A Long Winter's Nap
One of our fellow rodders contacted us with the idea of featuring an article about "putting the baby to sleep" for the winter. That is, winter storage tips. After mulling it over, we thought it might be a good idea. After all, it's done all the time in one fashion or another and a little discussion wouldn't hurt. Personally speaking, I've done it with many different vehicles in all kinds of settings from warm to cold and garage to offsite storage space.

In order to keep the information impartial (despite having my own theory on it), I decided to do some research to see what other "experts" had to say on the matter. I'm still not sure whether that was a mistake or not.

To start, I picked my favourite Internet search engine and typed in "winter storage tips for cars". The result was one of those OH MY GOD situations where you get more results than you thought possible. In any case, I dug in and started from the top. The authors ranged from automotive journalists to repair shop owners to people like you and me with an opinion. One thing is for sure, if you're looking for a definitive answer, don't look. While there are a few areas of agreement, there are mostly differences of opinion.

Here are some of the findings:

Oil & Filter
Right off the bat, we get two schools of thought. 1) fresh oil and filter, run the motor to circulate, then shutdown 2) You're going to want to drain it in the spring, just in case any condensation formed in the crankcase, so don't bother. I go with 2) but it's your choice. It certainly won't hurt to put fresh oil in it.

Cooling System
No brainer here. First, make sure you've got a 50/50 mix of water and "antifreeze" and test it to be sure it still has the strength to do the job. Secondly, run the car with the heater on/open (if you have a heater) to circulate through the heater core also. This second step is really only necessary if you're putting a fresh mix in.

Battery
Once again, most agree about removing the battery, taking it inside, keeping it off a concrete floor and giving it a charge every month. There are a few variations on the theme here but not by much.

To Jack Up or Not to Jack Up? That is the question
The jury is out here also. Some recommend putting the car on stands, others say "why bother?" Those that recommend it, universally agree that the suspension should stay compressed. If dealing with independent suspensions, and using the frame for support, you should compress the suspension in some way. I've done this and it's a lot of work.

The other side of the coin is to leave the car on the ground, with properly inflated tires. If you're concerned about flat spots and your wheel bearings, move the car a foot or so periodically forwards and back (assuming you have the space).

Moisture Control
Some pretty simple treatments here:
If you have any concern about moisture rising from the floor (if you have a floor versus gravel for example), lay down some plastic sheeting. Also, don't pile stuff around the car if you can avoid it. Air circulation is important.

If you can cover the car with a breathable car cover, go for it. If it's in cold storage, don't take the cover on and off frequently as condensation will set up on metal surfaces that might remain when the cover goes back on. Leaving the windows open slightly will also allow for circulation. Some "experts" recommend putting a open box of baking soda inside the car for moisture/odour control.

Covering the Car
Dust and damage control are the objectives if inside, element control if outside. There are all kinds of covers available to do the job. Avoid plastic like the plague. And, there's no sense covering it if the car is dirty already. Clean it first, then cover.

Putting Oil in the Cylinders
Once again, there's varying opinions here. If you want to squirt some light oil in the spark plug holes and then turn over the engine (without starting it obviously), go for it. It can't hurt.

Gasoline and Gas Tanks
Another "chestnut" here and lots of opinions. Some say fill 'er up to prevent condensation, others say not to worry about it as your going to have all that old gas to burn off in the spring. I favour filling the tank and adding gas line antifreeze to handle water then running it through the system..

On the subject of gasoline stabilizers, there are also many opinions as the products vary. For a couple of months, I don't bother but it's your call.

That covers the main areas (and there are more). Some people go to great lengths, others simply park their car and walk away. In the end, you have to decide what will work for you and how much time you want to spend.

Given that there are many opinions, feel free to add something (or challenge). We'll publish whatever we receive

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