When the first autumn leaf hits you in the face as you drive your convertible down the highway, it’s probably time to start thinking about winter storage for your convertible or warm weather car. However, before you stick your car into an empty storage unit, here are a few things you need to know: [NB1] 

Wash Your Car

Certain stains, like bird droppings and dead insects, can damage car paint if they’re left on the car for too long. Make sure to wash your car thoroughly before putting it in storage and consider giving the car a fresh coat of wax.

Fill Your Tank

It may seem a little crazy to fill your gas tank when you’re not going to drive your car all winter, but filling the gas tank prevents moisture from building up inside the fuel tank and keeps the seals from drying out before spring.

Change Your Oil

Most car manuals recommend changing the oil before storing the car for longer than a month. Old oil has contaminants, which can damage an engine over time.

Start the Battery Every Two Weeks

An unused car battery will go dead if it’s not charged every few weeks. The best way to keep your car battery charged is to turn on the car for 10-15 minutes every two weeks. Make sure the storage door is open while you do this to prevent suffocation from fumes.  If you’re not able to charge your battery throughout the winter, look into disconnecting the negative battery cable. You’ll lose your clock settings and stereo settings, but your battery should work when you return.

Don’t Slack on Your Car Insurance

Sure, it’s tempting to not pay car insurance on your car when you’re not using it, but most car insurance companies raise prices when you have gaps in coverage.  You’ll also want to stay on schedule for your car registration.

From gas to battery power to paperwork, you’ll want to make sure everything is set when you’re ready to drive off the lot on the first warm day of the new year.