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How to Prep a Classic Car for Storage in Fort Wayne’s Winter Months

Harsh Midwest winters can do a number on vintage sheet metal, chrome trim, and rebuilt engines. If you own a classic car in Fort Wayne, protecting your investment through freezing temperatures and road salt is non-negotiable. At Store Here – Fort Wayne, we maintain indoor vehicle units with optional power—the ideal solution for winter car storage in Fort Wayne. Below are the steps we walk collectors through every fall so their rides fire up on the first crank come spring.

1. Give the Car a Thorough Wash and Dry

Dirt traps moisture; moisture breeds rust. Before rolling into storage:

• Wash the exterior with pH-balanced soap.
• Dry completely—including around trim and in wheel wells.
• Apply a high-quality carnauba or ceramic wax for an extra barrier.

Classic car storage tip: If you live near New Haven or other gravel-road neighborhoods, knock lingering dust off first so you don’t seal in grit.

2. Change Fluids and Top Off the Tank

• Oil: Fresh oil reduces corrosive acids inside the block.
• Coolant: Ensure it’s at the correct antifreeze mix for Indiana sub-zero nights.
• Fuel: Fill the tank and add stabilizer to prevent varnish build-up.

After filling, run the engine for five minutes to circulate treated fuel through lines and carburetor.

3. Protect Your Battery

Batteries hate cold. In our powered indoor units, owners keep a smart trickle charger connected all winter. No power in your garage? Rent a 10×20 with electrical access and avoid the March battery-replacement rush.

Curious about other powered vehicle solutions? See how our powered RV bays work—the same outlets keep classic cars ready to roll.

4. Combat Flat Spots and Suspension Sag

• Inflate tires to the upper PSI limit.
• Place the car on jack stands if storage exceeds four months.
• Position stands under suspension pick-up points—not under the floor pan.

Flat spots on rare white-wall radials are expensive. A little prep now beats hunting for hard-to-find replacements later.

5. Seal the Cabin and Exhaust Against Critters

• Close all vents and windows.
• Stuff steel wool in exhaust tips (remove before startup).
• Avoid dryer sheets—mice adapt. Use peppermint-oil pouches designed for automotive storage.

6. Choose the Right Indoor Storage Environment

What makes Store Here different for indoor car storage near you?

• Fully enclosed, drive-up vehicle units—no tight corridors.
• Optional 110-volt outlets for chargers and battery tenders.
• 24/7 gate access (with approval)—check on your ride anytime the forecast looks sketchy.
• Ground-level entry and wide lanes built for trailers and low-clearance cars.
• Regular pest control and a manager (Deena) who knows every tenant by name.

Not storing just yet? Bookmark our Fort Wayne moving checklist—new homeowners often use the same car unit for patio furniture while renovations wrap up.

7. Cover—But Let It Breathe

Skip plastic tarps that trap moisture. Choose a breathable cotton or flannel cover sized to your make and model. In our climate-controlled limited-availability units, soft covers are all you need; in standard units, add a moisture-absorbing desiccant pack inside the cabin.

8. Insurance and Documentation

• Notify your carrier the vehicle is in secure indoor storage for possible rate adjustments.
• Photograph the odometer, engine bay, and body panels before locking up.
• Keep a printed copy of your coverage in a glove box folder.

Need a Spot This Winter?

Indoor vehicle storage fills fast once the first frost advisory hits Allen County. Reserve early to lock in powered space and our 2-months-free promotion for qualifying rentals. Call Deena or reserve online today—then relax knowing your classic stays dry, charged, and ready for that first sunny cruise.

Store Here – Fort Wayne
2701 Coliseum Blvd Fort Wayne, IN 46803
Phone: 260-577-7353