How to Winterize A Classic Car: Maintaining Your Classic Car During the Winter Season
As winter settles in, classic car enthusiasts face the crucial task of preparing their prized vehicles for the season's harshest conditions. Cold temperatures, moisture and road salt can wreak havoc on your treasured motor if you don't take proper precautions. The good news? With the right preparation, your classic will emerge from winter storage in top condition, ready for those first spring drives.
Whether you're laying up a Triumph Spitfire, MGB or Land Rover Defender for the season, the fundamentals of how to winterise your classic car remain similar. You'll need to address everything from fluid management to battery care, and each step plays a vital role in protecting your investment.
Understanding Your Classic Car's Winter Needs
Classic cars aren't like modern vehicles with their sophisticated electronics and sealed systems. Your heritage motor requires hands-on attention to survive months of cold, damp conditions.
The biggest threats? Moisture accumulation leading to corrosion, fuel degradation, flat-spotted tyres and battery discharge.
Think of winterisation as putting your car into hibernation. You're essentially preserving everything in a state that makes spring recommissioning straightforward rather than a nightmare of seized components and corroded parts.
Proper winter preparation is crucial to safeguarding your classic against harsh elements. Cold weather can damage various parts, including the engine, battery and bodywork. Storage helps prevent corrosion and mechanical issues that plague neglected vehicles.
Classic Car De-Icer and Ice Prevention Spray
Demon Ice Preventer & De-Icer is your overnight frost prevention and fast morning defrost in one bottle. It's best for classic car owners who drive through winter or store outdoors: the concentrated formula protects your windscreen down to -20°C.
Essential Winter Storage Checklist
Here's your complete preparation checklist to ensure nothing gets overlooked:
- Start by giving your car a thorough wash to remove all dirt and debris that could trap moisture against the bodywork.
- Then apply a good coat of wax to seal the paintwork. This creates a barrier against the damp conditions typical of UK winters.
- Next, check all your fluids. Engine oil should be fresh before storage, as used oil contains contaminants that can attack engine internals during periods of inactivity. Top up your coolant and ensure the antifreeze concentration provides adequate protection; a 50/50 mix typically protects down to around -37°C, well beyond what UK winters throw at us.
- Consider using a fuel stabiliser to keep the petrol fresh and prevent gum formation in the fuel system.
- Then remove the battery and store it in a warm, dry place or use a battery conditioner to maintain its charge.
Key Areas Requiring Attention
Several areas of your classic car require special attention during winter. The cooling system is particularly vulnerable, so ensure your antifreeze is at the correct concentration to prevent freezing and potential engine damage.
Tyres can develop flat spots if left stationary for long periods. To prevent this, inflate your tyres 10-15 psi higher than usual and store your classic on axle stands. Alternatively, move the car slightly every few weeks if possible.
A silicone-based lubricant protects rubber seals and gaskets from drying out and cracking. Then consider using a breathable car cover to allow air circulation while keeping out dust and moisture.
Preparing for Winter Storage
Proper winter storage is crucial for preserving your classic car's condition. Taking the appropriate steps will protect your prized vehicle from damage and ensure it's ready to hit the road when spring arrives.
Selecting Storage Space
Choose a secure, dry storage facility for your classic car. Look for climate-controlled options that maintain consistent temperature and humidity levels. This helps prevent rust and mould growth.
Ensure the facility has adequate space for your vehicle. You'll want room to move around and perform maintenance tasks if needed.
Consider facilities with 24/7 access. This allows you to check on your car periodically throughout the winter months.
Ask about pest control measures, too. Rodents can cause significant damage to wiring and upholstery if left unchecked.
Creating the Right Environment
- Before storage, thoroughly clean and wax your car. This protects the paint and makes spring preparation easier.
- Top up your car with premium fuel and add a fuel stabiliser to prevent degradation. Then check and top up all other fluids, including antifreeze.
- Inflate the tyres to the recommended pressure. To prevent flat spots, consider placing the car on axle stands or tyre savers.
- Use a high-quality, breathable car cover to protect against dust and moisture. Avoid plastic covers that can trap condensation.
