Should You Store Your Porsche for the Winter? Here’s How to Do It Right

The combination of road salt, ice, and harsh Michigan weather can wreak havoc on your Porsche’s performance, appearance, and value. If you’re wondering whether you should store your Porsche during the colder months, the short answer is: yes—if you want to preserve its condition and resale value.

But proper storage isn’t as simple as parking it in the garage and throwing on a cover. To make sure your investment is well-protected, you should follow the right steps before putting it away for the season. As experts in Porsche service in Ann Arbor, we’ve prepared this guide to help you store your vehicle the right way.

 

Step-by-Step Guide to Storing Your Porsche for Winter

1. Schedule a Pre-Storage Inspection

Before putting your Porsche away, have it inspected by a certified technician at ArborMotion. Our shop specializes in Porsche service in Ann Arbor and can check for leaks, worn components, or service needs. Addressing these now means fewer surprises come spring.

 

2. Clean It Inside and Out

Give your Porsche a thorough wash, paying special attention to the wheel wells and undercarriage where dirt and debris can hide. Apply a coat of high-quality wax to protect the paint. Inside, vacuum carpets, wipe surfaces, and remove any food or trash that could attract pests.

 

3. Change the Oil and Fluids

Even if it’s not time for your regular service, fresh oil helps prevent contaminants from sitting in your engine all winter. Top off brake fluid, coolant, and windshield washer fluid with a winter blend to prevent freezing.

 

4. Fill the Fuel Tank and Add Stabilizer

A full tank prevents moisture buildup in the fuel system. Add a fuel stabilizer and run the engine for a few minutes to circulate it through the system.

 

5. Protect the Battery

Batteries can drain during long periods of inactivity. Either disconnect the battery or use a battery maintainer to keep it charged without overcharging.

 

6. Prevent Tire Flat Spots

Inflate your tires to the recommended pressure and consider using tire cradles or jacking the car slightly to reduce pressure on one spot. If you’re using summer tires, switch to storage wheels and tires to preserve your performance set.

 

7. Cover It Correctly

Invest in a breathable, fitted car cover made specifically for your Porsche. Avoid cheap plastic covers, which can trap moisture and damage the paint.

 

8. Control the Storage Environment

If possible, store your Porsche in a climate-controlled garage. If that’s not an option, at least ensure the space is dry, clean, and secure from pests.

 

When to Bring It Back Out

Come spring, don’t just start the engine and hit the road. Schedule a post-storage check with your trusted Porsche technician at ArborMotion. They’ll inspect fluids, brakes, tires, and electrical systems to ensure your Porsche is ready for performance driving again.

 
Rennstatt is Your Reliable Porsche Specialist!

 

Storing your Porsche for the winter isn’t just about keeping it clean—it’s about preserving performance, value, and driving enjoyment for years to come. With the right preparation and care, your Porsche will be ready to roar back to life when warm weather returns.

 

If you need expert help preparing your vehicle for storage—or waking it up in the spring—our team offers specialized Porsche service in Ann Arbor to keep your car in peak condition year-round.

The Ultimate Fall Car Maintenance Checklist

As the crisp air rolls in and the leaves start to fall, it’s the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for the colder months ahead. Seasonal maintenance can prevent costly repairs, improve safety, and keep your car running smoothly all winter long. If you’re looking for European auto repair in Ann Arbor, this checklist will help ensure your vehicle is in top shape before temperatures drop.

1. Check Your Tires

Cooler temperatures can cause tire pressure to drop. Make sure your tires are properly inflated and have adequate tread depth to handle wet or slippery roads. If you drive a high-performance European vehicle, consider switching to winter tires for added grip.

 

2. Inspect Brakes

Wet leaves, frost, and early snow can make roads slick. Have your brakes inspected to ensure maximum stopping power.

 

3. Test the Battery

Cold weather is tough on car batteries. ArborMotion can check your battery’s charge and condition to avoid an untimely breakdown.

 

4. Replace Wiper Blades

Visibility is key in fall rain and snow. Replace worn blades and top off washer fluid with a winter-safe formula.

 

5. Check Lights

Shorter days mean more driving in the dark. Test all headlights, brake lights, and turn signals to ensure they’re working properly.

 

6. Service Fluids

From oil to coolant, fresh fluids help your engine run efficiently and protect against winter damage. A shop specializing in European auto repair in Ann Arbor can make sure you’re using the correct fluids for your make and model.

