Michigan winters are no joke. Between freezing temperatures, road salt, and unpredictable weather, your vehicle takes a beating if it’s not adequately prepared. Whether you’re storing a classic car, a summer-only ride, or simply parking your vehicle for a few months, knowing how to store it off-season can make all the difference in protecting your investment.

At Tillema Auto, we’ve helped countless drivers in Byron Center prepare their vehicles for winter. If you’re planning to store your car during Michigan’s off-season months, here’s what you need to know and how we can help.

Storing Your Vehicle During Michigan’s Off-Season Months

Winter Can Be Tough on Idle Vehicles

When a vehicle sits unused for weeks or months, it’s vulnerable to a range of issues:

• Battery drain
• Tire flat spots
• Fluid breakdown
• Rust and corrosion
• Rodent damage
• Paint deterioration

Without proper preparation, you may face costly repairs come spring. But with a bit of planning (and the right support), you can keep your vehicle safe, clean, and ready to roll when the snow melts.

We know Michigan winters. Our team at Tillema Auto has decades of experience helping drivers protect their vehicles from the elements. Whether you need a pre-storage inspection, fluid service, or battery maintenance, we’ll make sure your car is in top shape before it goes into hibernation.

Steps to Store Your Vehicle Safely

Here’s a simple checklist to follow when preparing your vehicle for off-season storage:

1. Clean Inside and Out  
   A clean car is less likely to attract rodents or develop mold. To start, give your vehicle a thorough wash and wax to remove dirt, salt, and grime. Clean the interior to prevent odors and discourage pests.
2. Change the Oil and Top Off Fluids  
   Did you know that old oil can damage your engine over time? Before you store your vehicle for the off-season, be sure to top it off with fresh oil and other fluids (coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid) to help preserve internal components during storage.
3. Maintain the Battery  
   Batteries tend to drain when a car sits idle. One way to save it is by disconnecting the battery during the off-season. If you’re unsure how you want to maintain the battery, we can help you choose the best option for your setup.
4. Inflate Tires to Proper Pressure  
   Consider placing the vehicle on jack stands if it’ll be stored long-term because tires can develop flat spots when left stationary. Before you store your vehicle for winter, inflate each tire to the recommended pressure.
5. Use a Fuel Stabilizer  
   A good rule of thumb to help prevent the gas from breaking down is to add a fuel stabilizer. Since winters here in Michigan can last for months, this is a smart step to avoid damaging the fuel system during the off-season.
6. Protect Against Rodents  
   Rodents love warm engine bays. Seal off entry points, remove food or trash from the interior, and consider placing mothballs or rodent deterrents around the vehicle.
7. Cover It Up  
   To protect your paint job and the interior from dust, moisture, and UV damage, consider covering your vehicle. Avoid plastic tarps, which can trap moisture and cause rust, and instead choose a breathable fabric.
8. Schedule a Pre-Storage Service  
   Before you tuck your car away, bring it to Tillema Auto for a quick inspection. We’ll check fluid levels, battery health, tire pressure, and more—so you can store your vehicle with confidence.

Schedule Your Winter Prep Today

When you take the time to properly store your vehicle, you’re protecting its performance, appearance, and resale value. Come spring, you’ll be able to start it up without worrying about dead batteries, engine damage, or costly surprises.

At Tillema Auto, we treat every vehicle like it’s our own. Whether you’re storing a weekend cruiser or your daily driver, we’ll help you prep it for the off-season and make sure it’s ready to go when the weather warms up.

It’s as easy as 1… 2… 3….

Step 1: Schedule an appointment with Tillema Auto today.

Step 2: We’ll make sure your car is winter-ready from bumper to bumper.

Step 3: Tuck your prized vehicle in for winter, knowing it’ll be ready to rev up come springtime.