Essential tips for storing your car over winter.
22nd October 2025
Essential tips for protecting your pride and joy.
Classic cars are fantastic things to use car all year round — and we always encourage owners to enjoy them throughout the colder months to keep everything lubricated and lively. That said, many owners prefer to store their classic cars over winter, protecting them from the worst of the weather.
If you’re preparing to tuck your Classic away until spring, here are our top tips for winter storage and maintenance to keep it in perfect condition.
1. Clean, Polish and Dry Thoroughly
It may seem obvious, but it’s vital to store your car spotlessly clean. Any salt or grime left on the bodywork can cause corrosion, and dust trapped beneath a cover can scratch the paint.
Give your car a thorough wash, polish and dry, and use an anti-mould interior wipe-down to prevent damp smells, mildew and mould. A clean car is a happy car!
2. Choose the Right Car Cover
Car covers are a brilliant idea, but only when chosen carefully. Older paintwork can suffer if moisture becomes trapped between the cover and the car, so always opt for a high-quality, breathable cover suited to your storage conditions.
We supply a wide range of tailored indoor and outdoor car covers for all models — give us a call and we’ll help you choose the right one.
3. Overinflate Your Tyres
If your car will be stationary for a while, slightly overinflate the tyres to prevent flat spots and sidewall cracking. Flat-spotted tyres can cause vibration and may require replacement, so this small step can save you a costly headache later.
4. Treat Your Fuel
Modern fuels (especially those containing ethanol) don’t age well, leading to fuel gumming in carburettors and lines. To avoid this, use a winter fuel stabiliser or consider a sustainable drop-in fuel like Sustain, which remains stable during long-term storage and helps prevent corrosion and blockages.
We supply Sustain fuel directly from our onsite pump or in drums delivered to your door.
5. Check All Fluid Levels
Before tucking your car away, make sure all fluids are topped up — especially antifreeze if you’re storing the car outdoors. Proper fluid levels protect your engine and cooling system through cold temperatures.
6. Avoid Leaving the Handbrake On
If possible, store your car in gear with wheel chocks rather than using the handbrake. This helps prevent brake shoes or pads from seizing, particularly on cars with drum brakes.
7. Keep Your Battery Healthy
Use a battery conditioner or trickle charger throughout the winter to preserve your battery’s health and keep electronic components alive. This is especially important for newer cars and modern classics — no one likes warning lights when it’s time to fire up again in spring. “I learnt the hard way with my E46 M3, it lights up like a Christmas tree, not the kind of festive lighting I enjoy.”
8. Guard Against Vermin
One of the biggest risks during storage is rodent damage. Mice and rats love nesting in warm places and can chew through wiring, trim and insulation.
Keep the area clean and free from temptation — remove rags, cardboard and food — and consider deterrents if vermin are common in your area.
9. If You Run It, Drive It
If you plan to start the car occasionally, make sure to take it for a proper drive to get everything up to temperature. Letting it idle briefly can cause condensation to build up in the engine and exhaust system and other components.
10. Don’t Forget to SORN
If like me you’re paying over £500 a year in road tax, don’t forget to declare your car SORN while it’s off the road. It’s quick, easy, and saves money during the months your car isn’t being used.
Ready for Winter Storage?
With a little preparation, you can ensure your car stays protected and ready to roar back to life in spring.
We’re always happy to help with car covers, fuel additives, storage advice and winter servicing — everything you need for classic car winter storage done properly.
👉 Get in touch with our workshop team today to discuss storage products, sustainable fuel options, or a pre-storage health check for your classic car.