- Finally, place desiccant bags inside the car to absorb excess moisture. Change these periodically throughout the storage period.
Security Measures During Storage
Install a battery maintainer to keep your car's battery charged. This prevents battery degradation and ensures your car starts when needed.
Remove valuable items from the car and store them separately. Then consider using a steering wheel lock or additional immobiliser for extra security.
Inform your insurance provider about the storage arrangement. Some policies offer reduced rates for vehicles in long-term storage.
Lift the windscreen wipers off the glass to prevent the rubber from sticking and deteriorating. Then, if possible, check on your car regularly. This allows you to spot and address any issues early.
Maintenance Tasks Before Winterisation
Proper maintenance before winter storage is crucial for preserving your classic car. These tasks will protect vital components and ensure your vehicle is ready for spring.
Changing Fluids and Oils
Start by changing your classic car's engine oil and filter. Fresh oil prevents corrosion and protects internal engine parts during storage. Don't forget to top up the coolant with a suitable antifreeze mixture.
Check your brake fluid level and quality. Old brake fluid absorbs moisture, which can corrode brake components from the inside. If the fluid looks dark or contaminated, replace it before storage.
Top up the gearbox and differential oils if they're due for service. Fresh lubricants provide better protection during storage periods.
Fluid Specifications for Winter Storage
| Fluid Type |
Winter Requirement |
Check Frequency |
| Engine Oil |
Fresh before storage |
Before storage |
| Coolant/Antifreeze |
50/50 mix (protects to -37°C)
|
Before storage |
| Brake Fluid |
Fresh if dark or contaminated |
Before storage |
| Fuel |
Full tank with stabiliser added |
Before storage |
| Gearbox Oil |
Top up if due for service |
Before storage |
Winter Requirement
Fresh before storage
Check Frequency
Before storage
Fluid Type
Coolant/Antifreeze
Winter Requirement
50/50 mix (protects to -37°C)
Check Frequency
Before storage
Winter Requirement
Fresh if dark or contaminated
Check Frequency
Before storage
Winter Requirement
Full tank with stabiliser added
Check Frequency
Before storage
Winter Requirement
Top up if due for service
Check Frequency
Before storage
Maintaining Leather and Upholstery
Proper care of your classic car's interior prevents cracking, fading and mould growth during storage. Start by thoroughly cleaning all surfaces, including leather seats, carpets and dashboard.
Next, apply a quality leather conditioner to prevent drying and cracking. For fabric upholstery, use a fabric protector spray to guard against moisture and stains.
Place silica gel packets or a dehumidifier inside the car to absorb excess moisture. This helps prevent mould growth and musty odours.
Consider using seat covers and a steering wheel cover for added protection. These shield vulnerable surfaces from dust and UV rays that may enter through windows.
Lastly, leave the windows slightly cracked to allow air circulation. However, ensure the gap isn't large enough for pests to enter. This helps prevent moisture build-up inside the vehicle.
Engine and Fuel System Preservation
Protecting your classic car's engine and fuel system during winter storage is crucial. Proper preparation prevents corrosion, fuel degradation and other issues arising from extended periods of inactivity.
Using Fuel Stabilisers
Adding a fuel stabiliser to your tank is essential before winter storage. This additive prevents fuel from deteriorating and forming harmful deposits.
Pour the recommended amount into your fuel tank, then run the engine for a few minutes to circulate the treated fuel throughout the system.
Fuel stabilisers typically keep petrol fresh for up to 12 months, though some products claim protection for up to 24 months. They protect against oxidation and prevent the formation of gum and varnish deposits in the fuel system.
For optimal results, fill your tank before adding the stabiliser. A full tank reduces the air space where moisture can condense, further protecting your fuel system from corrosion.
Dealing with Engine Fluids
Change your engine oil and filter before storage. Fresh oil prevents contaminants from settling and damaging engine components during inactivity.
Then check and top up your antifreeze mixture. A 50/50 blend of antifreeze and water provides optimal protection against freezing and corrosion.
Consider using a fogging oil in the engine cylinders, too. This creates a protective coating on internal engine surfaces.
If you're storing your car in extremely cold conditions, remember to drain the coolant system and refill it with the proper antifreeze mixture to prevent damage from freezing.
Caring for the Carburettor and Fuel Lines
Empty the carburettor float bowls to prevent stale fuel from gumming up the system. Turn off the fuel tap and run the engine until it stops.
Next, disconnect the fuel line and drain any remaining fuel. This prevents degraded fuel from clogging the lines and carburettor jets.
Seal all openings to the carburettor with tape or small plastic bags. This keeps moisture and debris out during storage.
Finally, consider using a fuel system cleaner before storage to remove any deposits or contaminants from the carburettor and fuel lines. Then inspect all fuel lines for cracks or wear. Replace any damaged lines to prevent leaks when you bring your classic car out of storage.
Electrical System Maintenance
Proper care of your classic car's electrical system is crucial for winter storage. Focusing on battery health and preventing system drainage will ensure your vehicle starts reliably come spring.
Implementing Battery Maintenance Techniques
Consider using a battery tender or conditioner to maintain your classic car's battery during winter. These devices keep the battery charged without overcharging, which can damage its cells.
Before storage, clean the battery terminals and apply a thin layer of petroleum jelly to prevent corrosion. If you're not using a battery tender, disconnect the negative terminal to prevent parasitic drain.
Remove the battery entirely and store it in a cool, dry place for long-term storage. Check the electrolyte levels in non-sealed batteries and top up with distilled water if needed.
Preventing Electrical System Drainage
Specific components can slowly drain the battery even when your car is off. To prevent this, start by ensuring all lights, including the boot and glove box, are switched off.
Remove any aftermarket electronics that might draw power, such as stereos with memory functions or GPS trackers. If removal isn't possible, disconnect their power supply.
Consider installing a battery cut-off switch. This switch isolates the battery from the electrical system, eliminating potential drains.
Lastly, if your classic car has a mechanical clock, stop it to prevent unnecessary power consumption during storage.
Post-Winter Resurrection Techniques
Reviving your classic car after winter storage requires careful attention to detail and a systematic approach. Proper recommissioning and thorough system checks ensure your cherished vehicle is ready for the open road again.
Recommissioning Your Classic Car
Begin by removing any protective covers and inspecting your classic car's exterior for signs of damage or moisture.
Check the tyre pressure and inflate as needed, aiming for the manufacturer's recommended levels.
Next, reconnect the battery if you disconnected it during storage. Clean the terminals and ensure a secure connection. Remove any intake or exhaust blockers you may have installed to keep pests out.
Examine all fluid levels, including oil, coolant and brake fluid. Top up if necessary and look for signs of leaks. If you didn't replace the oil and filter before storage, do so now.
Before starting the engine, turn it over by hand to check for any unusual resistance.
When ready, start the engine and let it run for a few minutes, listening for abnormal noises.
Winter Screenwash Concentrate for Clear Visibility
Silverhook Screenwash Concentrate is a 5 litre option that keeps your windscreen clean and clear. It's best for classic car owners who want good value from a larger bottle: dilute according to the season for year-round use.
Spring Recommissioning Checklist
Work through each system methodically to ensure your classic is road-ready:Conduct a thorough brake system inspection. Check the brake fluid level and quality, and test the pedal for firmness. Examine brake lines, hoses and pads for wear or damage.
Test all lights, including headlights, taillights, indicators and brake lights. Replace any burnt-out bulbs and clean the lenses for optimal visibility.
