HOW TO GET YOUR CAR READY FOR WINTER STORAGE

Whether you are planning to store your car for winter or for a few months, it’s important to prepare it for storage. Here are 8 steps to consider to Get Your Car Ready For Winter Storage:

Step 1- Choose a storage location

Where you store your vehicle is very important – choose a secure, dry, indoor storage facility with a concrete floor.   Ensure you can access electricity in case you need it. Downtown U-Lok Storage meets all these requirements.

Step 2: Top up vital fluids, use fuel stabilizer

Check the oil and filter. If it is really dirty and you’ve reached the mileage limit, change it before storing your vehicle, otherwise, you can start with new oil in the spring. Check all other fluids, especially anti-freeze.   Add fuel stabilizer and let the car run for a short time to let it flow through the fuel system.

Step 3: Wash, clean and wax

Before storing your car for the winter, wash and wax it to ensure there are no harmful corrosive contaminants left on the surfaces of your car. Wipe and vacuum the interior.

Step 4: Go for one last spin, fill gas tank

After washing and cleaning the car, go for one last spin to fill up your gas tank (prevents moisture buildup and keeps seals from drying out), and allow the fuel stabilizer to flow through the system. Also, stop by your insurance office to ensure your vehicle is covered by insurance while it is in storage.

Step 5: Check tires

Check to ensure your tires are inflated to the maximum PSI rating (indicated on the sidewall) to prevent the tires from developing flat spots during the storage period. It is not advised to put a car up on blocks and let the suspension hang for an extended period of time. For extended storage, do not use the parking brake; it’s better to use a wheel chock.

Step 6: Battery

Newer cars may require the battery to always stay connected to preserve the computer’s memory. In this case, connect to a battery tender with the hood ajar for the cables. For older cars, options are to disconnect the negative battery side, or remove the battery and maintain it at home.

Step 7: Cover

Cover your clean car with a high quality tight fitting cloth cover that will allow the car to breathe. For longer-term storage, you can place a humidifier inside your car, and steel wool in your exhaust and air intake. Your car is now ready for its winter nap!

Step 8: Storage insurance for your car

Remember to purchase Vehicle Storage Insurance and leave a copy at the storage facility. (This is mandatory.)

Just follow these 8 steps to get your car ready for winter storage. If you would like to learn more about car storage solutions, contact us at Downtown U-Lok.