When winter rolls around, you may wish to put your car in storage instead of leaving it out to fight the cold weather on its own. Driving your car keeps it maintained, but the harsh weather can be hard on it, and with the proper care you can shield it from the elements in your own garage. Follow these tips to prepare your car for winter storage, from preventing damaged gas lines to keeping wild animals away. When warm weather hits, your vehicle will be ready to roll.
Perform any needed maintenance on your car. Have the oil changed, flush the radiator and refill the antifreeze, fill all low fluids, and have any other checks or services your car needs performed.
Remove the battery from the car for storage. According to buicks.net, spraying the lead terminals of the cables with WD-40 will protect them during storage.
Remove floor mats and the trunk mat from the car and store them separately. These mats can trap moisture inside the car.
Fill the tires to the recommended leave for your vehicle. Check the tires during the winter and refill if needed.
Fill the gas tank to prevent the gas lines from freezing during the cold temperatures.
Block the muffler to prevent animals from crawling in during the cold weather.
Clean your car inside and out. Polish the surface of the car, and add a protective coating to the car seats if they are leather.
Choose a high quality car cover and place it over your car. Double-check that the windows are rolled up or only slightly cracked for circulation, and that the car is clean and ready for storage.
