Are you going to store a car for the winter? Don’t leave it as is in a garage, throw the key in a drawer and forget about it until spring. There is a way to find it in good condition when the good weather returns.
First of all, an oil change and filter replacement are necessary. Then take a walk of around twenty kilometers to bring all the fluids up to temperature in order to eliminate any condensation around the engine and gearbox.
Afterwards, fill up with gasoline to avoid the formation of water vapors. These could contaminate the fuel and corrode the fuel system.
If the vehicle is equipped with carburetors, it is recommended to pour half a cup of transmission oil into the gas tank and let the engine run for ten minutes. Transmission oil has protective properties for the lines and fuel tank.
Next, it is important to wash and wax the car. By doing so, you will eliminate several stains which, during the winter period, may become encrusted for good or be difficult to remove later. Particular attention should be paid to wheel wells. The same reasoning applies to the interior.
Once at the storage location, which will ideally be dry and cool, climb the car onto blocks placed under the axles or under the suspension. If this is not possible, it is suggested to place the tires on wooden plates and increase the air pressure by approximately 12% to avoid a flat spot.
Now is the time to cover the car with a protective cover. The latter, of good quality, must be waterproof in order to avoid humidity and, subsequently, the formation of corrosion. Be sure not to tighten it too tightly, especially if the vehicle has chrome bumpers. These could then corrode.
But before covering your vehicle, check that the handbrake is not engaged. This could lead to fusion between the pads and the calipers. And before leaving the cabin, be sure to scent it with dryer sheets (the same ones you use for the dryer). Mice and other rodents hate the smell. And to keep them even further away, make sure to block all the places (exhaust pipe, air inlet) where they are likely to infiltrate. For even greater effectiveness, line up a battalion of mothballs (mothballs) around the vehicle.
Outside
If the vehicle is hibernating outside, make sure it is not on dirt or lawn. These surfaces risk, due to humidity, weakening the floor and the structure. Provide wooden planks covered with plastic sheeting. Also, better remove the battery. Store it in a cool, dry and accessible place since you will need to make sure to keep its charge level during the winter.