Bringing Your Summer Vehicles Out Of Storage

As winter draws to a close, it’s time to start thinking about bringing your vehicles out of storage. Whether it’s a car, truck, boat, or motorcycle, proper preparation is key to ensuring it’s ready to hit the road or water again. As your trusted insurance company, we want to remind our clients of a few important things to keep in mind when bringing vehicles out of storage.

Here is our spring checklist to bring your vehicle out of storage:

1. Check the battery: Batteries have a tendency to lose charge over time, especially if they haven’t been used in a while. Before starting your vehicle, make sure the battery is fully charged and there is no corrosion on the terminals.
2. Inspect the tires: Tires can lose pressure while not in regular use, which can lead to flat spots. Before driving, check the tire pressure and make sure there are no visible signs of damage or wear.
3. Change the oil: If you didn’t change the oil before storing your vehicle, now is the time to do so. Old oil can become thick and sludgy over time, which can result in engine damage.
4. Check the fluids: Along with changing the oil, make sure to check all the other fluids as well. This includes coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid.
5. Test the brakes: Before hitting the road, make sure your brakes are working properly. Pump the brakes a few times to build up pressure and check for any signs of sticking or grinding.
6. Inspect for physical signs of damage: Check the exterior of your vehicle for any signs of damage or wear, such as dents, scratches, or rust. This is also a good time to inspect the interior for any signs of rodents or other pests.
7. Renew your insurance: Before driving on the open road, make sure your insurance is up to date. Your vehicle must be insured before use. In Ontario, your driver’s licence can be suspended and your vehicle impounded if you are caught driving without valid auto insurance. At Merit Insurance, we can help you find the right coverage for your classic car or recreational vehicle to make sure you’re protected in case of an accident.

By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your vehicle is ready to go when you are. Remember, proper preparation is key to ensuring your vehicle stays in good condition and is safe to drive. Once you’ve done a thorough inspection and made any necessary repairs, it’s time to take your vehicle out for a test drive. Start with a short route around your neighbourhood to make sure everything is working properly, and then gradually increase your distance and speed as you become more comfortable with the performance of the vehicle.

At Merit Insurance, we’re committed to helping our clients protect their vehicles and stay safe on the road. If you have any questions or need help finding the right insurance coverage, don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’re here to help!