5 Tips When Storing a Vehicle for the Winter

Saskatchewan winters can be harsh with snow, ice and cold temperatures and many people will put vehicles into storage. Follow these 5 simple tips to help store your vehicle and save you some hassle in the spring!

1. Keep the Battery Charged/Warm

Invest in a trickle charge that you can plug into the wall and hook up to your battery to keep the crank amps strong so it will turn over just like when you parked it in fall. If you store the vehicle in an area where you don’t have access to power take the battery out of the car and keep it somewhere warm for the winter.

2. Beware of Bugs & Mice

When it starts getting cold outside these little critters try to find a warmer place to stay in the winter and your car is a definite target. To reduce the chances of them getting into your vehicle, there are a couple things you can do! First of all, make sure the vehicle is completely clean on the interior especially food or crumbs as this attracts vermin. Next you should try and seal off any entrance points for them to get into your vehicle including exhaust and ventilation.

3. Air Up the Tires

Pump your vehicle’s tires up to the max PSI rating indicated on the wall of the tire. By doing so, when you go to take the vehicle out of storage the tires won’t be completely flat (unless there is a leak) from temperature changes.

4. Fill The Tank & Change the Engine Oil

The fuller the tank, the less chance excess moisture will build up in open spaces, which can cause the tank to rust. Oil changes provide peace of mind! Unless you’re only storing the vehicle for a week or two, you should consider changing the engine oil. Leaving dirty, old oil in your vehicle over time can lead to rusting within the engine. By getting an oil change, you can remove any moisture, sludge and contaminants which will settle over time.

5. Place The Vehicle On a Storage Policy

Insuring your vehicle while it is in storage is not mandatory, but is definitely recommended as the price to cover your vehicle while it is in storage is extremely cheap compared to a $700 deductible through your plates or no insurance in the event the plates are not registered on the vehicle. 

Contact your Cornerstone Insurance broker today if you have any questions about insuring your vehicle while in storage!  We can be reached at 1-888-763-8635 or by email at hello@csinsure.ca