With the show and racing season wrapped up and the temperature beginning to drop, it is time to start thinking about what you are going to do with your ride. Many of you will drive your car over the winter months; many others will store your car for the winter. Information on storing your car will not apply to all, especially those in the sunny southern states. However, if you plan to store your car during the winter months, this is a must read.

Cleaning

Getting your vehicle clean now will be much easier than after it has sat for a few months. Clean the car completely. A thorough clean will include the interior, exterior, undercarriage and under the hood. Any dirt that has accumulated on the vehicle will be much easier to remove now than after it has set for several months. Starting with the interior, be sure to vacuum, dust, and clean everything. The cleaner the car is, the better it will handle storage. Make sure you thoroughly wash the undercarriage. The dirt left on the undercarriage will rust or corrode metal parts while in storage. Cleaning the exhaust thoroughly, especially chrome or stainless exhaust tips will help to keep it from corroding. Once you are done with the undercarriage, it is time to move on to the exterior. Wash the vehicle. Washing can be a daunting task but in the end, it will be worth it. Once the car is clean, give it the best wax job it has ever seen. Wax everywhere there is paint - your car will love you for it. Polish any chrome on the car to keep it preserved over the winter months. Go over the vehicle and make sure it is completely dry before putting it away. Any moisture that remains will corrode metal parts while the vehicle is in storage.

Maintenance/Preparation

Preventative maintenance will help prepare your car for sitting over the winter. You should change the following fluids: