When you have a nice car, you want to keep it that way. However, the winter weather can be hard on vehicles, putting extra stress on their finishes and inner workings. Therefore, make sure that your car is safe, snug, and secure in storage when you’re not on the road. Here are the best ways to store your car for winter to make it last longer and look better.
Find a Place To Keep It!
This one should be obvious. Cars can handle most of what nature throws at them. Still, if you can avoid exposing yours to sunlight, snow, sleet, and cold, you should do so. A garage is ideal because it provides round-the-clock shelter. If you don’t have a garage, consider renting a space. Some multi-residential places like condominiums and apartment buildings offer parking spaces. They may also provide increasingly popular car lifts that not only shelter your vehicle but also raise or lower it to an internal area where passing cars, dust, dirt, and more can’t affect it. A heated garage is a plus as well!
Maintain the Fluids
One of the best ways to store your car for winter is maintaining the fluids inside the engine and elsewhere. Staying on schedule with oil changes is always wise, and ensuring the oil is new, clean, and pure before storage ensures that no problems arise the next time you start it. You should also fill the gas tank to keep moisture from forming inside. Check your coolant for extra-low temperatures before putting the car away if you place it in an unheated garage. Water freezing up and expanding in the radiator can cause lots of damage.
Care for the Tires
If you plan to store your vehicle for the entire winter, remember to fill up the tires to the proper pressure. Doing so will ensure the tires can support the weight of the car. This can cause tears and cuts that can damage the integrity of the rubber. Even better, remove the tires and store them elsewhere, preferably covered and not exposed to the elements.
Keep It Clean
A clean car is an object of pride. But even if no one sees your automobile for several months, give it a good cleaning, inside and out. Remove any trash, vacuum the floors and seats, and look for food or drink items that can attract rodents. Rats and mice will look for a warm place to stay during the cold months and can leave your car looking like, well, a nest. Additionally, block the exhaust pipe to prevent entrance. Cleaning the body will ensure dirt, salt, and other materials can’t sit and eat away at the finish. When you finish, you should pick up a breathable car cover that protects the car from dust without trapping moisture. When the sun and warmth come back, you’ll appreciate seeing your vehicle that much more!
