Whether it is a seasonal car, a classic vehicle, or simply a car that won’t be driven for an extended period, storing a vehicle properly in the winter months is essential. Cold temperatures, moisture, and prolonged inactivity can cause significant damage to your car. However, with the proper care and precautions, these damages are entirely avoidable. Preparing your vehicle properly for winter storage in Ontario can make a significant difference in your car’s long-term health and well-being. Here is a comprehensive guide to the most essential steps for winter car storage.
Choose the Best Winter Car Storage Location
To start, the first thing you need to consider for winter car storage is location. An indoor garage or storage unit is best, as it provides shelter from snow and ice. If storing on concrete, adding foam board or plastic sheeting under the vehicle helps reduce humidity exposure.
Additionally, ensure you use wheel chocks instead of the parking brake. Keeping the parking brake engaged for an extended period can cause the pads and rotors to become stuck.
Start With a Deep Clean
Before you store your vehicle for the season, please give it a thorough cleaning. Washing the exterior removes dirt, salt, and contaminants that can lead to rust. Applying a quality coat of wax adds a protective barrier during storage.
Ontario is part of the “rust belt,” meaning salt buildup can accelerate corrosion even when the vehicle is parked. Even if your car doesn’t look dirty, salt residue can cling to undercarriage components and encourage rust. Moreover, inside the cabin, vacuum and remove any food wrappers or crumbs. This reduces the risk of mold, mildew, and pests while the vehicle is sitting unused.
Take Care of Your Vehicle Fluids Before Winter Car Storage
Another essential tip for winter car storage is to check your vehicle’s fluids. Performing an oil change before storage is recommended because old oil contains moisture and contaminants that can harm the engine over time. Fluid preparation is critical in Ontario because temperatures can drop to –20°C or even –30°C. Fresh fluids reduce the chance of internal corrosion during long storage periods.
You should also check and top off major fluids such as:
- Coolant/antifreeze
- Brake fluid
- Power steering fluid
- Transmission fluid
- Windshield washer fluid
Ensuring proper coolant strength is especially important in cold climates to prevent freeze damage.
Treat Your Fuel Tank
Gasoline begins to break down after a few months, which can lead to varnish deposits or corrosion within the fuel system. To avoid this:
- Fill the tank (nearly complete) to minimize condensation.
- Add a fuel stabilizer.
- Run the engine for a few minutes to allow the treated fuel to circulate.
Protect the Battery During Winter Car Storage
Car batteries gradually lose charge, especially in cold weather. For winter storage, the best practice is to connect a battery maintainer (also called a float charger) that keeps the battery fully charged without overcharging. For cars stored in unheated garages or sheds, removing the battery and storing it indoors is often the safest approach.
Hybrid and electric vehicles require special consideration: manufacturers typically recommend keeping the battery charged between 30% and 60% during storage, as deep cold can accelerate degradation if the battery is left fully depleted. If power is unavailable at your storage location for winter car storage, removing the battery and storing it in a warmer environment is a viable alternative.
Protect the Vehicle’s Tires
A crucial tip for winter car storage is to protect your tires. Long-term storage can lead to “flat spots” on your tires where the rubber becomes slightly deformed. To prevent this:
- Inflate tires to their maximum recommended pressure.
- Avoid storing on dirt or gravel surfaces that collect moisture.
- If possible, use jack stands or blocks to prevent the vehicle’s weight from resting entirely on the tires during winter.
- Consider parking your vehicle on rubber mats, foam insulation board, or carpet pieces to protect the tires.
Keep Pests Out
Mice and squirrels commonly shelter in vehicles and garages for warmth during winter. Wiring damage is widespread in rural and suburban Ontario. Rodents love warm, quiet places in winter. Therefore, cars are ideal nesting spots. To protect wiring, insulation, and upholstery:
- Use steel wool or mesh to plug exhaust tips and air intake openings.
- Set traps around your storage area.
- Place natural deterrents such as dryer sheets, soap blocks, or mothballs (with caution around pets)
- Avoid leaving food, seeds, or garbage in the vicinity of the storage area.
Review Your Unused Vehicle Insurance Coverage
If your vehicle will remain off the road for several months, speak with your insurance broker about adjusting coverage. For winter car storage, you may be able to reduce collision coverage while maintaining comprehensive protection for risks like theft, fire, falling objects, or vandalism.
By following these steps, you can avoid many common issues associated with long-term winter storage. If you have any questions about your vehicle’s insurance or are looking to store your vehicle for the winter, please consider contacting us today to discuss your coverage.
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