Owning collector cars can be a lot of fun, but if you want to enjoy your vehicle for years to come, you need to keep it safe during the winter. As the team behind the Charlotte AutoFair Produced by Hornets Nest Region, AACA in Mecklenburg County, NC explains, winter storage is typically your best bet for antique cars. But how can you prep your vehicle for short-term winter storage? The following tips will help you out.

Top 3 Tips to Prepare Collector Cars for Winter Storage

1. Basic Maintenance

Taking care of a few basic maintenance tasks before putting a vintage vehicle in short-term winter storage will leave it ready for use. Top off the gas tank, get an oil change, and put some extra air in the tires. This will help prevent moisture buildup and extra air loss so that your vehicle is ready for use once the weather warms up again.

2. Cover It Up

After taking care of basic maintenance, it is essential that you shelter your vehicle to protect it from the elements. Put your vehicle in a garage, and for added protection, cover it with a quality car cover. However, owners of collector cars should not use a waterproof cover, as this could trap moisture against the vehicle body, resulting in paint damage.

3. Plan for Consistent Checkups

After your vehicle has been put away, you’ll still need to check on it every two to four weeks to keep it in good shape. Warm up the engine and take it for a short drive—while running the defroster—to dry out any condensation and lubricate the transmission and compressor seals. Schedule these drives in advance as part of your winter prep, taking weather conditions into account so that you can avoid road salt and other hazards.

With a fantastic selection of collector cars, the Charlotte AutoFair is the perfect location for buying and selling classic vehicles. To learn more about attending this bi-annual car show, visit them online or call (704) 841-1990.