Harsh winter weather can be tough on all types of vehicles, and antique cars are no exception. When you’ve invested so much time and money into your vehicle, you want to protect it year-round. Use the guide below to prepare your antique car for the winter season, and you can trust they will be auto show ready come spring.

Where to Store It

There won’t be any opportunities to take your car out for a cruise during the winter, so it’s best to put it in storage the entire season. Don’t settle for outdoor storage or even covered storage; find a place to leave the vehicle indoors. This will protect it from the elements, such as the rain and snow, dirt, and extreme temperatures. If you don’t have a garage in your own home to use, many self-storage places also offer car units. Put down a layer of plastic sheeting on the floor to keep condensation off of the undercarriage, and remove anything from the room that would attract rodents. Those pests may nest inside the car and chew on your hoses and wiring.

How to Prepare the Car for Storage

Prepare the vehicle by giving it a thorough detailing, inside and out. Vacuum and shampoo the interior, then lubricate the door rubber seals with petroleum jelly to keep them from cracking. Wash and wax the exterior, paying special attention to the undercarriage and the rims. Change the oil, replace the brake fluid, and put grease on all of the wheel bearings, steering, and suspension. Drain the cooling system, and disconnect the hoses. Disconnect the battery or remove it entirely if the car will be stored for more than a few months. Remove the tires to put the car up on jacks. Leave the car doors cracked open, so the rubber seals can breathe.

The Charlotte AutoFair is the can’t-miss event for vintage car enthusiasts in the Southeast! When you’re ready to show off your antique cars or do some shopping, sign up for the fair in Charlotte, NC. The vintage car show brings in over 10,000 car collectors and 150,000 guests. Learn more about the event on their website, and call (704) 841-1990 to speak with a friendly representative.