflate tyres to the upper end of the recommended pressure to reduce flat spots.
• Move the car slightly every few weeks if you can, on private land only.
• Leave the handbrake off for long storage (chock the wheels and leave it in gear or "park") to stop pads sticking to discs.

Damp, covers and pests

• Use a breathable car cover indoors. Plastic sheets trap condensation.
• A dehumidifier in a garage makes a real difference over winter.
• Block exhaust tips and air intakes loosely (and leave yourself a reminder to remove them) to keep mice out.

More tips: laying up a car (SORN) guide and car cover guide.

Security

A stored car is an easy target. Use a steering lock, keep keys away from doors and windows (relay theft), consider a tracker and think about laid-up insurance for fire and theft.

Bringing it back

1. Reconnect or recharge the battery.
2. Check tyre pressures and condition (age cracking).
3. Check oil, coolant and brake fluid levels.
4. Test all lights and the horn.
5. Remove any bungs and covers.
6. Book an MOT if needed, insure it, then tax it.