Winter Is Coming: Here's How to Store Your Car Properly

Winter can be harsh on cars, especially when not properly stored. Cold temperatures, snow, and ice can cause damage to your vehicle and its components. That's why taking the necessary steps to prepare your car for winter storage is essential.

Ensuring your car remains in top condition during winter and is ready for use when temperatures rise is essential. Our guide covers every aspect of winter car storage, from preparing your car for storage to choosing a suitable location and conducting regular maintenance checks.

Prepare Your Car for Storage

Preparing your car for storage is crucial to ensure it remains in top condition during winter. Before storing your car, cleaning it inside and out is essential. Dirt, grime, and salt can damage your car's paint and cause rust. Therefore, wash your car thoroughly and ensure it is completely dry before storing it.

1. Change the oil and top up fluids.

Old oil can be contaminated, which can cause damage to your engine over time. Hence, changing the oil and replacing the oil filter will ensure your car's engine stays lubricated and protected.

2. Inflate your tires.

Underinflated tires can develop flat spots when left sitting for an extended period, causing damage to the tire's structure. Overinflated tires, on the other hand, can put undue stress on the tire's sidewall. Therefore, check your car's manual to determine the correct tire pressure.

3. Consider using a fuel stabilizer.

Over time, fuel can become stale and break down, causing difficulties when starting your car after storage. Adding a fuel stabilizer to a full gas tank before storing your vehicle is recommended to prevent this. This will help prevent the fuel from breaking down and ensure your engine runs smoothly when you're ready to use your car again.

Choose a Storage Location

Selecting the appropriate storage location for your car is essential to shield it from potential hazards and harsh winter conditions. Consider the following factors when deciding on a storage location for your car.

Garage or Storage Unit

A garage or storage unit is ideal for storing your car during winter. It protects you from harsh weather conditions, such as snow, ice, and wind, and keeps your car secure. A storage unit is an excellent alternative if you don't have access to a garage. Make sure that the unit is clean, dry, and secure.

Climate-Controlled vs. Non-Climate-Controlled

If you reside in an area with extreme temperatures, storing your car in a climate-controlled facility is advisable. Such a unit regulates temperature and humidity, safeguarding your car's interior from damages like cracking or warping of the dashboard, leather seats, and other components.

Nevertheless, it's important to note that climate-controlled storage units tend to be pricier than non-climate-controlled ones.

Security Considerations

When storing your car, security should be a top priority. Ensure the storage facility has adequate security measures, such as video surveillance, access control systems, and on-site security personnel. You should also consider adding extra security measures, such as an alarm system or a steering wheel lock, to protect your car further.

Properly Store Your Car

Properly storing your car is essential to prevent damage and ensure it remains in good condition during winter. Here are some tips to help you store your vehicle correctly.

1. Lift the car.

Raising your car using jack stands can prevent your tires from developing flat spots. Prolonged inactivity can cause flat spots, leading to tire damage. Using jack stands removes the weight from the tires, minimizing the possibility of flat areas.

2. Cover the car with a breathable car cover.

Covering your car with a breathable car cover will help protect it from dust, debris, and other potential hazards. However, choose a breathable car cover that allows air to circulate, preventing moisture from accumulating and causing damage to your car's paint and body.

3. Disconnect the battery and or use a battery tender.

Disconnecting or using a battery tender will help ensure the battery stays charged during storage. A battery tender is a device that plugs into a wall outlet and keeps your car's battery charged while in storage. By disconnecting the battery or using a battery tender, you can help prevent the battery from dying, which can cause problems when starting your car after storage.

4. Keep rodents and pests away.

Rodents and other pests can cause significant damage to your car's wiring, upholstery, and other components. Seal any openings, such as exhaust pipes and air intakes, to prevent rodents and pests from infesting your car. You can also use rodent repellent or traps to keep rodents and pests away from your car.

Regular Maintenance Checks

While your car is in storage, it's essential to conduct regular maintenance checks to ensure it remains in good condition. Here are some maintenance checks that you should perform periodically during winter storage.

1. Check on your car periodically.

Checking on your car periodically will help ensure that it's in good condition and no issues have arisen. When checking on your vehicle, inspect the exterior for any signs of damage or corrosion, such as rust spots or dents. You should also inspect the interior for signs of pests, such as droppings or nests.

2. Let the engine run for a few minutes.

Starting the engine and letting it run for a few minutes will help keep it lubricated and prevent the battery from dying. Let the engine run for at least 15 minutes to allow the oil to circulate properly.

3. Check the tires and inflate them.

Check the tire pressure periodically and inflate it if necessary. Underinflated tires can develop flat spots, while overinflated tires can put undue stress on the sidewall. Ensure to inflate the tires to the recommended pressure, which you can find in your car's manual.

4. Keep the interior dry.

Moisture can cause damage to your car's interior, such as mold, mildew, and rust. Therefore, it's essential to keep the interior dry during storage. You can use a dehumidifier or moisture-absorbing packets to keep the interior dry.

Don't Let Winter Ruin Your Ride

Winter presents an ideal opportunity to tend to your car's storage requirements. Proper storage space, preventive maintenance measures, and protection against storm damage can maintain your car's good condition while in storage.

Of course, if you can't store your vehicles indoors over the winter, you can still take some steps to ensure they stay safe and undamaged during cold weather months. Considering these tips, your vehicle will be ready for spring in the best possible condition—safe and fully functioning!

Brian Alba, Editorial Staff

Brian's passion for writing drives him to create informative and thought-provoking content. He aims to inspire and educate readers with his work. He is committed to perfecting his craft and pushing the limits of what can be achieved with writing.