19. Jaguar Car Storage during Winter
Winter's coming on, so many Jaguar owners are preparing to put their shiny pets away until spring arrives once again. How do you prepare your car for several months of just sitting? Like this:
- 1. Engine Protection. Change the engine oil and filter, and make sure the crankcase is topped up with oil. Add enough antifreeze to provide protection up to 50 degrees below zero, even if you live in the South. Antifreeze contains corrosion inhibitors that prevent the water from attacking your aluminum block and cylinder heads. You should drive your vehicle about 15 miles to heat the engine, which will circulate the oil and antifreeze through the system.
- 2. Fill 'Er Up. Fill the gas tank and add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gasoline from oxidizing. A full tank prevents atmospheric water from condensing into the fuel tank.
- 3. Rust Never Sleeps. By topping off the liquids like windshield washer fluid and brake fluid, you can prevent condensation from forming and rusting the internal chambers of your vehicle.
- 4. Wax Job. Wash and wax your car to eliminate dirt and residue stains and to prevent corrosion. Hit underneath the car well, to clear out any mud and gunk that will hold water.
- 5. Insider Info. If possible, select a dry, indoor storage facility for your vehicle. Sun, rain, snow, and bird droppings can damage your car's finish and promote rust. Severe weather, such as hail and high winds, can blow debris onto your car and cause body damage.
- 6. Cover Up. If you plan to store your car outside, use a strong, quality tarp to cover the entire vehicle. Bear in mind that the "sheepskin-style" covers should never be used outdoors, as the furry insides will hold dirt that will rub against the paint when the wind blows. "Evolution 4" is a good material for an outdoor cover. Strap it down well so it won't shift in the wind.
- 7. Keep Weight Off. Use four jack stands to lift the vehicle completely off the ground. This relieves the weight of the vehicle, keeping the tires from developing flat spots. Position the jack stands under the axles to avoid damaging your vehicle's suspension. If you can't get the vehicle on jack stands, then inflate the tires to 60 PSI. DON'T DRIVE THE CAR WITH THE TIRES INFLATED TO THIS PRESSURE. The tires can burst if you do, so release the pressure before you drive the car again.
- 8. Disconnect the battery. You can detach the negative cable from the battery or remove the battery from the vehicle. Don't store your battery directly on concrete or metal. Instead, place it on wood to maintain its ability to hold a charge.
- 9. Cover Up inside also. Even inside, buy yourself peace of mind by covering your car with a tarp to prevent dust and moisture from damaging the car's finish and metal. This will also keep birds and mice from using your backseat as a winter home. Covers for indoor use only, resembling giant, airtight garment storage bags, are available to completely encase your vehicle. Mice love to create nests inside the valley of the V12 engine, and they eat the plastic covering on the wires causing expensive damage. The more "mouse-proof" your car, the better.
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