In Quebec, late October means one thing: it’s time to put the motorcycle away, pull the boat out of the water and get the RV ready for winter. Good storage means a spring with no bad surprises. Rushed storage, on the other hand, can mean a dead battery, a gummed-up fuel system or freeze damage.
Here are the essential steps — and why they matter for your protection too.
1. Start with a thorough cleaning
Dirt, salt and moisture collected over the season encourage corrosion during months of storage. Wash and dry the vehicle carefully, then apply a suitable protectant to painted and chrome surfaces.
Use the opportunity to walk around the vehicle: a leak, a worn tire or a damaged part is much easier to deal with now than in April, when everyone wants to get back on the road.
2. Protect the engine and fuel system
An engine that sits for months needs a little preparation:
- Change the oil before storage, not in spring, so used oil doesn’t sit in the engine all winter.
- Add a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes so it circulates through the whole system.
- Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for fuel level and other fluids — they vary by vehicle type.
3. Take care of the battery
Cold is a battery’s worst enemy. Remove it and store it somewhere temperate, or connect it to a battery maintainer for the winter. That’s often the difference between a first-try start and a replacement battery in spring.
4. Vehicle-specific points
Motorcycles, 3-wheelers and side-by-sides. Inflate tires to the recommended pressure — or raise the vehicle — to prevent flat spots. Lubricate the chain and cables, and use a breathable cover rather than a tarp that traps moisture.
Boats and personal watercraft. Water left in the engine or lines can freeze and cause serious damage. Winterizing the engine and water systems is a step where a service centre’s expertise really pays off.
RVs. Fully drain the plumbing and tanks, then protect the lines according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Check the roof and openings for leaks, and take steps against rodents, which love parked RVs.
5. Keep a record of all maintenance
This is the step people forget most often. Keep invoices and proof of maintenance, whether the work is done by your dealership or by you. If you ever file a claim, these documents may be requested to show the vehicle was properly maintained.
Storage season is also a good time to reread your protection contract: what are the maintenance requirements, and who do you call if something comes up in spring? If you have a question, Kimy can help you find the information to check in your contract.
A final word for dealerships
Storage season is a great way to stay in touch with customers during the off-season: winterization packages, pre-storage inspections, a spring reminder. It’s also the right moment to remind them of the value of their protection — and to set up the conversation for their next vehicle.
Explore our Powersport Plus, Marine and RV protection.
