Lincoln 2013 MKZ Owner's Manual page 293

All motor vehicles and their
components were engineered and
tested for reliable, regular driving.
Long term storage under various
conditions may lead to component
degradation or failure unless specific
precautions are taken to preserve the
components.
General
• Store all vehicles in a dry,
ventilated place.
• Protect from sunlight, if possible.
• If vehicles are stored outside, they
require regular maintenance to
protect against rust and damage.
Body
• Wash vehicle thoroughly to
remove dirt, grease, oil, tar or mud
from exterior surfaces, rear-wheel
housing and underside of front
fenders.
• Periodically wash vehicles stored
in exposed locations.
• Touch-up raw or primed metal to
prevent rust
• Cover chrome and stainless steel
parts with a thick coat of auto wax
to prevent discoloration. Re-wax
as necessary when the vehicle is
washed.
• Lubricate all hood, door and trunk
lid hinges, and latches with a light
grade oil.
• Cover interior trim to prevent
fading.
• Keep all rubber parts free from oil
and solvents.
Vehicle Care
Engine
• The engine oil and filter should be
changed prior to storage, as used
engine oil contain contaminates
that may cause engine damage.
• Start the engine every 15 days. Run
at fast idle until it reaches normal
operating temperature
• With your foot on the brake, shift
through all the gears while the
engine is running.
Fuel system
• Fill the fuel tank with high-quality
fuel until the first automatic
shutoff of the fuel pump nozzle.
Note: During extended periods of
vehicle storage (30 days or more), fuel
may deteriorate due to oxidation. Add
a quality gas stabilizer product to the
vehicle fuel system whenever actual or
expected storage periods exceed 30
days. Follow the instructions on the
additive label. The vehicle should then
be operated at idle speed to circulate
the additive throughout the fuel
system.
Cooling system
• Protect against freezing
temperatures.
• When removing vehicle from
storage, check coolant fluid level.
Confirm there are no cooling
system leaks, and fluid is at the
recommended level.
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