For military personnel preparing for deployment, PCS (Permanent Change of Station), or extended training, deciding where to store a vehicle is an important choice. Many service members ask: Can I store my car on a military base? While the answer is yes, there are serious drawbacks to consider.

At AAAA Auto Storage in San Diego, we’ve worked with thousands of military members looking for a secure, hassle-free vehicle storage solution. In this guide, we’ll break down the pros and cons of storing your car on a military base, explain why it may not be the best option, and highlight how professional car storage ensures your vehicle stays safe and in top condition.

1. Can You Store Your Car on a Military Base?

Many U.S. military bases offer designated parking lots for long-term vehicle storage, typically managed through the MWR (Morale, Welfare, and Recreation) office or base transportation services. While this may seem like a convenient option, storage availability is limited, and most bases offer only outdoor, unattended storage.

Where to check for availability:

Base Transportation Office
MWR Office
Base Auto Hobby Shops
On-base storage lots (if available)

For those considering this option, it’s critical to understand the risks and limitations of leaving your car in an unsecured, outdoor military lot for months at a time.

Photo credit: Simone Hogan / Shutterstock.com

2. The Risks of Storing Your Car on a Military Base

Limited Security & Oversight

Although military bases have general security, most vehicle storage areas do not provide dedicated surveillance. Unattended vehicles left outside for extended periods are vulnerable to vandalism, weather damage, and mechanical failures.

Exposure to the Elements

Most military bases only offer open-air storage, which means your car is fully exposed to sun, wind, dust, and rain. Over time, this can cause:

Paint damage and fading due to UV exposure
Dry rot in tires from prolonged stationary positioning
Battery drainage from lack of use
Rust and corrosion from moisture exposure

No Maintenance or Monitoring

Military storage lots do not provide regular maintenance services, meaning your car sits untouched for months. When service members return, they often find dead batteries, flat tires, fluid leaks, and engine issues.

Space Limitations & Time Restrictions

Not all bases offer vehicle storage, and those that do often have limited spots. Additionally, storage time limits may not align with your deployment, meaning your vehicle could be subject to relocation or removal while you're away.

3. Why Professional Auto Storage is the Better Choice

Rather than leaving your vehicle unattended in an open lot, a professional car storage facility provides secured, monitored, and maintained storage to keep your vehicle in top condition. At AAAA Auto Storage in San Diego, we specialize in long-term storage solutions designed for military personnel.

Secure, Gated Facility with 24/7 Monitoring

Unlike on-base storage, which is often open-access, our facility is fully enclosed with restricted access and professional monitoring. This ensures maximum protection against theft, vandalism, and weather damage.

Ongoing Vehicle Maintenance & Care

Battery Maintenance: We start and run vehicles periodically to prevent battery failure.
Tire Rotation & Pressure Checks: Prevents flat spots and tire damage.
Fluid Checks: Ensures no leaks or mechanical issues arise.
Vehicle Covers Available: Extra protection against dust and debris.

Flexible Storage Options with No Time Limits

Deployments and PCS moves can be unpredictable. At AAAA Auto Storage, we offer flexible long-term storage with no strict time limits, so you have peace of mind knowing your vehicle is safe for as long as needed.

Easy Retrieval – Ready When You Are

When you store with a professional facility like us, your car is ready to drive the moment you return. No dealing with dead batteries, flat tires, or mechanical issues. Just pick up your vehicle and go.

4. Why Service Members Choose AAAA Auto Storage

At AAAA Auto Storage, we understand the unique challenges military personnel face when storing their vehicles. Our facility is conveniently located near major bases including:

Naval Base San Diego
Camp Pendleton
MCAS Miramar

Our services are designed to provide security, maintenance, and peace of mind, so you don’t have to worry about your vehicle while deployed.

Why Choose AAAA Auto Storage?

✔ Gated, Secured Lot – No Unauthorized Access

✔ Routine Battery & Tire Maintenance

✔ Flexible Long-Term Storage – No Time Limits

✔ Experienced Staff Who Understand Military Needs

✔ Easy Pickup – Your Car is Ready to Go When You Are

5. The Best Choice for Your Vehicle: Professional Storage vs. On-Base Storage

Feature	Military Base Storage	AAAA Auto Storage
Security	Basic base security, no dedicated surveillance	Gated, monitored storage with 24/7 oversight
Weather Protection	Fully exposed to sun, rain, and dust	Stored in a secured facility with optional covers
Battery Maintenance	No services available	Regular battery checks and charging
Tire Maintenance	No services available	Regular pressure checks and prevention of flat spots
Access & Flexibility	Limited space, time restrictions apply	Unlimited storage duration, flexible pickup

If your goal is to protect your vehicle and ensure it remains in top condition, a professional storage facility is the clear choice over on-base storage.

6. Reserve Your Military Car Storage Spot Today

Don’t leave your vehicle exposed to the elements and sitting unattended. Ensure it remains safe, secure, and well-maintained while you’re away.

Contact AAAA Auto Storage in San Diego today to reserve your storage space.

Call us at (619) 567-8731
Send us a message to get a free quote
Stop by our facility for a tour and consultation

Let us take care of your car while you take care of your mission. Secure your spot today!

Can I Store My Car on a Military Base? Pros and Cons Explained