Wondering whether 5-year car storage vs regular use saves you more money? Many car owners in the UK are now weighing long-term storage against regular use to cut costs and preserve vehicle value. This guide compares the total cost of ownership for both scenarios over five years, helping you make the smartest decision for your situation.
Why Consider 5-Year Vehicle Storage?
Storing a car for the long term can be a strategic choice. Maybe you have a collector car, or perhaps you’re heading overseas for an extended period. Whatever the reason, putting your vehicle into long-term storage requires serious consideration—not only for preservation but also for the cost.
Typical Costs of 5-Year Car Storage
Let’s examine the ongoing and upfront costs of storing your car securely for 5 years:
1. Storage Facility Rental
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Indoor storage units range from £70 to £150/month.
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Over 5 years: £4,200–£9,000
2. Pre-Storage Maintenance
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Fluids change, tire inflation, and full inspection.
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One-time cost: £150–£300
3. Car Cover and Battery Maintainers
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Essentials to protect the car from dust and battery drainage.
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One-time cost: £100–£200
4. SORN Registration (Statutory Off Road Notification)
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Declaring your vehicle off-road exempts it from road tax and insurance requirements.
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Cost: £0 (saves you on tax and insurance)
5. Insurance for Stored Vehicle
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A laid-up policy for fire, theft, and vandalism.
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Average cost: £100–£200/year
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Over 5 years: £500–£1,000
6. Reactivation Costs
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Post-storage service, MOT testing, tire replacement, battery replacement, etc.
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Estimated cost: £300–£800
💰 Total Estimated Cost Over 5 Years: £5,250–£11,500
Costs of Using a Car Regularly for 5 Years
If you continue using your car regularly, you’ll need to account for the usual running costs:
1. Fuel
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Average UK driver covers ~7,500 miles/year
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Fuel cost: ~£1,200–£1,800/year
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5-Year Total: £6,000–£9,000
2. Insurance
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Varies based on age, location, and vehicle
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Avg. full coverage: £400–£1,000/year
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5-Year Total: £2,000–£5,000
3. Road Tax
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Based on CO2 emissions
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Avg. £150–£400/year
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5-Year Total: £750–£2,000
4. MOT Testing and Servicing
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MOT: ~£54/year
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Servicing: ~£200–£500/year
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5-Year Total: £1,270–£2,770
5. Repairs and Maintenance
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Tires, brakes, battery, etc.
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Est. £300–£1,000/year
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5-Year Total: £1,500–£5,000
💰 Total Estimated Cost Over 5 Years: £11,520–£23,770
Comparing the Two: Storage vs Regular Use
| Cost Category | 5-Year Storage | Regular Use (5 yrs) |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | £4,200–£9,000 | £0 |
| Insurance | £500–£1,000 | £2,000–£5,000 |
| Road Tax | £0 | £750–£2,000 |
| Fuel | £0 | £6,000–£9,000 |
| MOT & Servicing | £0 | £1,270–£2,770 |
| Repairs/Maintenance | £300–£800 | £1,500–£5,000 |
| Total | £5,250–£11,500 | £11,520–£23,770 |
Benefits of Long-Term Storage
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Lower total cost if no driving is required.
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Preserves vehicle value, especially for rare or classic cars.
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Ideal for inactive periods like military deployment or sabbaticals.
Downsides of Storing a Vehicle
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Risk of internal damage if improperly stored (fuel gumming, tire flat spots).
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Cost of reactivation and possible unexpected repairs.
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Car depreciation still occurs, especially with older models.
When is Regular Use Better?
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If your car is essential for daily activities.
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If you’re not planning to leave the country or take a break from driving.
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If letting it sit would do more harm than good (e.g., older engines).
Expert Tip: Combine Storage with Ghost Car MOT UK
If you’re planning long-term storage, Ghost Car MOT UK can help ensure your car is roadworthy before and after storage. With mobile MOT services, you get professional MOT testing at your home—saving time and giving you peace of mind.
Final Verdict: Which is More Cost-Effective?
If you don’t need to use your car regularly, long-term storage is significantly cheaper, especially when done correctly. However, the decision ultimately comes down to your lifestyle needs, the vehicle’s purpose, and how well you prepare for either option.