Tank full, fuel stabilizer optional (but if stored longer, required. But need to drive a bit make sure stabilizer reaches injectors)

Full tank prevents rust inside tank

Top up, unlatched. Windows slightly down, not contacting seals.

Freshly washed, place cover. Never put cover on dirty car, only makes things worse.

Proper battery tender type device. Make certain its type that monitors battery and won't overcharge.

Parking brake off. Chock wheels. Pads can rust themselves in place during storage. That is gonna happen no matter what, it'll just be way worse w brake. Spring, expect resistance to move, then a mighty crack as pads break free. A few miles this will all wipe off and no issues.

Mouse protection. Sock in exhaust, mothballs in airbox and around engine bay.

Consider moisture absorbing bags. Place in an open plastic tray.

DO NOT START ENGINE DURING STORAGE

Storing for a few months, no need to worry about stuff like flat spotting tires. A few miles they'll thumb, but with road heat they'll find their shape. So no need to jack it up, etc.

 

Full tank prevents condensation in taknk, not rust in a plastic gas tank

 

Our tanks are metal. But its a good point. Even vehicles w plastic tank, still good idea to store full tank.

 

Thanks for all the comments and recommendations! Much appreciated!

 

If I had to start it in winter I would run Amsoil 0w30 motor oil. I have been amazed how well my daily driven vehicles start up in dead cold winter termps on 0w oils, as cold as -20 degs C my cars fire up so smoothly and quiet. Cold oil flow is important.

 

Always 70° F in the garage all winter, so 10w30 should be fine. I had block heaters on timers on my Hondas years ago. They started like it was midsummer, with heat coming from the vents in less than a minute.

 

That is pretty good, warmer than my in-home temperature setting.

 

I spend pretty near the same amount of time in the garage as I do in the house. My wife seems fine with that...

 

Project Farm just completed an excellent and thorough test of fuel stabilizers with Stabil coming out on top by a sizeable margin, even with EtOH fuel.

My car is stored with full tank of fuel, Stabil on board and driven till it's fully heated and warmed- trans, diff, brakes and all. I want to be sure the brake rotors are free of any moisture so they don't rust to any degree over winter in the dry garage. I cover the wheels with cardboard covers (keeps my car cover clean from the tire dressing) under a car cover. I don't start my car until spring so it sits for 5-6 months.
YMMV.
darcy

 

Good plan on keeping your car cover from getting grungy from the tires.