If you have a classic car and you know that you will not be taking it out or driving it during the winter months, you need to prepare your vehicle for winter storage. Here are a few things to keep in mind as you prepare your classic car for winter storage.
Detail The Inside Of Your Vehicle
The first thing you need to do is detail the inside of your vehicle. You don't want to put it into storage when there are any crumbs or dirt inside of it. Those could attract little pests that could wreak havoc on your classic car. Vacuum the floor and remove the floor pads. Vacuum out all the little nooks and crannies as well. Use cleaning wipes designed for the inside of your vehicle to wipe down the doors, cubbies and dashboard. If you have cloth seats, vacuum them thoroughly. If you have leather seats, treat them with wax.
If you don't have time to really detail the inside of your vehicle on your own, take it to a professional.
Detail The Outside Of Your Vehicle
The second thing you need to do is detail the outside of your vehicle. To start with, thoroughly wash your vehicle from top to bottom. Then, use a window cleaner on the inside and outside of all of your windows. Next, wax and buff your vehicle. This will protect the paint while your vehicle is in storage.
Next, buff the glass on your headlights, tail lights and brake lights. Finally, individually wash each tire and polish the rims with the appropriate polish based on the types of rims that you have.
Purchase A Cover For Your Vehicle
The third thing that you need to do to get your classic car ready for winter storage is to purchase a cover for your vehicle.
If possible, try to avoid purchasing a universal car cover. When you purchase a universal car cover, the cover will most likely not snugly fit your vehicle. Most universal car covers are not designed to protect your vehicle from harsh elements, such as snow or excessive heat. They offer the most basic types of coverage.
Instead, purchase a car cover that is specifically designed for your vehicle. This will provide you with the most snug fit possible, which will help keep moisture away from your vehicle and keep it safe while it is in storage.
You also need to take into consideration where you are storing your vehicle when purchasing a custom cover. If you will be storing your vehicle outside, where it is likely to encounter snow and rain, you'll want to purchase a cover that is extremely waterproof. If your vehicle will be parked somewhere where it will be exposed to a lot of heat and sun, you'll want a cover that blocks the sun's UV rays.
If your classic car will be stored in a self storage unit, you'll want to purchase a heavy indoor car cover that will protect your vehicle from dings and dents. You'll also want a cover that is breathable, blocks dust, is mildew- and rot-resistant, and has a soft-inner layer that rests directly against your vehicle. To really protect your vehicle, you can wrap it inside a car storage bag after you put the car cover on.
Before you put your classic car into storage for the winter, it is vital that you clean your vehicle inside and outside and purchase the right type of cover to keep it safe. If you take these steps, your classic car will look just as great when you pull it out of storage as when you put it in storage.
Share
