Owning a classic car is a joy and a privilege, but it also comes with a unique set of responsibilities — particularly when it comes to storage. Proper storage ensures your vehicle remains in top condition, ready to hit the road or shine at the next car show. This guide covers the essentials for securely storing and maintaining your classic car, from summer through to winter.

Choose the Right Storage Location

Selecting the best storage location is the cornerstone of protecting your classic car. A well-chosen spot will shield your vehicle from the elements and keep it in pristine condition.

Here are some key considerations to ensure your classic car is stored safely:

Indoor Storage: Ideally, store your car indoors in a clean, dry, climate-controlled environment. This protects it from harsh weather, temperature fluctuations, and humidity.

• Example: Many owners opt for climate-controlled storage units, such as those offered by specialist facilities.

Garage Setup: If storing in your own garage, ensure it is well-ventilated and pest-free. Consider using a dehumidifier if dampness is an issue.

• Tip: Adding insulation to your garage can help maintain a more consistent temperature.

Professional Car Storage Facilities: If you don’t have access to a suitable garage, consider a professional storage provider with climate control and security.

Some high-end facilities – such as our friends at Trustpark in London, Henry’s Car Barn’s various locations, or storage offered by some of our dealer partners like Duke of London, Classicwise and Hilton & Moss – offer additional services such as regular maintenance checks and battery charging.

Preparation Before Storage

Before you tuck your car away, it’s crucial to prepare it properly.

This ensures your classic remains in excellent condition and is ready to hit the road when the time comes. Here’s a step-by-step guide to consider:

Clean Thoroughly: Wash and wax your car to remove dirt, grime, salt, and any other elements it may have picked up from the road. Clean the undercarriage as well (as best you can!). A clean car is less likely to suffer from rust and corrosion.

• Detailing Tip: Use high-quality wax to create a protective barrier against moisture.

Interior Care: Vacuum, clean upholstery, and treat leather. Remove anything that could attract pests or cause mould.

• Pro Tip: Use a leather conditioner to keep the seats supple and prevent cracking when not in use.

Fluid Check: Change the oil, top up coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid. Consider adding a fuel stabiliser to the tank to prevent the fuel from degrading.

• Additional Advice: Run the engine briefly after adding a fuel stabiliser to ensure it circulates through the system.

Protective Measures

Taking extra precautions can prevent damage during storage. Here are some protective measures to keep your car safe and sound:

Cover Your Car: Use a high-quality, breathable car cover that fits your vehicle snugly. Ensure your car is dry before covering, and avoid plastic covers as they can trap moisture and cause rust.

• Recommendation: Look for covers made from materials like cotton or flannel that allow air circulation.

Battery Maintenance: Disconnect the battery to prevent it from draining. Alternatively, use a battery maintainer or trickle charger to keep it charged.

• Safety Tip: Remove the battery entirely if you are planning on storing it for more than a few months.

Tyre Care: Inflate your tyres to the maximum recommended pressure and move once monthly to avoid flat spots.

• Insight: If you are storing for an extended period, consider placing the car on jack stands to relieve pressure on the tires and suspension.

Climate Control

Maintaining the right temperature and humidity levels is crucial to preventing damage to your classic car. Here’s how to control the climate around your stored vehicle:

Climate-Controlled Environment: If possible, store your car in a climate-controlled environment. Many museums and high-end collectors use climate-controlled environments or carcoon bubbles to preserve their vehicles.

Dehumidifiers and Moisture Absorbers: Use dehumidifiers or silica gel packs inside the car and boot to prevent mould.

• Usage Tip: Place silica gel packs in the interior and trunk to absorb any excess moisture.

Security Measures

Your classic car is more than just a vehicle; it's a valuable asset and a piece of history that deserves the best protection. Ensuring its security while in storage is paramount to prevent theft and damage. Here are some security measures to keep your classic car safe:

Secure Locks: Ensure all doors, windows, and the garage itself have robust locks. Consider installing a security system.

• Tech Tip: Some modern security systems can alert you via smartphone if any unusual activity is detected.

Surveillance: Use security cameras to monitor your storage area. Motion sensor lights can also deter potential thieves.

• Advice: Install cameras at multiple angles to cover all entry points for extra piece of mind.

Insurance: Maintain comprehensive insurance coverage that includes protection whilst in storage.

