Five Tips For Storing Your Car During Winter

The cold season is fast approaching, and that’s a very tough time for a car, especially if you want it to stay new for as long as possible. Or maybe you just spoiled yourself by purchasing a beautiful classic car? In either case, if you are considering storing your car during the winter months, here are a few things to remember:

1. First, make sure that the area where you plan to store your car is dry and safe, and that there aren’t any rodents that could cause damage to any components. There are some products on the market that will repel the pests, and it’s wise to block all orifices they could climb into, such as the tailpipes and air vents. It’s also good to lower the windows by a few centimetres to avoid trapping humidity in the cockpit.
2. All vehicle fluids should be topped up, including fresh engine oil that will make restarting much easier the following spring. Keep the fuel tank full to prevent condensation, and add a fuel stabilizer to help avoid oxidation and deposits in the fuel system. The tires should be inflated to their maximum pressure according to the indications on their sidewalls, which will help prevent the formation of flat spots.
3. The battery can be removed from older cars, but with all the computer technology on board modern vehicles, it’s best to leave it connected and use a smart battery charger.
4. The car should be thoroughly washed and waxed to remove dirt from the bodywork. Make sure that it has had time to dry completely before putting on a car cover. The latter should be of good quality, made with material that breathes.
5. Should you start the engine a few times during winter? It’s not necessary, but if you really feel like it, the engine should run for at least 20 minutes to ensure that it is warmed up properly and to avoid condensation.