Bringing your classic out of winter storage

If like many Classic owners you decided to put your car into hibernation this winter, now is the time to start thinking about bringing out of winter storage.  Storing your car over the winter can lead to problems when you come to move it again in the spring, and if you followed our guide for laying up a car over winter, many of them will have been avoided. However, further steps need to be taken to ensure that your car will start, and continue to run without problems for the coming year.

1. Oil can build condensation over the winter months. Before starting the car, change the oil.
   
2. Check all fluids before driving, including the coolant and oil levels in both the gearbox and in the differential.
   
3. Check the tyre pressure. Your owner's manual will indicate the ideal pressure for your tyres.
   
4. Check the battery and reconnect.
   
5. Now is the best time (as the car should already be up on stands) to grease your nipples and oil your trunnions.
   
6. Bleed the brakes and check that all the wheel cylinders are working correctly.
   
7. Once everything is greased, oiled, drained and refilled you should run the car until warm, and then check for any leaks.
   
8. Wash and apply a good layer of wax and your all set to go
   

Please note: these tips are applicable to short term storage only