Winterizing Your Car For Storage
The time has inevitably come to store your supercars/classic cars for the coming winter months. Before you do so, I've written up a quick Winterizing Checklist for you to run through and ensure your vehicle is prepared for storage.
1. First and most importantly, a full in & out detail. It is essential to address dirt, grime, and other elements building up on both the exterior and interior before storing it away. Waiting too long allows these contaminants to solidify, making the cleaning process much harder. It can also lead to potential staining or etching on your paint's clear coat or protective layers like PPF & Ceramic Coating if you've taken advantage of ABE Protect Plus. If you are in need of any solutions for detailing your vehicle, check out The Kit by ABE. Of course if the detailing process seems a bit intimidating, feel free to book your final detail of the year with us and we'd be happy to take care of it for you!
2. Service the vehicle. Make sure all fluids are topped up. Empty space inside these fluid tanks can form condensation over an extended period of time which can lead to corrosion and other issues.
3. Change the oil. As oil gets used, corrosive materials can build up in it and eventually start corroding your engine if they sit in your tank for too long.
4. Add fuel stabilizer. This keeps water from corroding internal fuel system components or reaching the engine once you start the vehicle after long-term storage, which can cause severe damage. It can also prevent the formation of varnish which blocks fuel pumps and lines.
5. Inflate all tires to ensure they do not deflate over time and cause flat spots.
6. Use a trickle charger to keep your battery in good health and avoid having to replace it.
7. Deter critters. There are many ways to do this, anything from mouse traps, covering up the exhaust & intake ports or even electronic deterrents. But most importantly, keep the car's interior clear of any crumbs or food wrappers.
8. Don't use the handbrake! Having it engaged for months on end can cause the brake pads to fuse with the rotor. Use wheel chocks instead.
9. Don't use a car cover! While putting a cover on and taking it off, it rubs up against the vehicle which can scratch the paint. It can also rub up against any dirt/debris which may still be on the car.
I hope this winterizing checklist has helped you make sure everything is in order before putting your vehicle away and it will be ready to go at the first sight of warm weather.
Have an amazing weekend!
- Ali Ushak, CEO.
