Guide to Winter Auto Storage

Winter car storage is critical regardless of whether you own a classic car or an everyday vehicle. And with the cold winter months approaching, it’s even more imperative that you properly and safely store up your vehicle. At XYZ Storage, we understand the importance of keeping your vehicle safe during the colder months. That is why we want to help you with our in-depth guide on how to store a car for winter effectively.

Why Proper Winter Car Storage Matters

Canada is known for its cold winter months, which can make storing your vehicle challenging. The harsh conditions can take a major toll on your car, which can end up causing all sorts of issues. For example, it can cause tire deflation or battery drainage. Therefore, proper storage is required to prevent any damages caused to stored vehicles by freezing temperatures. Proper winter car storage protects both the exterior and interior of your vehicle and how well it runs over time.

Taking the time to properly store your car for the winter not only protects it from immediate damage but also contributes to its longevity and reliability. Proper winter car storage is an investment in the long-term health and performance of your vehicle, allowing you to enjoy it for many years to come.

How to Store a Car for Winter: Step-by-Step Guide

We created a step-by-step guide to ensure you are storing your car properly for the cold winter months ahead and that the car inside your vehicle remains in good condition throughout the storage period.

1. Thoroughly Clean Your Vehicle

Before you decide to store your car a very important step is to make sure you give it a very detailed cleaning. If your vehicle is not cleaned properly this can lead to corrosion and further damage while storing for a long period. You can either clean your vehicle by running it through a high-pressure wash as this can help remove dirt and debris from hard-to-reach places. The other option you have is to hand wash it yourself with some soap and water. 

While the outer exterior of a classic car is important, the car’s interior is just as important to ensure your vehicle remains in top-notch condition. Do a thorough detailing of the interior of your vehicle, including cleaning any crumbs leftover from food and dirt.

Once you’ve completed washing your car ensure that your vehicle is completely dry before storing it in a storage unit or large parking space for the winter.

2. Fill the Gas Tank and Add a Fuel Stabilizer

We recommend filling up your gas tank to help prevent moisture buildup inside the fuel tank and avoid damage over time. You also may want to consider adding a fuel stabilizer to the gas tank to preserve its quality. This step helps keep the gasoline fresh and prevents it from breaking down during storage.

3. Change the Oil and Filter

Changing the oil and oil filter before winter storage is essential to protect your vehicle’s engine. You should replace any essential fluids including the brake fluid, and do a pre-storage oil change, coolant, and transmission fluid. This is to help maintain the condition of your vehicle in long-term outdoor car storage. It’s always best to check your car’s owner’s manual as it can vary from vehicle to vehicle.

4. Protect Your Tires

Tires are an expensive investment so it’s worthwhile to protect them while in storage. There are some steps you can take to keep them in good condition, including tire pressure adjustment, support, and covers. You can start by inflating your tires to the recommended levels as stated by the manufacturer to avoid any flat spots and help your tires maintain their shape over time. And if you are planning on storing your vehicle for an extended period you can remove the weight from the tires with jack stands. These must be installed properly to avoid further damage. Lastly, covering your tires can help prevent rubber degradation and keep them clean.

5. Prepare the Battery

Taking steps to preserve your vehicle’s battery during winter storage helps ensure it remains charged when you take your vehicle out of storage. It is recommended to disconnect the car battery or utilize a battery maintainer to prevent a dead battery while left in a storage unit. Before doing so, it’s important to clean the battery to remove corrosion buildup.

6. Use a Quality Car Cover

To further protect your vehicle while in storage for the winter, you can use a high-quality car cover. This will further protect your vehicle against any dust, dirt, and potential damage during winter storage. It’s best to choose a breathable cover, such as cotton or polyester to allow air circulation and prevent moisture buildup over time. As mentioned earlier, it’s critical to clean your car’s surfaces to remove any remaining dirt or debris.

7. Lubricate Moving Parts

Lubricating the moving parts of your vehicle is a crucial step to ensure that everything remains in good working order during winter storage. You want to apply a high-quality lubricant to door hinges, doors, and other moving components of your vehicle to prevent rust and ensure smooth operation when you take your car out of winter storage. This step may be a simple one but can help you avoid potential damage while in car storage for the winter.

Additional Tips for Winter Car Storage

On top of a step-by-step guide on how to store your vehicle for the winter here are some additional tips when it comes to car storage during the winter you may want to consider:

• Avoid Using the Parking Brake: When it comes to car storage and storing your car for an extended period it’s best to avoid the use of the parking brake.
• Keep Your Car in a Climate-controlled Storage Facility: A climate-controlled storage facility is the ideal environment to store your sports car or any other vehicle you own. These units maintain a consistent temperature and humidity level, preventing damage caused by extreme cold and moisture.
• Check On Vehicle Regularly: Once you safely store your vehicle away from the harsh winter conditions in a climate-controlled environment it’s still important to check on your vehicle regularly. Checking on your vehicle regularly allows you to catch any issues early on and deal with them before it’s too late and further damage occurs.

Frequently Asked Questions About Winter Car Storage

Preparing your vehicle for winter storage can be daunting, but knowing some of the answers to some commonly asked questions by people in a similar boat can also help make the process much easier. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about winter car storage:

Is It Better to Park Your Car in the Garage During Winter?

Indoor winter car storage definitely can be advantageous for multiple reasons. That’s because a garage can help protect your car from the harsh Canadian winters. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can cause damage to the condition of your vehicle. By having your vehicle indoors at a consistent temperature and humidity level. 

How Often Should You Start a Car in Winter Storage?

To keep your vehicle in good condition during winter storage, it’s important to start it regularly. If you have time, start your car every two to three weeks to maintain engine lubrication and prevent the mechanical components from seizing up. This short running period ensures fresh oil circulates throughout the engine and helps keep the battery charged. If possible, move your car a few feet to prevent flat spots from forming on the tires and to ensure even wear. 

Why Choose XYZ Storage for Your Vehicle Storage Needs?

When it comes to storing your vehicle during the winter months, XYZ Storage offers comprehensive storage solutions designed to meet your specific needs and preferences. We understand that winter car storage is essential to protecting your vehicle during the cold winter months. Our state-of-the-art storage facilities provide:

• Climate-Controlled Units: An environment that protects your vehicle from damage due to fluctuating temperature and humidity. 
• 24/7 Security Monitoring: Top-notch security is provided so that you feel comfortable with storing your vehicle in a safe and secure space.
• Convenient Access: Easily access your vehicle by requesting 24/7 access at available locations to accommodate your schedule.
• More Space: Choosing to store your vehicle at a self-storage facility with large outdoor parking spaces or storage facilities indoors leaves you with extra space in the garage or driveway. 

Our XYZ Storage self-storage facilities across Toronto and the GTA are all equipped to store your vehicle throughout the long Canadian winters. Whether you need tips on how often you should start a car in winter storage, preparing your vehicle for winter storage, or how to store your vehicle for the winter our XYZ Storage team is ready to assist you. Stop by any one of our self-storage facilities: Toronto Downtown, Toronto West, Toronto Midtown, Etobicoke, and Scarborough to learn about our indoor car storage and options available for how to store a vehicle for the winter. Happy winter car storage!