• Reminder: Regularly update your insurance policy to reflect any changes in your car’s value or storage conditions. Adding your policy to the Custodian platform allows you to monitor when your renewal is up more easily, whilst you can set reminders for check-ins too.
• ‍Or even better, you can take out Custodian Insurance, which also offers great benefits and storage options.

Periodic Checks and Maintenance

Even in storage, your car needs occasional attention:

Regular Inspections: Visit your car periodically to check for any signs of moisture, pests, or other issues. Start the engine occasionally to keep the mechanical parts lubricated.

• Schedule: Aim for monthly inspections and start the engine every two months.

Rotate Tyres: If not using jack stands, move the car slightly to change the position of the tyres and prevent flat spots.

• Technique: Push the car a few feet forward or backwards to shift the tyre position.

Ventilation: Open the car doors and windows occasionally to allow air circulation and prevent mould growth. Use moisture absorbers inside the car to keep the interior dry.

• Additional Tip: Set a reminder on the Custodian platform to check on your car.

Seasonal Considerations

Adapt your storage practices to the season:

Summer Storage: In hot weather, ensure proper ventilation and avoid direct sunlight to prevent UV damage. Keep the interior cool to protect upholstery.

• Pro Tip: Use window shades to block UV rays and keep the interior temperature down.

Winter Storage: In cold climates, check antifreeze levels and ensure the car cover is securely in place. Prevent rodents from nesting by sealing entry points and using repellents.

• Pro Tip: Lubricate door hinges, locks, and other moving parts to prevent them from seizing up, and be careful engaging the parking brake, as it may also stick during storage.

Impact of Good Storage on Car Insurance Premiums

Properly storing your classic car can also have a positive impact on your insurance premiums:

Reduced Risk: By storing your car in a secure, climate-controlled environment, you reduce the risk of damage from weather, pests, and theft. Insurance companies often offer lower premiums or laid-up cover for vehicles stored in such conditions.

• Example: Insurers may offer discounts for vehicles stored in facilities with 24/7 security.

Condition Preservation: Well-maintained and stored cars are less likely to develop issues, which can protect your wallet and value of the vehicle over time.

• Tip: Provide documentation of your storage conditions to your insurer to qualify for potential discounts.

Documentation: Keeping a detailed log of your storage practices and maintenance can demonstrate to insurers that you take excellent care of your vehicle, potentially qualifying you for better rates.

• Advice: Keep receipts and records of all maintenance and storage-related expenses, and better still, add them to the Custodian platform to track everything digitally and keep the records at your fingertips.

Getting Your Classic Car Out of Storage: 9 Steps to go from Winter to Summer

As the weather warms up, it's time to get your classic car out of storage and ready for those sunny drives and days out at car shows or with friends (when the weather allows it!).

Transitioning your vehicle from winter storage to summer use requires careful preparation to ensure it runs smoothly and remains in pristine condition.

Follow these 9 steps to safely get your classic car ready for the road:

1. Thorough Inspection

Before starting your car, perform a comprehensive inspection:

Exterior Check: Look for any signs of damage, rust, or pests that may have occurred during storage. Pay special attention to the tyres for flat spots or cracks.

• Tip: If you used a car cover, remove it carefully to avoid scratching the paint. Avoid putting it on the ground where it could pick up stones or debris.

Interior Check: Inspect the interior for any signs of mould, mildew, or pests. Ensure that all upholstery, carpets, and seats are clean and dry.
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2. Fluid Levels and Condition

Check all fluid levels and their condition to ensure they are ready for use:

Engine Oil: Check the oil level and its condition. If it looks dirty or contaminated, change the oil and filter.

• Advice: Even if the oil looks clean, consider an oil change if the car has been stored for an extended period.

Coolant: Ensure the coolant level is adequate and that it provides the necessary protection for warmer temperatures.

Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid level and top it up if necessary. Inspect for any signs of leaks.

Transmission Fluid: Verify the transmission fluid level and condition. Change it if it appears dirty or if it has been a long time since the last change.
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3. Battery Check

A stored battery may have lost its charge over time:

Reconnection: Reconnect the battery if it was disconnected during storage. Ensure the terminals are clean and free of corrosion.‍

‍Charging: If the battery is low, use a trickle charger to bring it back to a full charge. If the battery is old or won't hold a charge, consider replacing it.
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4. Tyre Maintenance

Ensure your tires are in good condition and properly inflated:

Inflation: Check and adjust the tyre pressure to the recommended levels. Remember to check the spare as well.

