The cold weather is coming. Now might be time to put the toys away. When storing your car start with a clean and dry area. The space doesn't have to be heated, but should be secure. Remember once the car is laid up, don't play with it. If you plan to work on your car then don't bother mothballing the vehicle or do all the work before storage. If you plan to drive your car on clear snow free days, I would advise against it. The salt that is used on the roads is usually mixed with the dust at the side of the road and will creep into body seems and welds. Once these areas wet up in spring, you'll have corrosion. A good rustproofing application should allow you to use the vehicle year round. If you don't plan to store the car you can exercise it on a regular schedule, but remember to fully warm it up before shutting it down.

Dear Dave,
I've recently purchased a 2010 Mustang GT convertible. I've waited 45 years to have one and I desperately want to take very good mechanical care of it. I'll be storing the car in a detached, unheated garage with electrical service and a cement floor. I've read all kinds of suggestions on the Internet and now I'm totally confused. Due to all the electronics onboard I really do not want to remove the battery from the vehicle.

Remove the battery and take it inside. Removing the battery will not harm the electronics. You will only lose your presets. Place the battery in a dry area and connect a battery minder (NAPA about 40 bucks). Fill tank to top and add fuel stabilizer (NAPA $8). Is the oil clean. Is the interior dry? Are the tire pressures up? On older cars it might be advisable to check or change the antifreeze. Spray the wheels with “PAM” cooking product (liberally along with any other piece of chrome that might rust or pit). Cover car with a clear tarp. I like to leave the windows down about a ? of an inch to allow venting of the interior. It might be advisable to rustproof the car and you're done.

One more thing: Don't do this at the last minute.