Classic car enthusiasts preparing your car for winter storage at Spacemall Storage means planning ahead and remembering that winter weather can be rough on your car.
For many people, winter is a season of picturesque snowfall, cozy evenings by the fireplace, and hot cocoa. However, for classic car enthusiasts, it’s also a time of concern.
Winter car care can be much easier though when you keep your car at Spacemall Storage.Elsewhere, the harsh weather conditions and road salt can wreak havoc on these cherished vehicles. Proper winter car storage is essential to preserve their beauty and functionality for generations to come.
Even though Punxsutawney Phil told us we were getting a short winter, he didn’t say it would be snow-free.
Here are some invaluable tips for storing your classic car during the winter months:
- Clean and Prepare: Before bringing your classic car to Spacemall Storage for the winter, give it a thorough cleaning, inside and out. Dirt and grime left on the exterior can corrode the paint over time. Clean the interior to remove any food crumbs or debris that could attract pests. Additionally, consider waxing the exterior to provide an extra layer of protection against moisture. Preparation is the key to winter car care.
- Fluid Check and Change:Prepare your car for winter storage at Spacemall Storage with a full fluid check. If you need fluids replaced soon, do it now. Clean fluids store better and mean less preparation time when you want to bring your car out of storage.
- Fuel and Additives: Fill up the fuel tank to prevent moisture from accumulating inside. Consider adding a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from deteriorating and causing issues with starting the engine when you retrieve the car from storage.
- Battery Maintenance: Disconnect the battery or use a trickle charger to maintain its charge throughout the winter. Cold temperatures can drain a battery quickly, and a dead battery can lead to various issues when you’re ready to use the car again. Spacemall Storage is fine with keeping your car on a trickle charger. Just make sure you have one with a microprocessor for maximum safety.
- Tire Care: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots from forming. Consider placing the car on jack stands to take the weight off the tires entirely. This will also prevent the tires from developing flat spots due to prolonged pressure on one spot.
- Moisture Control: Moisture is the enemy of classic cars in storage. Use desiccant packs or a dehumidifier in the storage area to keep humidity levels low. You can also use moisture-absorbing products like silica gel to trap any moisture in your storage space.
- Cover and Protect: Invest in a high-quality breathable car cover to shield your classic car from dust, dirt, and potential scratches during storage. Avoid using plastic tarps or covers that can trap moisture and lead to mold or mildew growth.
- Rodent Prevention: Rodents are notorious for finding their way into storage areas and wreaking havoc on classic cars. Place mothballs or cotton balls soaked in peppermint oil around the car to deter rodents. Additionally, seal any openings where rodents could enter, such as exhaust pipes or air intakes. Spacemall helps you keep the mice away with professional rodent control, but it never hurt to be extra safe. If you don’t want to risk smelling up your car, consider electronic rodent prevention like Mouse Blocker.
- Regular Checks: Even though your classic car is in storage, it’s essential to check on it periodically. Inspect for any signs of leaks, pests, or moisture buildup. Start the engine occasionally to keep it lubricated and prevent seals from drying out.
- Insurance and Documentation: Ensure that your classic car insurance policy is up to date and provides coverage for storage. Keep all documentation, including maintenance records and insurance papers, in a safe place where you can easily access them when needed.
By following these winter car storage tips, you can ensure that your classic car remains in pristine condition. Whether its a sunny day in March or later in spring, make sure your car is ready to hit the road. Remember, a little extra care and attention now will preserve the beauty and value of your beloved classic for years to come. Once you have done all the basics, don’t forget to call Spacemall. We have a lot of classic beauties hiding behind the curtains at Classic Auto Mall. Bring yours to join them!