If you own a classic car, a sports car or other summer fun car and you live north of the Mason-Dixon line, you probably put your car in storage for the winter. Here are some tips from various sources for properly storing your car to ensure a good, long life and no surprises when you pull it out in the spring:

• Put it away clean, inside and out.

• Give it a fresh oil change.

• Pour a gasoline conditioner in the tank according to the manufacturer’s recommendations and drive the car around long enough to circulate it through the fuel system.

• Over-inflate the tires to prevent flat spots or change them out with a set of junk yard tires. A set of “donut” spares works well. (Storing on jack stands can stress suspension parts.)

• Plug the tail pipe and air intake with steel wool or rags to prevent invasion by critters.

• Remove the battery and store it in a safe place with a “smart” charger on it. Do NOT store the battery on a concrete floor.

• Place some kind of critter repellent in containers in and around the car. Moth balls work but will leave an unpleasant odor that may never go away. Other suggestions include dryer softener sheets or strongly scented soaps shaved or cut up into small pieces.

• Once stored, do NOT start the car periodically. Unless you plan on driving it enough to completely warm it up, you will introduce moisture into the engine and exhaust system that shorten the life of components.

• Print the list of steps you took and leave it on the driver’s seat to remind yourself to undo them in the spring.

• Cover the car with a BREATHABLE car cover, blankets or sheets.

-M.D.