Winter Car Storage Tips for Hershey, PA Drivers

Protecting Your Car or Truck During the Cold Winter Season

Winter is here and with it comes conditions that make is difficult to drive on the icy, windblown roads of Hershey, PA. And, this weekend is no exception; according to WHTM ABC27, a wind advisory alert has been issued and includes Dauphin County. Because of weather like this, many Hershey drivers decide to store their primary car to protect it from the harsh conditions that come with the colder months.

3 Essential Tips to Protect Your Vehicle

Proper winter car storage is essential to ensure your vehicle stays in top condition and is ready to hit the road when spring arrives. So, in this blog, the experts at Meineke in Hershey explore top three tips to help you store your car effectively during winter.

Clean and Protect

Before putting your car into storage, give it a thorough cleaning inside and out. For example, remove any dirt, salt, or grime from the exterior to prevent corrosion and damage to the paint. Once cleaned, apply a protective wax to the exterior to create a barrier against the elements. Then, clean the interior to eliminate any food crumbs or liquids that could attract pests. Additionally, consider investing in a quality car cover. Because, a breathable, weather-resistant cover will shield your vehicle from snow, ice, and other winter elements. And, make sure the cover fits snugly to prevent moisture from accumulating underneath, as this can lead to mold and mildew.

Fluid Check and Maintenance

Before storing your car or truck for an extended period, perform a thorough check of all fluids. For example, change the oil and oil filter to remove any contaminants that could harm the engine during storage. Additionally, it's a good idea to top up other fluids such as coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Then, consider adding a fuel stabilizer to your gas tank to prevent the fuel from deteriorating and causing issues with the engine. Also, a full tank of gas will help minimize the risk of condensation forming inside the fuel tank. Then, inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent flat spots and reduce stress on the suspension components.

Battery Care

Car batteries can lose their charge over time, especially in cold temperatures. So, to prevent a dead battery when you're ready to bring your car out of storage, either disconnect the battery or invest in a quality trickle charger. Because, a trickle charger provides a low, steady charge to the battery, keeping it at an optimal level without overcharging. Then, before storing the battery, clean the terminals and apply a corrosion-resistant spray to prevent buildup. However, if you choose to disconnect the battery, store it in a cool, dry place. When it's time to reconnect, ensure the terminals are clean and secure.

Proper winter car storage is a proactive approach to ensuring it performs when you're ready to drive again.

By following these three essential tips from the experts at Meineke you'll be well-prepared to face the challenges of winter and enjoy a trouble-free driving experience come springtime. If you need any help getting your car or truck ready for storage, contact the ASE certified experts at Meineke on Chocolate Avenue in Hershey.

If the Hershey location is not convenient, Meineke has 13 car care centers in south central Pennsylvania: