Protect your Auto this Winter

Winter is the bane of every classic or antique car. Every year, owners have to devise a foolproof strategy to protect their iconic autos from chest-deep snows, damaging ice buildup, and of course, other cars.

Whether you live in a city, a suburb, or out in the country, your degree of preparation will determine if you’re prized auto is successfully able to survive the winter. Here’s a quick look at what it takes to protect your investment no matter where you store it.

Street-side Survival

Perhaps the most nerve-wracking place to store an antique car is on the side of the road with all the other cars people drive daily. Unfortunately, some of us living in the city are stuck with this option, since it doesn't usually come with a hefty price tag or require you to navigate a shady remote parking lot in an unfamiliar area.

So, keeping your car safe requires a few pieces of Automotive Equipment

• Bumper guards, to protect against other cars sliding on ice;
• A heavy-duty tarp to protect from snow and ice on the topside (ideally it will cover your tires too);
• Winter tires, which are only labeled as such because you’ll put them on in the winter while you bring your whitewalls inside.

Of course, for peace of mind, you’ll probably have to head out to your car once a day and check up on it, maybe even moving it here and there to avoid street cleaning or plows.

Suburban Garage Storage

The advantage of suburban living—for antique car owners, at least—is the garage space. If you’re lucky (or you planned well) your garage will have enough room for a car lift that can let you continue to work on your auto throughout the winter months, provided you have an ample heating system handy.

You’d do well to keep the car covered with a heavy tarp anyway; the extra protection could help if you live in an area where the temps get unbearably cold and ice can find its way into nooks and crannies.

Premium Storage Facilities

If you've got a seriously high-value investment vehicle, you might not want to chance a winter on the street or in a personal garage. Look for a premium storage facility near your home to keep your auto safe and sound. Some facilities offer climate control, on-site mechanics, and even security.

It’s still recommended that you visit once in awhile, if for no other reason than to check on the little things. Use Air Compressors to regulate the tire pressure and other settings to keep your car in tip-top shape.

When the days get dark and stormy and it feels like the sky is falling, be sure that you've protected your auto thoroughly.