Essential Tips to Prepare Your Car for Winter Storage

Winter is coming in full swing, and we need to get ready for it. And any vehicle lover knows that includes storing your car away safely, too. Ice and snow, sub-zero weather, and wet roads aren't the best circumstances to submit your treasured vehicle to. So, it's time to stow it up for the season and keep it secure until spring returns and the salt is removed from the roadways again. However, keep in mind that storing a car for the winter entails more than simply covering it with a sheet and putting it in the garage. You need to prepare your car for winter storage well - and we have just the tips to help you along.

The benefits of the seasonal car storage

Proper winter storage for your car is critical for several reasons, such as:

• It prolongs the durability of the car and saves you money on repairs.
• The car will be better equipped for spring cruising.
• Many car repair professionals say that improper winter car storage might be worse for the car than driving it all season on salt-covered roadways.

Don't wait any longer to take care of your winter car storage solutions. These strategies will ensure that your beloved vehicle remains in excellent shape until springtime.

Find a suitable location for storing your vehicle

When it comes to storing your car for the winter, your garage might not always be the best option. You need a place that is dry, free of pests, and secure. You should not store it on gravel or bare dirt since both might lead to excess moisture and contaminants.  

Humidity and moisture can do a lot of harm to your precious vehicle, as can really low temperatures. You don't want lots of traction in the storage space all the time, and wide windows that show off all the items indoors are not a great idea either. So, a secure storage space with controlled conditions is the safest option.

Give it a thorough cleaning, both inside and out

Washing your car to prepare it for winter storage has a few advantages. Bugs and bird droppings are corrosive and can chip through the coat of paint if left untreated. It's much better to hand-wash it than opt for a drive-through. Also, don't forget to give the car's undercarriage a rinse. Once it's dry, you should finish up with a thorough waxing.

It's worth noting that you should keep your car's inside spotless before storing it. Maintain a dry and odor-free interior - you should remove anything food-related immediately. This reduces the possibility of bugs getting into your car, and you won't have to deal with any foul scents after months of seasonal storage.

Seat coverings are an excellent way to provide additional security for the fabric. You can also put some desiccant packets inside the car.

Inflate the tires

The tires should be at high pressure for optimal traction and endurance in general. And for people who leave their cars parked for extended periods, pressure is even more essential.

Tires start losing pressure gradually with time and as temperatures start changing. Nonetheless, you should not surpass the maximum air pressure specified. It's a good idea to add 5 or 10 psi. Make sure to put the air pressure in all four tires. If you suspect one of them is leaking, repair it right away since it can deflate entirely over time, causing your car to kneel on the rim. If you're concerned about your vehicle sliding, grab extra wheel fasteners or wood wedges to back against the tires.

We also recommend keeping a manual shift vehicle in gear or neutral, with the wheels chocked. It's not a smart idea to keep the parking brake engaged for an extended time since it will likely freeze up and be difficult to loosen in the spring.

Fill up all of your car's supplies

When wondering whether to empty or fill your gas tank before storing your car for the winter, you'll discover many opposing viewpoints online. Those who advocate for draining the tank claim it avoids varnish and gum accumulation. Unfortunately, draining a gas tank without leaving moisture behind might cause corrosion.

The majority, however, goes in favor of filling your tank up. In this case, using a fuel stabilizer is an excellent idea. A fuel stabilizer could assist in minimizing corrosion if you keep your car stored for months. You should also change the oil and refill fluid levels, like windshield washer fluid and brake fluid. Additionally, ensure your vehicle has extra antifreeze if you live in a lower temperature region.

When it comes to your car battery, either detach and store it or attach it to a trickle charger or battery tender. It should have a float mode or automatic shutdown option to avoid overcharging the battery.

Keep pests out of your vehicle

A storage space you rent can keep your car safe and warm, but some circumstances may attract undesirable pests throughout the harsh winter months. There are several locations for creatures to hide in your vehicle, as well as numerous parts of your car they can damage. Block any holes they may access, like the exhaust pipe or an air intake, to keep them out. You can also spread fragrant dryer sheets inside the car, followed by mothballs all around the exterior.

Call your insurance agent when you prepare your car for winter storage

You can get in contact with your agent and ask to minimize the cost of your insurance by changing your policy until it's time to get back on the road. If you modify any part of your coverage while your car is in storage, make sure to re-insure it when you take it out in the springtime.

Final thoughts

While it might be time-consuming to prepare your car for winter storage, your prized possession is worth it. When spring comes and you start it up again for the first time in a while, all that effort will be worth it! Until then, you can check out the size of the storage unit you need and get your ride ready for hibernation. Good luck!