This winter has already bared its teeth, recording some of the worst below-freezing temperatures on record. In fact, some parts of the Midwest even recorded temperatures equal to or below those in the Arctic Circle. One of the last things you’d want to be thinking about while trying to stay warm during such frigid times is how the cold will affect your classic car. That’s why using the right storage tips will help to safeguard your vehicle to make it until the spring thaw.
Classic cars require a little extra care no matter what time of year, but when it comes to winter storage in the colder parts of the country it goes even further. Taking the time to properly store your care so it makes it until spring will save you time and money in the long run and can even prevent some pretty expensive damage and repairs. Here are some maintenance tips to keep in mind to hold your classic car over until spring.
Get Insured
You may already have auto insurance for your classic car or think that you don’t need it because maybe you don’t take it out too much. But did you know you still need adequate coverage to keep your ride and those around you safe? That may be a blanket statement, but there are auto insurance options that ensure protection even more than conventional standards. Classic car storage insurance is an option that is specifically suited for vintage automobiles including protection while they are housed for longer periods of time. Having classic car storage insurance will add a layer of protection for a car you have spent a good deal of time and money keeping in mint condition over the years.
Get the Details
It’s very important to keep a car clean and dry with wax and surface cleaners before it’s tucked away. If you’re moving the car from storage space to storage space or just checking under the tarp on how things are looking, it may be best to give it another washing or wipe down to ensure it is clean and pristine. Having it detailed by a professional can also ensure things like the trunk, glass, carpets and rubber areas are of the highest quality and can be ready for spring.
Replace Engine Oil and Check the Fuel
If you haven’t done this already—and it’s a good thing to do before the car goes into storage—replace the oil so you ensure lasting quality in your engine. The most important factor to keep in mind with engine oil is mileage. Modern oil, such as synthetic, is stable for about a year in the engine.
For the fuel, make sure you add fuel stabilizer and top off the gas tank. This will allow the fuel stabilizer to mix with the fresh fuel inside. If you’re able to, take the car for a quick spin to make sure the stabilized fuel is pulled into the carburetor and the injectors.
It’s important to keep an eye on your classic ride until things clear up in the spring. If the weather has already turned from bad to worse, you may not be able to use all these tips—such as taking it for a quick drive—but you can still check on things like fuel and oil to make sure nothing has leaked or gone awry. This will help to ensure that you are back up and running in the spring.
About Newman Crane & Associates Insurance
Deciding what coverage you need and what limits and deductibles make the most sense can be tricky. Since 1965, Newman Crane & Associates Insurance has been helping Central Floridians make sense of their options and make the smartest choices for their circumstances. Whether you need Warehouse Insurance or any other type of business or personal coverage, we encourage you to contact our friendly, experienced, and capable team today. Call us at (407) 859-3691 for a consultation.