When storing for winter -- Start it up or let it sit?

[JGT]

When storing for 4-5 months, is it better to fire it up every 2 weeks and let it idle un-driven for 10-15 minutes, or just let it sit?

 

[twobjshelbys]

Best if you can actually drive it even if it is for just a few miles up to operating temp. That helps circulate trans fluid and helps prevent flat spots on tires.

Second choice is to run up to operating temp even if it is still.

I did both in Colorado winters...

Last choice is to let it sit all that time but...

In all three cases keep it on a battery tender.

 

[AJB]

I have had good luck with all my cars, trucks
and tractors in Michigan and Pennsylvania for years….
Just let them sit.

-put vehicles in “Insurance storage mode”
-full gas tank
-add Stabil to fuel
-clean /wax
-tires fully inflated plus 5 psi
-battery tender on each vehicle
(Check occasionally to be sure tender is “on” and not on a switchable outlet.
-I leave uncovered so I can “pet them “
Occasionally!
Andy (ajb)

 

[drilling]

I heard that letting it sit is the best. Running it briefly can only cause condensation and rust

 

[twobjshelbys]

I heard that letting it sit is the best. Running it briefly can only cause condensation and rust

The key to running it is to fully warm it up. That's why a short drive even in winter is best. Just be careful of the tires.

 

[Specracer]

I personally think LET SIT, and Ive been doing this for 20+ years. Some of our cars will sit for longer than 4-5 months.... Key detail is battery maintenance. Either leave on a tender, or disconnect (at the risk of emission "readiness" when an state inspection is needed).

 

[PeteK]

IMO: Either start it and let it warm up to full temp for a good time (an hour or more) to evaporate condensation, or let it sit with battery tender. If at all possible, drive it for an hour or so. Starts for short periods are the worst.

 

[mmlcobra]

Frictional loss, condensation, and battery maintenance supports the let it sit concept.
That's what I do.
Best,
Mark

 

[roketman]

Clearly, based on all the opinions here either way, apparently looks to be just fine. Although I’m with. AJB 100%!

 

[Steve Schneider]

Hi hope all are well

Went to store car for winter and the black cover inside the air vent at very front of car fell inside facia, see picture, how do I put this back, take splitter off?

thank you
Steve

 

[twobjshelbys]

Hi hope all are well

Went to store car for winter and the black cover inside the air vent at very front of car fell inside facia, see picture, how do I put this back, take splitter off?

thank you
Steve

yep