Check out our 10 best tips on how to store your car over the winter months
If you’re lucky enough to have a garage in which to keep your classic over the winter, making the most of off-the-road cover can mean the difference between a simple summer recommissioning or time-consuming rectification work.
1. Wash the vehicle thoroughly to remove all contaminants
Washing a car just before storage ensures all impurities are removed. You don’t want to leave any contamination in place when storing a vehicle for any period of time.
2. Dry the vehicle and note any damage
Repair any exposed scuffs or scratches. Washing and drying a vehicle allows the owner to inspect the car in close detail enabling them to look for any damage that may have occurred during the summer season. Attend to them before corrosion takes hold.
3. Vacuum the interior to remove any debris
The hands-on nature of cleaning allows the owner to inspect closely for damage or any areas that need attention. It also ensures the car is clean and ready to be enjoyed once the weather improves.
4. Wax the bodywork to protect and feed the paintwork
A coating (or two) of wax will not only make the car look good, it also helps to protect the paintwork while in storage.
5. Change the engine oil and filter
If a car is to sit for any period it is best to ensure the oil in the engine is clean, of the correct type and to the recommended levels.
6. Check the strength of the antifreeze to prevent freeze damage to the engine
It’s very easy to add antifreeze to your engine and forget about it. Check the strength before any period of rest, even when the car is in a temperature-controlled environment. Strength can weaken over time so it’s an activity well worth doing.
7. Overinflate the tyres to 50psi to prevent ‘flat spotting’
Another simple job that offers benefits way beyond the effort required. Distorted tyres can cause problems later in the season.
8. Apply tyre preserver to the sidewalls to nourish and prevent perishing
Even with the tyres overinflated, it is essential to apply a tyre preserver to keep the sidewalls pliable and in good health while not being used.
9. Apply a battery conditioner to maintain the battery
A battery conditioner monitors the health of the battery and tops up as required; most modern chargers will trickle voltage into the battery so as to reduce the risk of damage to the plates and the electrolyte.
10. Apply a car cover to protect the bodywork
With the car safely indoors, a multi-layer, high-quality car cover should be applied. Waterproof covers can restrict airflow, so be sure to use the right type to avoid condensation build-up. Lift the cover from time to time to check the vehicle while in storage.
Thanks to car storage specialists Windrush for its top ten tips for preserving your car indoors.
