Storing your Beetle

Here are a few tips for storing your Beetle for the winter, or any other time.

There are many different things that need to be done before you take the key out of the ignition for the last time this year. It can range from just removing the battery cables and topping up the tank to an up on blocks, drain the fuel system project. Whatever you decide it will help to keep your ride? in tiptop shape ready for the first signs of spring.

-Find an enclosed area to store the vehicle. The best location of course would be a heated, dust and humidity free location. But your home garage will do fine if you're not lucky enough to own a warehouse.

-Give your vehicle a complete hand wash and wax. Some enthusiasts recommend a second coat of wax left without buffing. I just hope you have strong arms for removing it come springtime. Clean the interior and dress with a vinyl/rubber cleaner/treatment that protects against cracking.

-When parking the vehicle it is recommended to place a vapour barrier between it and the floor. A sheet of heavy plastic or some plywood will do the trick. This helps to keep moisture away from the undercarriage.

Have the oil changed. This will give your engine maximum protection against rust and corrosion. Change it again in the spring before driving. Also make sure that your windshield washer is good to at least „40c depending on where you live. (Don't worry about the antifreeze, you don't have any!)

-Fill the fuel tank to the top. This will help stop moisture from forming in the tank. Next, add a fuel stabiliser to help prevent the fuel from breaking down over the winter. (Fuel stores about as well as raw milk) Make sure to run the car (with the garage door open) to get the mixture into the carburettor or fuel injection system. Release the parking brake. If your vehicle is stored on the ground put a block in front and behind a wheel and leave the car in gear or in park. Make sure the brake fluid is topped up. Pump the brakes at least once a month to keep things free and moving.

You may also want to take out the spark plugs and spray an oil mist in each cylinder. Crank the engine once with the spark plugs out to coat each cylinder with oil. Reinstall the spark plugs and your engine is all set. There is also a product on the market which screws into the spark plug hole and has a moisture-absorbing chemical in it.

-It is also a good idea to put something to absorb moisture inside your vehicle and trunk. You can purchase a decent? in a bag at your hardware store. This product will absorb moisture and help prevent condensation and rust. You could also put cedar shingles inside your vehicle. These absorb moisture and help to keep insects out. Cover your muffler tip(s) with a plastic bag held on with an elastic band. This will help to keep moisture from entering your exhaust system.

-Cover your vehicle with a soft cotton or comparable material car cover. Make sure it is breathable to allow circulation of air. Your local performance store will have several types of universal or custom fitted covers available to choose from.

-Some people like to lift the vehicle off the ground to take the stress of the suspension. If you do be sure to support the vehicle on stands put them under the axles and suspension so the proper loading is maintained on the suspension components.

-Older bias ply tires are prone to getting flat spots where as this doesn't happen with properly maintained radial tires. Make sure the tires are fully inflated to the maximum recommended pressure.

-Remove the battery and store indoors. When you have it inside clean the battery and store it on a piece of wood to prevent current loss. You must charge the battery monthly so the battery does not go flat or sulphate. You can purchase a battery minder that automatically charges the battery when needed.

Lastly make sure your storage area is free from vermin. That is, mice, rats, birds, squirrels, raccoons or any other animal that would like to make your vehicle its winter home. There are electronic rodent repellents on the market but its just as easy to make sure there are no holes or spaces where they can get into your vehicles winter bedroom.

Some might think these measures are a bit extreme and you can pick and choose which ones are suited for your vehicle. The last few years I've stored my Super Beetle by simply waxing it, filling the fuel tank and adding some fuel stabiliser and driving it once a month on a clear winters day. Thus charging up the battery and freeing up anything that might be starting to seize. But this year I'm giving it the royal treatment.

Doesn't your Beetle deserve the best too?