Van lifers — you know who you are.
You’re the people who’ve poured your heart, weekends, and paychecks into turning a van into your home on wheels. You’ve chased mountain views, beach sunsets, and wide-open highways. But as the temperatures drop and the leaves start to crunch under your tires, your season of adventure might be winding down.
We all know that winter prep matters for vehicles that stay on the road — but what about the ones that don’t? How you prepare your van for its winter hibernation can make a huge difference when it’s time for that spring awakening.
Here at DeBoer’s Auto, we want to help you protect that hard-earned investment so your rig wakes up ready for the next adventure, not the next repair bill.
Why Winter Prep Matters
When a vehicle sits too long, things happen quietly that can lead to big headaches later. Batteries lose charge. Tires develop flat spots. Moisture sneaks in. Critters move in. All those long, still months can add up to a rough start when spring rolls around.
That’s why we recommend a quick pre-storage service before you tuck your van away. A little attention now can save you from a spring full of “uh-oh” moments.
A Few Key Steps to Help Your Van Hibernate Happily
Start with the oil and filters. Used oil collects moisture and acids that can corrode engine parts while the van sits. An oil change before storage keeps everything protected and fresh until spring.
Next up: fuel. Top off your tank and add a fuel stabilizer. It keeps your gasoline from breaking down and prevents condensation from forming inside the tank — both of which can cause starting issues later.
Don’t forget your tires. Make sure they’re in good shape and properly inflated before parking. As temperatures drop, tire pressure does too. If the van sits with under-inflated tires, flat spots can form or — in extreme cases — rims can dig into the rubber. Checking pressure once or twice during the winter is a simple way to prevent it.
Batteries also deserve some love. Cold weather and inactivity can drain them fast. A battery tender (a small, plug-in maintenance charger) keeps it topped off all winter. Or, if that’s not possible, disconnect the battery to prevent parasitic drain. Come spring, you’ll turn the key without a jump-start.
Check and top off your fluids. Coolant, brake fluid, and windshield washer fluid should all be full and rated for freezing temps.
And before you walk away, lubricate your doors and hinges. It’s a small thing that prevents them from sticking or seizing after sitting through the cold months. Nobody wants to start the season with a door that won’t open.
Clean It Before You Park It
A good, thorough cleaning — inside and out — makes a world of difference.
Vacuum, wipe down, and clear out any crumbs or spills. Critters have an incredible sense of smell, and even a tiny snack wrapper can invite unwanted guests. On the outside, wash away dirt, salt, and road grime. Leftover salt especially can lead to corrosion and rust, which is something every Northeasterner knows all too well.
If your storage area is prone to mice or chipmunks, consider contacting a local pest control service for prevention options. A little pro help can keep those furry vandals from turning your wiring harness into a chew toy.
Whether your van is your weekend escape pod, your full-time home, or even part of your business, DeBoer’s Auto is here to keep it healthy all year long.
We offer pre-storage inspections to make sure everything is topped, charged, and ready for the cold, and spring reawakening services to bring it back to life safely when the adventure season returns.
So whether you live in your van down by the river or just take it there on weekends — let us help you protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Let your van rest easy this winter — and when adventure season returns, DeBoer’s will have you rolling worry-free.
