Dusting Off Your Seasonal Vehicle: How to Get Your Car Ready For Summer
With the chills of winter behind us and the long weekend around the corner, many drivers are taking their summer rides out of storage. Whether it’s your classic car, motorcycle, RV, or any other vehicle that wasn’t exposed to the winter elements, there are a few things you must do when you take your seasonal vehicle out of storage.
Check Your Insurance Coverage
Most Canadians modify their insurance while their vehicle is being stored during the winter months, as there is no need for the standard road, accident or liability insurance. However, comprehensive insurance to protect your summer vehicle from theft, vandalism, or other variations of damage is still encouraged while not in use.
* Tip: Never let your car insurance policy lapse. Many insurers will consider you high-risk if you allow an insurance policy lapse. This makes it much more difficult to find competitive rates in the future.
When you are considering putting your summer vehicle back on the road, we advise our clients to notify their Merit broker 2-3 weeks in advance. This allows us time to resume proper ‘on the road’ coverage and to report the change to the Insurance Bureau of Canada. This also allows drivers ample time to renew license plate stickers if necessary.
* Tip: When you own a seasonal vehicle that is high in value, it is recommended that you have it appraised each time you take it out of storage to ensure you have the full value of coverage for the vehicle.
Depending on the type of recreational vehicle, you should consider specialty coverage. We can offer custom policies for:
We offer the boat insurance protection you need to enjoy every minute on the water. Whether it’s hoisting the sail, weekend watersports, or luxury cruising, boat insurance helps protect a boat or other watercraft from certain risks both on and off the water.
ATVs are not considered on-road driving vehicles, but they still require insurance. Unless you are using your own private property, you will need insurance to drive on public property or access to public roadways.
Trailer Insurance is essential due to the popularity of trailers and recreational vehicles in all four seasons in Ontario. Whether it’s short weekend trips, cross country adventures, or your full-time residence on wheels, RV users need protection at every stop on the road. RV insurance can help protect against accidents, fires, theft, and other unexpected events.
We have partnered with a market leader in Classic Cars insurance, Hagerty, to protect your pride and joy. This specialized classic car insurance from Hagerty Insurance is crafted for car enthusiasts just like you. Get a Quote
Just like standard auto insurance, all motorcycle owners need insurance coverage to drive on an Ontario road. You can insure your motorcycle on a stand-alone policy or as an addition to your existing automobile insurance.
Before you start your engine, here are our top 5 tips to make sure your car is ready to hit the road.
- Inspect Battery: If you did not have a battery maintainer during the storage period, do not attempt to start your vehicle with a half-drained battery. You can check your battery levels with a multimeter to be safe.
- Test Engine Oil: Pull the dipstick to see if there is adequate oil in the engine and add if needed. Even if there is existing oil, it is recommended to get an oil change at your earliest convenience as the oil is now old.
- Monitor Other Fluids: Check the fluid levels for coolant, power steering, brakes, and fuel.
- Perform A Visual Check: Visually inspect your car for signs of fluid leaks, loose wiring, or even if mice have chewed through any of the interior.
- Check Tires: Check tire pressure and correct as necessary to bring to the suggested PSI rating indicated on the sidewall. Look for cracks and bulges in the rubber.
If you are planning on taking your summer vehicle or toys out of storage, contact your Merit Broker to discuss your current policy, specialty coverage, or reinstating a more comprehensive policy. These types of vehicles are fun to own, but accidents can happen, and we can protect your and your off-road vehicles with the proper insurance. Click here to get a recreational vehicle Insurance quote or contact Merit Insurance Brokers to learn more.