 

Fall maintenance isn’t just a seasonal chore—it’s an investment in your vehicle’s performance and safety. For expert care, trust a local shop that understands the unique needs of European vehicles.

 

We’re Ann Arbor’s Choice for Import Auto Repair & Service for 40 Years

We specialize in European auto repair in Ann Arbor. All our technicians are ASE certified and three have ASE Master Technician certifications. If you want a reputable technician who specializes in your brand of vehicle, schedule an appointment with us today! 

5 Common Mistakes Drivers Make When Following Mileage Intervals

Keeping up with mileage-based maintenance is the best way to extend the life of your vehicle—but all of us can miss checkpoints from time to time, leading to unnecessary wear or costly repairs. We often see the same five avoidable mistakes, such as:

1. Ignoring the Owner’s Manual
   Relying on general advice instead of the specific intervals recommended in your owner’s manual can lead to premature issues—especially with high-performance European models.
2. Delaying Oil Changes
   It’s easy to stretch oil changes a few hundred miles past the due date, but consistently delaying this basic service can damage your engine over time. Synthetic oil in European vehicles should still be changed regularly, even if it lasts longer.
3. Skipping Inspections Between Services
   Mileage intervals focus on what to replace, but they don’t always catch developing problems. Regular inspections can help detect leaks, worn belts, or brake issues before they become a problem.
4. Not Adjusting for Driving Conditions
   Stop-and-go traffic, short trips, or extreme weather can all justify more frequent maintenance. If you drive in tough conditions, your standard mileage schedule may not be enough.
5. Assuming All Fluids Last Forever
   Transmission, brake, and coolant fluids often get overlooked. Even if there’s no warning light, these fluids degrade over time and can lead to serious repairs if neglected.

 Weighing the risks of DIY mileage-based maintenance? Learn more about when to call in the pros here!

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

 

For drivers who want to protect their investment and ensure peak performance, working with experienced technicians makes all the difference. Schedule your next checkup today and let us take care of all your mileage-based maintenance needs. Call us for Asian and European auto repair at 734-761-1088 to schedule your appointment today!

 

Seasonal Maintenance Tips for Fall Driving

As leaves change color and temperatures drop, it's the perfect time to get your vehicle ready for cooler months ahead. Fall maintenance not only prevents costly repairs but ensures that your car runs safely and efficiently through Michigan’s unpredictable weather. 

Here are a few essential fall maintenance tips to keep in mind:

 

1. Check Your Battery: Colder temperatures can reduce battery performance. Have your battery tested to ensure it’s holding a charge—and replace it if necessary.
2. Inspect Brakes and Tires: Wet leaves and slick roads demand reliable stopping power. Check brake pads for wear and make sure your tires have enough tread and proper pressure.
3. Replace Wiper Blades and Top Off Fluids: Visibility is so important on rainy fall days. Replace worn wipers and ensure washer fluid, coolant, and brake fluid are topped off.
4. Schedule a Full Inspection: Fall is a great time for a comprehensive checkup. We specialize in European Auto Repair in Ann Arbor and can perform a complimentary seasonal inspection tailored to your vehicle’s make and model.

 Weighing the risks of DIY mileage-based maintenance? Learn more about when to call in the pros here!

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

 

By taking care of these small maintenance tasks now, you can avoid bigger problems later—and stay safer on the road as winter approaches. Looking for expert service? 

 

Schedule your next service appointment today and let us take care of your seasonal maintenance needs. Call us for Asian and European auto repair at 734-761-1088 to schedule your appointment today!

All the Components of Your Suspension: What You Need to Know

Your suspension does more than provide a smooth ride—it’s essential for handling, safety, and tire longevity. If you drive a European vehicle like a BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, or Volvo, understanding the components of your suspension is critical to keeping your car performing at its best.

Let’s break down all the key components of your vehicle’s suspension system and why they matter:

 

1. Springs

Springs support the weight of your vehicle and absorb bumps down the road. Most European vehicles use coil springs because they’re durable and compact. However, some high-end models use air suspension systems for a smoother ride. Over time, springs can sag or break, especially if you frequently drive over rough terrain.

 

2. Shock Absorbers 

Shock absorbers control the bounce and rebound of the springs to prevent excessive movement, while struts help support your suspension system. Worn shocks or struts can make your car bounce or cause uneven tire wear.