Inspection: Inspect the tyres for any signs of damage, such as cracks, bulges, or excessive wear. Rotate or change if necessary.
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5. Fuel System

Prepare the fuel system for operation:

Fuel Stabiliser: If you added a fuel stabiliser before storage, your fuel should be in good condition. However, consider adding fresh fuel to mix with the old.

Fuel Lines: Inspect fuel lines and connections for any signs of cracks, leaks or damage. Ensure the fuel filter is clean.
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6. Brake System

Ensure the brakes are functioning properly:

Brake Test: Before driving, gently press the brake pedal to ensure it feels firm. If it feels spongy, there may be air in the lines, requiring bleeding.

Inspection: Check the brake pads, rotors, and callipers for any signs of wear or damage.
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7. Engine Start-Up

When starting the engine for the first time after storage:

Initial Start: Turn the ignition to the accessory position and let it sit for a few seconds to allow the fuel pump to prime the system.

Idle Time: Once started, let the engine idle for a few minutes to reach operating temperature. Listen for any unusual noises that might indicate a problem, and continue to let the engine run for a few minutes before driving.
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8. Final Checks and Test Drive

Before hitting the road, conduct some final checks:

Lights and Electronics: Ensure all lights, indicators, and electronic systems are functioning correctly.

Windshield Wipers: Check the condition of the wipers and replace them if necessary.

Test Drive: Take a short test drive to ensure the car handles well, the brakes work effectively, and there are no abnormal noises.
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9. Documentation and Insurance for UK Road Users

Insurance

Verify that your insurance coverage is active and adequate for your driving plans. In the UK, it is a legal requirement to have at least third-party insurance to drive on public roads. Consider comprehensive specialist insurance for better protection, especially for classic cars, which can be more expensive to repair or replace.

• Action: Contact your insurance provider, us if you are a Custodian Insurance policyholder, to confirm your policy details. If necessary, update your coverage to reflect any changes in your car's value or usage.

MOT (Ministry of Transport) Test‍

Ensure your vehicle has a valid MOT certificate if it is required. This annual test checks that your vehicle meets road safety and environmental standards.

• Action: Book an MOT test at an approved test centre. If your vehicle is exempt due to its age (over 40 years old), you must still declare it as MOT exempt each year.

Vehicle Tax (Road Tax)‍

Make sure your road tax is paid and up to date. Even if your classic car is exempt from vehicle tax due to its age, you must still tax it annually.

• Action: Renew your vehicle tax online through the DVLA (Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency) website or at a Post Office that deals with vehicle tax. Check out more insights on Road Tax requirements here.

Registration

Ensure your vehicle registration details are current. This includes any changes to your address or modifications to your vehicle that need to be recorded with the DVLA.

• Action: Update your registration details through the DVLA if necessary. This can often be done online or by post.

Insurance Documentation

Keep a copy of your insurance policy and MOT certificate in your vehicle or easily accessible. This can be helpful if you are stopped by the police or need to provide proof of insurance.

• ‍Action: Store digital copies of your insurance and MOT documents on your smartphone (better still, on the Custodian platform, where you can access them quickly in case of emergency or police stops)

By ensuring all your documentation and insurance are in order, you can enjoy peace of mind and focus on enjoying your car when the time comes.

Ensuring a Smooth Transition from Winter Storage to Summer Use for Your Classic Car

Transitioning your classic car from winter storage to summer use requires careful attention to detail. By following these steps, you can ensure your vehicle is ready for the road, looking great, and performing at its best. Regular maintenance and thorough checks will keep your classic car in top condition for years to come.

You can use the Custodian platform to set reminders to prepare your vehicle for storage and make sure your documents are up to date. Taking the right precautions with your storage can help you maintain the value of your vehicle and even save money on your insurance, as it demonstrates the care you take of your car to underwriters. 

If you’re interested in learning more about Custodian, check out our website here.

If you have any other tips, tricks or feedback, we would love to hear from you - please email us at hello@custodian.club to reach the team directly.