There’s a lot to enjoy during the winter months—but unfortunately, those activities don’t usually involve motorcycles, dirt bikes, ATVs, or most other recreational vehicles. Instead, when the weather turns cold, it’s time to prepare these machines for winter storage. Of course, this task must be done carefully so everything remains in good condition for the spring. Use the following vehicle storage tips for guidance.
Find a suitable vehicle storage spot.
Before you do anything else, you need to pick a good location for keeping your machine. It’s best to choose a garage or another enclosed space with concrete flooring. If you leave your vehicle outdoors, it could be exposed to harsh weather and excess moisture that could cause rust issues. However, we understand that not everyone has access to a nice garage. If you must keep your machine outdoors, cover it with a breathable, weather-resistant material.
Give it a good cleaning.
One of the best ways to maintain a machine is to keep it clean. Before locking a vehicle up for the winter, clear out trash and vacuum it to avoid attracting pests. Then, remove dirt buildup by washing and drying every exterior inch. You could also polish and wax it to help keep corrosion at bay.
Take care of the tires and brakes.
Your tires will deflate as the temperature cools, so fill them with the maximum amount of air. You should also place wedges under the tires to keep your machine immobile during the vehicle storage period. Do this instead of engaging the parking brake, which could freeze in the winter.
Remember the fluids.
Keep your vehicle running smoothly by filling the gas tank before storing it and ensuring that it has clean oil and enough brake fluid. You could also use a fuel stabilizer to stop the gas from deteriorating or blocking up your engine.
Don’t forget it.
It’s never a good idea to leave a vehicle alone for an entire season. Occasionally, run the engine for about 10 to 15 minutes and let the oil and coolants circulate. Just remember to open the doors and windows first as a safety precaution.
Keep your coverage.
Your vehicle storage spot might feel like a safe location, but it’s not. It could still suffer storm damage or vandalism, so talk to your MTG agent before canceling insurance coverage during the winter months.