Whether you’re storing it for the winter or indefinitely, your classic car will be safest inside an enclosed storage unit. However, you’ll also need to do your part to prepare it for this temporary home. Here’s how to preserve your ride while it’s in storage.

How to Prepare Your Classic Car for Storage

1. Under the Hood

First, schedule an oil change and a filter replacement so that the oil doesn’t congeal around the engine’s metal parts. If necessary, fill up the antifreeze reservoir. If you’re storing your car for more than a few months, you’ll also want to tend to the brake and transmission system.

If the brake fluid is over a year old and the transmission fluid is over two years old, flush them both to prevent the build up of contaminants. Then, either unhook the battery and remove it from the vehicle or install a battery tender to keep it from permanently dying.

2. Tires

Since your tires will deflate over time, you’ll want to pump some air into them so that they’re firm for storage. If you’re planning to keep your classic car tucked away for a while, place the vehicle on jack stands. When it’s lifted off the ground, the tires won’t develop flat spots.

3. Fuel Tank

An empty or even partially depleted fuel tank will be vulnerable to condensation, which can lead to rusting from the inside out. To prevent this, fill up the fuel tank all the way, and add a fuel stabilizer before leaving your car in storage.  

4. Exterior

Hand-wash your classic car to remove any dirt and dust that have settled on the body, and dry it with a lint-free microfiber towel. This way, when you slip on the vehicle cover, these particles won’t scrape away at the finish. Then, cover the air inlet and exhaust pipes with a plastic bag to prevent pests from sneaking in.

If you’ve been searching for a reliable car storage facility, turn to HHC Mini Warehouses of Dalton, GA. They have over three decades of experience safeguarding classic automobiles and boats for customers throughout Northwest Georgia. With their convenient loading docks and climate-controlled units, you can rest assured that your vehicle will be ready to drive when you take it out. To learn more about this family-owned and -operated storage facility, visit their website, or call (706) 278-0333 today to ask about unit availability.