How to Winterize Your Car for Storage
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November 15th, 2022
As Fall ends, it's time to start looking for a storage solution for your car. To ensure that your vehicle is ready to be stored, you can follow these tips to ensure it will be prepared for the season ahead. The best time to think about storing your car is before the first frost. Storing a car for the winter takes planning, but with these tips, you can keep your vehicle looking great until it's time for spring road trips again. When you are thinking about where to store your car for the season, consider whether there will be moisture or snow accumulation at that location. Any precipitation could cause damage if stored there long-term.
Make sure your car is clean and dry.
A clean car is better to store, will last longer, and will be more enjoyable to drive when it is time to take it out of storage. Start by thoroughly scrubbing the interior, including the seats, roof, floor mats, and doors. Not only will your car look great, but this also removes any food particles that may attract pests. Make sure to thoroughly dry the car before you store it, as this will help prevent mildew and other damaging moisture that can accumulate in a damp car. Wipe down the exterior of your car to get any loose dirt off, and be sure to wash the car thoroughly before you store it. While your car is wet, use a soft cloth to clean and dry the windows. That way, there's no chance of moisture collecting on the glass and causing damage. If you have tinted windows, make sure to clean them with a special cloth designed for cleaning tinted windows. If you have a convertible, clean the roof as well. This will help keep dirt and dust from collecting on the roof and getting into the car.
Check your battery and tires.
Before you store your car for the winter, ensure your battery is in good condition and has plenty of power. If your battery has been in your car for a few years, or if you've driven in extreme temperatures, it's a good idea to replace it before you store your car for the winter. Be sure to clean the terminals and the wires connected to your battery before you put it back in the car. The condition of your tires is another crucial thing to check before you store your car. If you have any tires that are cracked, severely worn, or have punctures, replace them before you store your vehicle. If you don't replace them, they could lose air and cause a dangerous driving situation.
Protect the car's exterior with a cover
When choosing a cover for your car, make sure to get one designed for outdoor use. This will protect your vehicle from precipitation and snow accumulation, and it will also protect your car from UV damage. Choose a cover that has a water-resistant layer. This will help keep your car dry and safe from rain, snow, and ice buildup. If you're worried about how your car will look with a cover, many options are designed to look like part of the car. You can protect your car's exterior with a tarp if you don't have a cover. Make sure the tarp is waterproof, or you could gather water and snow on your car. You can also use a heavy-duty plastic sheet to protect your car's exterior.
Protect your leather and carpets.
If you have leather seats or other leather surfaces in your car, you'll want to protect them from the elements. You can cover those surfaces with a vinyl or plastic cover. You can also put a tarp under the seats to help protect your carpets from the cold. Consider placing a blanket or rug in the back seat, where pets and children will be spending time. If you have a carpeted floor, it's essential to keep it clean and dry during the winter, so it doesn't mold or mildew. You can clean your carpet with a vacuum or use a carpet cleaner to get it clean. If you don't want to vacuum, try placing a rug or blanket in your car to help catch dirt and debris.
Add fuel stabilizer.
If you're storing your car for over a few months, you should add a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank. This will help keep your car's engine clean and safe while it's not being driven. It will also cause less damage to your car's fuel system when you start to drive again after a long period of inactivity. Before adding the fuel stabilizer, ensure you've cleaned out the fuel system and removed any debris from the tank and lines. Follow the directions on the fuel stabilizer's packaging for the best results.
Prevent Pests
Exhaust pipes and any other openings around your vehicle invite rodents to get into your car. Block off these openings while storing your car to keep pests out. Fabric sheets inside your car and moth balls on the outside are great ways to deter pests from making your vehicle their home. Just make sure to remove any covers before you start your car! You can also add traps inside your unit for an added layer of protection.
Keeping your car clean and ready for the road is an excellent way to while away the cold winter months. It can also save money since a clean car runs more efficiently and lasts longer. Preparing your vehicle for winter storage is vital if you want it to last all year. This means protecting it from the elements and keeping it clean and dry. Then, when spring finally arrives, you'll be ready to hit the road in your fully prepared car.
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