Storing a classic car is about more than just parking it in a garage-it’s about keeping an important piece of history safe. If you want your classic car to stay in good shape and keep its value, you need to take special care when putting it away for a long time. It’s not as easy as finding any empty space; you need to think about the environment, how you prepare the car, and what you do while it’s stored. Done right, your car will be protected from weather and aging. Done wrong, it could develop problems that are expensive to fix or lose the charm that makes it special.
This simple guide covers the most important steps for storing a classic car. You’ll learn how to choose the best place to store it, how to get the car ready, and how to look after it while it’s not being used. Whether you’re storing your car for the winter or for a long period of time, these tips will help keep it in great shape until you’re ready to drive it again.
Things to Think About Before Storing a Classic Car
Before you choose a storage spot, you should know why proper storage matters. It’s not only about keeping the car looking good-it also stops damage that could lower the car’s value and cost a lot to repair.
Classic cars often use older materials and designs that can be sensitive to their surroundings, more so than newer vehicles. Recognizing these issues is the first step in planning good storage.
How Does Good Storage Stop Damage?
Good storage keeps your classic car safe from things like bad weather, moisture, and sunlight. It’s like creating the perfect environment for your car so nothing can harm it. Keeping the temperature and humidity steady stops things like vinyl from cracking and keeps metal from rusting.
Sunlight can fade your paint job and make rubber and vinyl weak. Storing your car indoors lets you control how much light and heat reaches it, protecting both the outside and inside of your classic.
What Can Go Wrong with Poor Storage?
When you store your car the wrong way, many things can go wrong. If you leave a classic out in the open-even with a simple cover-it can get rust, water damage, and paint problems from rain, snow, or sun. Changes in temperature can make rubber and fluids break down faster.
Storing your car somewhere unsafe also makes it easier for thieves or vandals to cause damage or steal it. Failing to protect your car properly can mean losing both money and something special to you.
How to Pick the Best Storage Place
Where you keep your classic car is one of the most important choices you’ll make. The right setting protects the car, while a poor choice can undo all your other efforts. Indoor vs. outdoor storage, climate control, and security all play a part.
Every option has pros and cons, and your perfect choice depends on your budget, how long you’ll leave the car, and what your vehicle needs.
| Storage Option | Benefits | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|
| Indoor Storage | Best protection from weather and theft; controlled environment | Usually more expensive |
| Outdoor Storage | Cheaper; accessible | Higher risk of damage and theft |
| Carport/Portable Garage | Some weather protection; more affordable | Not fully enclosed; less secure |
| Heated Storage | Stable temperature; easy maintenance | Higher cost |
Is Indoor or Outdoor Better?
Indoor storage is much safer for classic cars. Buildings like garages or storage units protect from weather and reduce theft risk. Outdoor storage is cheaper, but exposes your car to rain, sun, snow, and possible theft or vandalism. Whenever you can, choose indoor storage.
Why Pick Heated Storage?
Heated storage keeps the inside temperature steady, often around 50°F (10°C). This is best for looking after rubber, oil, and other parts that don’t like temperature swings. A warm space also lets you clean or work on the car during cold weather.
Are Regular Storage Units Good Enough?
Some regular storage units can work well, but you need to choose carefully. Look for units with good security and climate control. Make sure the unit is big enough for your car (usually 10ft x 20ft or 10ft x 30ft). Some places don’t allow car storage, so always check first.
Can Carports or Tents Work?
If garages or storage units aren’t available, carports and portable garages may help a bit. They keep rain and bird droppings off your car but leave the sides open to wind and are not as strong. Tents can trap humidity or blow away in high winds. These options are better than nothing, but not ideal.
Best Type of Ground and Building for Car Storage
The floor and building features affect how well your car is protected. Storing a car on a poorly drained or damp surface can start rust from the bottom up.
Is Gravel Better Than Concrete?
In a building that isn’t heated, a gravel base is better than new concrete. Concrete that is still drying gives off a lot of moisture. Gravel drains better and keeps humidity down, helping to stop rust under your car.
Should You Use Plastic Sheeting?
Paving is helpful, but even then, you should park on a thick plastic sheet or insulation foam to keep moisture away from under your car. This protects the bottom, exhaust, and brakes from dampness and rust, even in heated spaces.
Is Drainage Important?
If you plan to wash or work on your car inside, a floor with a drain helps clear out water and keeps the place dry. This can stop rust and make it easier to clean the car after winter drives.
How to Get Your Classic Car Ready for Storage
Getting your car ready is key before you store it away for months. Skipping steps can lead to problems like rust, mold, or engine trouble later on. Careful preparation protects every part of the vehicle.
Here is a checklist for preparing your classic car for storage:
| Step | Why It’s Important |
|---|---|
| Wash and Wax | Removes dirt and prevents paint damage |
| Clean Interior | Prevents odors and critter infestations |
| Use Car Cover | Protects from dust and scratches |
| Prevent Rust | Keeps metal parts safe from corrosion |
| Top Off Fluids | Prevents system failures |
| Add Fuel Stabilizer | Keeps fuel fresh |
| Lubricate Moving Parts | Stops hinges, latches from sticking |
| Protect Tires | Avoids flat spots |
| Disconnect Battery | Prevents battery drain or damage |
Clean Inside and Out
Thoroughly wash and wax your car before storage. Clean wheel arches and undercarriage, but don’t use a power washer. Inside, vacuum and remove any food that could attract pests. Baking soda in the car can help with odors.
