How Do You Winterize a Car for Storage?
Sep 4, 2026 / Public Storage
Winterize a car for storage by cleaning it, checking tire pressure and fluids, following manufacturer guidance for the fuel system and battery, and choosing a vehicle space that fits the weather and storage period. Start before temperatures drop so you have time to complete maintenance, remove personal items, and confirm vehicle-storage requirements.
Public Storage offers vehicle storage at select locations for eligible cars. Vehicles stored at Public Storage must be operable, registered, and insured.
Winter Car Storage Essentials:
- Wash and dry the vehicle before storage.
- Remove food, trash, loose items, and personal belongings from the interior.
- Check tire pressure using the vehicle’s recommended PSI.
- Review the owner’s manual for fuel-system and battery-storage guidance.
- Check oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid before winter storage.
- Use a fitted vehicle cover when it fits the storage setting and vehicle type.
- Keep the vehicle locked with windows, trunk, and sunroof closed.
- Confirm vehicle eligibility, space dimensions, access hours, and location requirements before reserving.
- Check the stored car periodically during the winter.
Winter Car Storage at a Glance:
How Should You Clean a Car Before Winter Storage?
Clean a car before winter storage by washing and drying the exterior, vacuuming the interior, and removing food, trash, and loose belongings. Dirt, road grime, tree sap, and food residue can build up while the car is parked for several months.
Before storage:
- Wash the exterior and allow it to dry fully.
- Remove road residue, leaves, and other debris.
- Vacuum seats, carpets, floor mats, and the cargo area.
- Remove food, drinks, wrappers, and reusable bags.
- Check under seats, door pockets, the glove compartment, and trunk.
- Remove personal items and loose papers.
- Close windows, doors, the trunk, and sunroof before leaving the vehicle.
How Should You Prepare Tires for Winter Car Storage?
Prepare tires for winter storage by checking pressure and inflating each tire to the PSI listed on the vehicle’s tire-information label or in the owner’s manual. Tires can lose pressure during extended parking, especially as temperatures change.
Before storing the car:
- Check tire pressure when tires are cool.
- Look for visible wear or damage.
- Park on a level, dry surface.
- Avoid standing water and wet ground.
- Review vehicle manufacturer guidance for longer-term tire care.
Consult a qualified automotive professional before using jack stands or changing how the vehicle is supported.
Should You Fill the Gas Tank Before Storing a Car?
Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s guidance for fuel preparation before winter storage. Some vehicles may require a full fuel tank, fuel stabilizer, or another manufacturer-approved process based on the vehicle type and expected storage period.
If you use a fuel stabilizer, follow both the vehicle and product instructions. Complete fuel-related maintenance before moving the car into vehicle storage.
Do not bring fuel containers, fuel stabilizer, oil, or other hazardous materials into a Public Storage space.
What Fluids Should You Check Before Winter Car Storage?
Check engine oil, coolant, and windshield washer fluid before winter storage. If an oil change is due, complete it before parking the vehicle for an extended period.
Review the owner’s manual for:
- Oil-change intervals
- Coolant or antifreeze requirements
- Windshield washer fluid appropriate for expected temperatures
- Vehicle-specific maintenance guidance
- Long-term storage recommendations
A qualified automotive professional can help with questions about fluids, maintenance, and winter driving preparation.
Should You Disconnect a Car Battery for Winter Storage?
Review the owner’s manual before disconnecting a car battery for winter storage. A battery can lose charge when a vehicle remains unused, but disconnecting it may affect electronic settings or vehicle systems.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for battery disconnection, battery maintenance, or charging. Do not use a battery maintainer or other electrical equipment at a vehicle-storage space unless the location specifically confirms it is allowed.
Should You Cover a Car During Winter Storage?
Use a fitted car cover when it fits the vehicle and storage setting. Cover a car only after it is clean and fully dry.
For indoor or enclosed vehicle storage, a breathable fitted cover can limit dust on the vehicle. For outdoor storage, compare weather-resistant cover options designed for the vehicle and local conditions.
Avoid rough tarps, loose plastic sheeting, or covers that can hold moisture against the vehicle finish.
What Type of Vehicle Storage Is Best for Winter?
Choose vehicle storage based on your vehicle, local weather, storage period, and access needs. Public Storage offers outdoor parking, covered parking, and enclosed vehicle units at select locations for eligible vehicles.
Measure the vehicle’s length, width, and height before reserving. Include mirrors, roof racks, spoilers, and other exterior accessories in the measurement.
How Often Should You Check a Car in Winter Storage?
Check a car periodically during winter storage, especially when it will remain parked for several months. A regular check can help you review tire condition, exterior cleanliness, the car cover, and the parking area.
During a check-in:
- Look for debris or moisture around the vehicle.
- Inspect the tires.
- Check the vehicle cover, if used.
- Review the battery plan according to manufacturer guidance.
- Confirm that the interior remains free of food and loose items.
- Follow owner’s manual guidance before starting or driving the vehicle.
Prepare Your Car for Winter Storage.
Winter car storage starts with a clean, dry vehicle, manufacturer-approved maintenance steps, and a parking space that fits your storage timeline. Check the tires and fluids, review battery and fuel guidance, and choose an outdoor, covered, or enclosed vehicle space based on local winter conditions.
Find a Public Storage location near you to compare available vehicle storage options for eligible cars. Confirm vehicle requirements, space dimensions, and access hours before reserving.
A clear winter-storage plan can make spring driving easier to prepare for.
Winter Car Storage FAQs
How do you winterize a car for storage?
Clean and dry the vehicle, remove food and personal items, check tire pressure and fluids, review fuel and battery guidance in the owner’s manual, and choose a suitable vehicle-storage space.
Should you fill the gas tank before winter car storage?
Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s fuel-storage guidance. Some vehicles may require a full tank or a manufacturer-approved fuel-preparation process.
Should you disconnect a car battery for winter storage?
Follow the owner’s manual before disconnecting the battery. Battery disconnection can affect vehicle settings and electronic systems.
Should you cover a car during winter storage?
Use a fitted cover on a clean, dry vehicle when it fits the storage setting. Avoid rough tarps and plastic coverings that can hold moisture.
Can you store a car at Public Storage during winter?
Yes. Eligible cars can be stored at select Public Storage locations in outdoor, covered, or enclosed vehicle spaces. Vehicles must be operable, registered, and insured.