| System |
Check Items |
Action if Issues Found |
| Exterior |
Damage, moisture signs and paintwork condition
|
Address corrosion before starting
|
| Tyres |
Pressure, flat spots and sidewall condition |
Inflate to correct pressure, replace if damaged |
| Battery |
Terminals clean, secure connection, charge level |
Clean terminals, test charge, replace if needed |
| Fluids |
Oil, coolant, brake fluid levels and condition |
Top up or replace, check for leaks |
| Brakes |
Pedal firmness, lines, hoses, pads, discs |
Replace worn components, bleed if spongy |
| Lights |
Headlights, sidelights, indicators, brake lights |
Replace bulbs, clean lenses |
| Belts & Hoses |
Cracks, fraying, looseness, perishing |
Replace if any wear visible |
| Cooling Systems |
Radiator, hoses, connections for leaks |
Repair leaks, pressure test if uncertain |
Check Items
Damage, moisture signs and paintwork condition
Action if Issues Found
Address corrosion before starting
Check Items
Pressure, flat spots and sidewall condition
Action if Issues Found
Inflate to correct pressure, replace if damaged
Check Items
Terminals clean, secure connection, charge level
Action if Issues Found
Clean terminals, test charge, replace if needed
Check Items
Oil, coolant, brake fluid levels and condition
Action if Issues Found
Top up or replace, check for leaks
Check Items
Pedal firmness, lines, hoses, pads, discs
Action if Issues Found
Replace worn components, bleed if spongy
Check Items
Headlights, sidelights, indicators, brake lights
Action if Issues Found
Replace bulbs, clean lenses
Check Items
Cracks, fraying, looseness, perishing
Action if Issues Found
Replace if any wear visible
Check Items
Radiator, hoses, connections for leaks
Action if Issues Found
Repair leaks, pressure test if uncertain
Inspect the suspension components, looking for signs of wear or corrosion. Lubricate moving parts as needed. Check the steering for proper responsiveness and alignment.
Examine all belts and hoses for cracks, fraying or looseness. Replace any that show signs of wear.
Test the cooling system for leaks or damage, including the radiator and coolant hoses.
Finally, take your classic car for a short drive to ensure all systems function correctly. Listen for unusual noises and pay attention to how the vehicle handles.
If you need expert advice on winter preparation for your particular classic, our team at Customer Service brings over 1,000 years of combined experience across all the marques we support. We're here to help keep your treasured motor in top condition through winter and beyond.
Important Safety Notice
This guide provides general information only and should not replace professional mechanical advice. If you're unsure about any procedure, particularly working with fuels, batteries or lifting vehicles, consult a qualified mechanic. Rimmer Bros cannot accept responsibility for work carried out by third parties; for technical advice specific to your vehicle, contact our parts advisors on 01522 568000 (UK) or 1-855-746-2767 (USA/Canada).
Frequently Asked Questions
What steps are involved in preparing a vintage vehicle for colder months?
Preparing a vintage vehicle for colder months is essential to protect it from winter damage. Check and top up all fluid levels, ensuring the correct antifreeze mixture protects against freezing. Clean the car thoroughly, inside and out, removing all dirt and debris. Apply a protective wax coating to the exterior to guard against moisture and salt damage that can occur during winter storage periods.
Which products offer the most effective cold-season protection for classic automobiles?
The most effective cold-season protection products for classic automobiles are high-quality car covers designed for outdoor storage. Look for breathable materials that prevent moisture build-up and condensation. Fuel stabilisers are essential for avoiding fuel degradation during long-term storage periods. Choose a reputable brand specifically formulated for classic cars to ensure proper protection throughout winter.
How can I safeguard my classic car's engine during the winter period?
Safeguarding your classic car's engine during winter is crucial for maintaining its condition. Check the coolant mixture to ensure it can withstand freezing temperatures without damage. Replace spark plugs and inspect the ignition system for optimal cold-weather starting performance. Consider using a battery maintainer to keep the battery charged during storage, preventing damage from deep discharge in cold conditions.
What is the difference between a battery conditioner and a trickle charger?
A battery conditioner is more advanced than a trickle charger for storing classic cars. Battery conditioners monitor the battery's condition and adjust charging patterns automatically, providing bulk charging, absorption phase and maintenance mode as needed. Trickle chargers provide constant low current without monitoring battery state, which can lead to overcharging if left connected too long during winter storage.
How do I prevent tyre flat spots during winter storage?
Preventing tyre flat spots during winter storage is important for maintaining your classic car. Inflate your tyres 10-15 psi higher than usual to reduce compression at the contact patch. Alternatively, place the car on axle stands to remove weight from the tyres entirely, which provides the most effective protection. Moving the car slightly every few weeks also helps if access permits.
When should I use a battery conditioner on my classic car?
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