Keep your car looking great and protective from the worst effects of winter weather. Whether you’re storing your summer ride in an inflatable car storage bubble or taking care of your year-round commuter, use these winter car care tips to protect your investment.
Should You Store Your Car in Winter?
Winter car storage is a good solution for summertime rides. A convertible, two-wheel-drive car or outdoor sports vehicle are all unsuited for winter driving. Simply parking your car for months at a time can cause exterior damage, so use the following preparation steps for winter weather storage.
First, thoroughly wash your car and clean the interior. Car shampoo, polish, wax and dusting with the best car duster for paint are great ways to avoid storing a dirty exterior.
Any caked-on dirt, dust, sand, tree sap and other contaminants can fade, scratch and otherwise compromise your paint through the winter. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions on using shampoo, polish and wax for a beautiful shine and durable protective coat.
Consider adding fuel stabilizer to your stored vehicle to prevent moisture issues in your fuel tank. An oil change before storage prevents contaminants from causing damage. Your car battery also needs to be prepared for storage.
Storing a battery for a few months without a recharge can permanently damage it. Remove your battery and connect it to a trickle charger to keep it charged and ready to go in the spring.
Your tire air pressure is typically reduced in cold temperatures. Periodically check the air pressure of your tires, whether stored or in use, to see if they need to be filled up. A slow air leak in a tire can turn into a flat tire if it’s stored all winter.
A clean car can be protected with an indoor car cover or a storage bubble. Long-term outdoor storage isn’t recommended, so clear space in your garage to prevent moisture issues and animal damage.
An interior car cover uses a soft interior to prevent paint scratches and a moisture-resistant exterior. This prevents dust and light moisture from collecting on your vehicle in your garage. It also allows it to breathe, preventing condensation on it.
How To Prepare Your Car for Winter Weather
Your year-round vehicle needs to be ready for winter weather as well. Take this time to inspect your tires for signs of wear. Consider changing out your summer tires for a set of winter ones for improved cold-weather traction. Replace balding tires to avoid dangerous driving conditions.
Just like your stored car, your everyday driver can be affected by moisture changes, road salt and snow. Continue to clean your car and use a car duster to wipe off any debris. A clean car helps you feel great throughout the winter months and prevents road salt, collected dust or other debris from damaging your vehicle.
Shop online to pick up an affordable duster, custom-fit cover and other must-have accessories. Don’t let the cold weather surprise you, but prepare your vehicle for long-term storage or safe driving on winter roads with durable covers and affordable accessories.