 

3. Control Arms

Control arms connect the chassis to the wheel. They allow up-and-down movements while maintaining proper wheel alignment. Upper and lower control arms help keep your tires in contact with the road.

 

4. Ball Joints

Ball joints connect the control arms to the steering knuckles, allowing your wheels to move up and down and turn left or right. If they wear out, you may hear clunking noises or feel vibrations in your steering wheel.

 

5. Sway Bars 

Sway bars help reduce body roll during turns by distributing weight evenly across all four tires. Faulty sway bar links or bushings can lead to excessive body roll or poor cornering.

 

6. Bushings

Bushings are rubber or polyurethane cushions that reduce friction and absorb vibrations. Over time, bushings can crack or deteriorate, leading to a bumpier drive and more noise.

 

7. Steering Rack and Tie Rods

The steering rack and tie rods work closely with the suspension to keep your wheels aligned and responsive. Worn tie rods can cause your steering to feel loose or cause uneven tire wear.

 

Why Suspension Maintenance Matters for European Vehicles

 

European cars are known for their precision handling and luxury ride quality—both depend on a healthy suspension system. Small issues can lead to major problems if left unchecked. For example, worn struts can affect braking performance and tire wear, while damaged bushings can impact ride comfort and stability.

 

Our experts for European auto repair recommend having your suspension inspected during regular service intervals or if you notice symptoms like:

• A rough or bouncy ride
• Nose-diving when braking
• Excessive body roll when turning
• Uneven or rapid tire wear
• Steering that feels loose or unresponsive

 Learn more about essential milage-based maintenance services here.

Trust the Local Experts in European Auto Repair in Ann Arbor

 

Your suspension system is complex, but you don’t have to navigate repairs alone. Our technicians are trained and equipped to diagnose and service all types of European suspensions—from standard coil spring setups to advanced adaptive air suspensions.

If you’re experiencing handling issues or just want peace of mind, schedule a suspension inspection with our experienced team. We provide trusted, transparent, and expert European auto repair in Ann Arbor. 

 

Need a suspension checkup or repair for your European vehicle? Contact us today to schedule service and experience the difference specialized care makes.

 

Mileage vs. Time-Based Maintenance: Which One Should You Follow?

Should you follow mileage-based or time-based maintenance schedules? Many car owners assume that as long as they haven't hit the next mileage milestone, they’re in the clear. That’s not always the case.

We remind customers that time can be just as critical as mileage when it comes to preventative maintenance. Fluids degrade, rubber components crack, and filters clog—even if the car spends more time in the garage than on the road.

 

Mileage-based maintenance is ideal for items that wear down with use, such as brake pads, tires, and spark plugs. If you drive a lot or commute far, following your vehicle’s mileage intervals is essential.

 

Time-based maintenance ensures that oil, coolant, and transmission fluid are still performing effectively—regardless of how many miles you've driven. For example, even if you've only driven 3,000 miles in a year, a year-old oil filter could still compromise your engine’s health.

Learn about other essential milage-based services here.

 

For expert guidance tailored to your specific vehicle, trust the professionals in European auto repair in Ann Arbor. We’ll help you develop a maintenance plan that protects your investment—whether it’s based on the odometer or the calendar.

What Are Spark Plugs Anyway?

If you've ever had your car serviced, you've probably heard the term “spark plugs”. But what exactly are they—and why should you care?

Spark plugs are small but essential components of your car’s engine. Spark plugs ignite the air-fuel mixture in the combustion chamber, which starts the engine and keeps it running. Without functioning spark plugs, your car won’t start, idle smoothly, or run efficiently. Over time, spark plugs wear and can cause rough starts, poor fuel economy, and engine misfires.

 

This is especially important if you drive a European vehicle, which often requires precision parts and specialized care. At our shop specializing in European Auto Repair in Ann Arbor, we frequently replace spark plugs as part of routine maintenance for brands like BMW, Audi, Mercedes-Benz, and Volkswagen.

 

Not sure when your spark plugs were last changed? We keep tabs on all of your maintenance needs to keep your European vehicle running at peak performance. 

Learn more why timely replacement is essential for modern cars here. 

 

Schedule Service on Your Asian or European Vehicle Today!

 

Schedule your next service appointment with ArborMotion today and let us take care of your spark plugs and all your vehicle's maintenance needs. Call us for Asian and European auto repair at 734-761-1088  to schedule your appointment today!