How to Properly Winterize and Protect Your Vehicle for Seasonal Use

If you own a vehicle that you only drive seasonally, preparing it for storage can help prevent unpleasant surprises when it is time to get back on the road. Whether you are storing a Toyota, Lexus, Honda or Acura in Cherrydale, Greenville, Anderson or Mauldin, SC, a little preparation can help protect the fuel system, battery, tires and other important components while the vehicle sits.

Prepare Your Fuel Before Storing Your Vehicle

Fuel can deteriorate when a vehicle sits unused for an extended period. Before seasonal storage, consider filling the fuel tank and adding a fuel stabilizer according to its instructions. A full tank can help limit space for moisture to accumulate, while the stabilizer helps protect the gasoline during longer periods of inactivity.

Protect Your Car Battery During Storage

A vehicle can slowly drain its battery even when it is not being driven. For longer storage periods, a battery maintainer designed for long-term use can help maintain the battery’s charge. Depending on the vehicle and storage situation, disconnecting the battery may also be an option, although doing so can reset certain vehicle settings.

Protect Your Vehicle from Mice and Other Critters

A quiet, parked vehicle can provide an inviting shelter for mice and other rodents. Before storage, remove food, wrappers and other materials from the interior and keep the surrounding storage area clean. If the vehicle is stored in a garage, sealing openings where rodents could enter can also help. Rodents can damage wiring, hoses and other vehicle components, so prevention is worth considering before a car sits for months.

How Often Should You Check a Stored Vehicle?

Do not completely forget about your vehicle once it is stored. Check on it periodically for signs of leaks, pests, low tire pressure or battery problems. If you plan to drive the vehicle during storage, take it for a proper drive rather than simply starting the engine for a few minutes. Before returning a seasonally stored vehicle to regular use, check its tires, fluids, battery and overall condition

Prepare Your Vehicle for Seasonal Storage

A little maintenance before storage can make getting back behind the wheel much easier. First Class HALT specializes in Honda, Acura, Lexus and Toyota service and can help prepare your vehicle for seasonal storage or inspect it when you are ready to drive again. Contact our Cherrydale, Greenville, Anderson or Mauldin, SC location to schedule service.