Bringing Your Car Out of Storage May Require a Fresh Oil Change

Do You Need An Oil Change After Winter Storage?

Regardless of what kind of vehicle you drive, following a proper oil change schedule is crucial to its long-term health, performance and efficiency. We are rapidly approaching the time of year when people will start pulling their high-performance or otherwise special vehicles out of storage. A common question we hear from owners in this situation is, ‘Do you need an oil change after winter storage?’ The short answer is, maybe. It depends on the process that was followed when the vehicle was stored. However, it has never been a bad idea to err on the side of caution. Let’s take a closer look at some critical information.

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Misconceptions People Still Believe About Motor Oil

A lot has changed in the automotive service world in the last 15 to 20 years. While this has led to cars, trucks and SUVs being more reliable than ever, some outdated information lingers. We found a few of the most common misconceptions people have about motor oil, especially as it applies to vehicles stored for lengthy periods.

Oil lasts forever if you don’t drive a lot

All motor oil breaks down over time and becomes less effective. It can become susceptible to oxidation or moisture after sitting for more than six months.

Synthetic oil lasts forever

To be sure, synthetic motor oil has been an incredible development. And it certainly lasts longer in all situations than conventional motor oil. However, degradation still occurs over time.

Occasionally Starting The Engine Keeps Oil Fresh

There might not be something much worse for an engine than infrequent short trips, or just random periods of starting the engine and letting it idle for a bit. Short trips and only idling the engine can introduce moisture into the oil because it doesn’t get hot enough to evaporate it. This is how engine sludge and rust occur.

When Should You Change The Oil After Seasonal Storage?

Vehicle owners can be faced with a lot of questions as they bring their beloved platform out of storage for the driving season. Our team put together a list of best practices regarding oil changes after your classic car has been stored for the winter. You should change your vehicle’s oil in the spring if:

• The oil has been sitting for six months or more, which also includes if you changed the oil before putting the car away for winter
• Your storage unit is not climate-controlled. Temperature fluctuations can cause moisture to build up in the oil
• Also, don’t forget to change the filters when you change the oil for the first time in spring

Make an appointment with the Munro Motors Service Department if you need help getting your vehicle back on the road after sitting in storage all winter. Also, please contact our sales team if it’s time to find something new to drive.