If you’re considering storing your car for the winter, or even longer, here are some tips to keep it in tip top shape.  You should also store it properly so you don’t end up with a large bill trying to fix any damage you may have done while letting it sit long term.

If possible, store your vehicle indoors (in a cool, dry place).  Before you store it, make sure that it’s extremely clean, inside and out.  If you’d like to store your vehicle inside, but don’t have a garage, you can also search for a company that offers storage space. If you have to store your outside, you’ll want to make sure you have a thick car cover or tarp to cover the entire thing.

To prevent interior destruction of the engine, make sure that all your fluids are fresh and full.  You can buy a fuel stabilizer, which will prevent gas breakdown that causes damage to the engine and fuel line.  It will also allow you to keep the tank fairly full which helps keep out extra airspace (airspace can lead to moisture and rust).  Take out the spark plugs and line the cylinder housings with oil because it will help prevent corrosion.  Lastly, change the oil and filter before storing your vehicle.

If you plan to store your vehicle longer than a year, you should add a couple extra precautions in.  You should take the battery out and clean all the connections, add about ten pound of extra pressure to your tires, give it a wax job to extend paint durability and also take off your wipers so they don’t end up permanently attached to the windshield.

Happy storing!

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