Use the Right Covers
A fitted, soft-lined cover is best indoors. Outdoors, a waterproof and breathable cover helps, but still won’t stop all weather damage. Sunshades block UV rays and protect the inside if your car gets any sunlight during storage.
Protect from Rust
Make sure the car is completely dry before covering. Use rust-stopping oil if your storage place is humid. Check regularly for any signs of rust to catch problems early.
Check and Fill All Fluids
Make sure oil, coolant, and other fluids are topped up. If the brake fluid looks bad, change it. Use the oil type your classic needs (usually not synthetic) and change it even if you haven’t hit the recommended mileage.
Add Fuel Stabilizer
Fill up your tank (preferably with non-ethanol fuel). Add stabilizer, then run the engine for 15 minutes so the stabilizer gets through the whole system. This keeps fuel from going bad and stops rust inside the tank.
Lubricate Hinges and Latches
Before storage, grease door, trunk, and hood hinges and latches. Use the correct lubricant found in your car’s manual. This keeps everything working smoothly when you go back to use the car.
Avoid Tire Flat Spots
Pump up the tires above normal pressure to help them keep their shape, or put the car on jack stands if storing more than 6 months. Moving the car now and then also helps keep tires round if you can’t use stands.
Disconnect or Charge the Battery
Car batteries slowly go flat over time if they stay connected. You can either disconnect the battery or leave it on a trickle charger (battery maintainer). If you disconnect it, you’ll need to charge it before starting your car again later.
Outdoor Storage Problems and Solutions
Sometimes you have to keep your car outside. This comes with extra challenges, like more weather and a bigger risk of theft. Take more steps to reduce the risks.
Weather Risks
Rain, snow, and sun can all do harm. Water may cause rust. Sunlight fades paint and makes rubber brittle. Hail and strong winds can physically damage your car.
How to Reduce Rust and Sun Damage Outside
Wash your car every week and wax it every 3-6 months if it’s outside. A quality, breathable cover protects against daily sun and rain. Use sunshades to protect the interior. Covers can’t stop all weather-especially hail or large branches-but they do help with regular exposure.
Basic Upkeep During Storage
Once your car is stored, you still need to check it sometimes. Don’t just park it and forget about it if you want it to be in good shape later.
- Check tire pressure regularly. Cold weather lowers pressure and can damage tires.
- If you start the car, let it run long enough to circulate fluids, but make sure you have good ventilation. This keeps moving parts from getting stuck.
- Check for pests and moisture. Look for rodent nests under the hood, in the trunk, or in the interior. Plug the exhaust and air intakes so nothing can crawl inside.
- If your building isn’t heated, air it out sometimes to keep moisture and odors away.
- If you can, take the car for a short drive to work all the systems. If not, proper preparation and a battery maintainer will help.
Security and Insurance
Protecting your classic from theft is as important as protecting it from the weather. Choose a safe place and take safety steps like alarms or locks. You’ll also need the right insurance to cover any possible problems.
How to Keep Your Car Safe
- Store your car in a locked garage or secure unit whenever possible.
- Park away from busy streets to avoid drawing attention.
- Install smoke and burglar alarms, especially if you keep tools or flammables nearby.
- If earthquakes are a risk, tie down lifts or heavy furniture so they can’t fall on the car.
Insurance Tips
Your regular car insurance might not value your classic correctly. Specialized classic car insurance lets you set an “agreed value” and covers things like theft, fire, and major damage. Check if your policy covers your car in storage-some don’t. Companies like Hagerty offer classic car plans that even cover winter storage.
Tips for Easy Storage and Access
Think ahead about how you’ll get to your car while it’s in storage. Planning will make things easier if you want to check on the car or take it out on short notice.
- Leave space around the car for cleaning and basic tasks.
- If storing several vehicles, make a layout that lets you get to your classic without moving other things.
- Buildings built with post frames can give you more space and cost less if you plan to have a workshop or car lift.
When to Take Your Classic Car Out
If you store your car for the winter, wait until the roads are clear of snow and salt before driving. When bringing your car out, do a thorough check for leaks or rodent damage. Charge the battery and let the car warm up to operating temperature before you drive. Check all lights and controls first, then take a short drive before using it as normal. Clean the car after taking it out of storage to wash away any dust or leftover moisture.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the Best Way to Store a Classic?
The best option is an indoor, climate-controlled space with a dry floor and plenty of preparation including cleaning, topping up fluids, using a fuel stabilizer, and maintaining the battery. Use a plastic sheet if the car sits on gravel or dirt.
How Do I Stop Mold and Odors?
Make sure everything is dry and clean before you put the car away. Don’t leave food or anything damp inside. Place open boxes of baking soda in the cabin and trunk to soak up moisture. Good airflow in the storage area also helps prevent mold.
Conclusion
Storing a classic car needs care and attention to many details if you want to keep it in top shape. Just parking it without preparation isn’t enough. Think about where you live, your car’s needs, and your budget. Whether you use a modern storage facility or your own garage, the time and effort you spend will help your car stay valuable and ready to enjoy for years. A well-stored car won’t just look good-it’s waiting for you to enjoy again, just like the day it was built.