How to properly store motorcycles, ATVs and RVs over the winter
The days are getting shorter, leaves are changing colour and there’s a chill in the air. Depending on your situation, the change of season can mean back-to-school, heading off to southern climes or a case of the late-summer blues. For many Quebecers, the arrival of fall is the time to once again get their summer vehicles ready for storage over the winter. Whatever type of vehicle you have, you can certainly avoid unpleasant surprises by properly storing it until the fine weather returns. Here are some useful tips.
How to prepare an RV, trailer or camper for winter storage
Winter storage checklist
- Water tanks: Drain and rinse the freshwater, grey water and black water tanks.
- Pipes: Empty the water lines via the drains under the vehicle.
- Water-pump: Open the taps and operate the pump for complete drainage.
- Water-heater: Shut off the water-heater intake valve and adjust the bypass valves to winter setting; turn off the electrical switch and completely drain the hot-water tank.
- Water filter: Remove the water filter and store it in a dry place.
- Antifreeze: Pour antifreeze into the freshwater tank and the drains for the washbasin, bath, shower and toilet. Turn on the pump and open the taps until the antifreeze flows through.
- Refrigerator: Empty and wash the refrigerator and leave the door ajar to prevent musty smells.
- Sealing joints: Inspect the joints of the vehicle’s roof, doors, windows and slideouts, and replace as required.
- Parking: Park the RV indoors (in your garage or other space rented for this purpose).
How to prepare a motorcycle, ATV or motocross bike for winter storage
Winter storage checklist
- Fuel: Fill up the fuel tank to prevent condensation buildup.
- Tires: Inflate the tires to the recommended pressure to prevent them from losing their shape.
- Bodywork: Clean the bodywork, tires and plastic surfaces to remove all dirt that might undermine the paint and varnish.
- Chain: Grease the chain to prevent surface rust.
- Carburetors: Drain the carburetor (if your vehicle has one) to prevent sludge buildup.
- Battery: Disconnect the battery and store it in a safe place away from the cold.
- Parking: Park the vehicle indoors (in your garage or other space rented for this purpose).
- Cover: Protect the vehicle from dust and damp by covering it with a breathable cover that does not hold condensation.
Get a partial refund on your vehicle registration fee
If you notify the Société d’assurance automobile du Québec (SAAQ) that you are putting your RV or motorcycle into winter storage, you may receive a registration reimbursement for the months you’re not using your vehicle. You can apply for this refund either online at the
SAAQ website or through its automated telephone service or at any of its service outlets. When you do so, remember to have on hand the registration certificate of the vehicle to be stored. Note: Motorcycles must be stored no later than September 30, and if you store your vehicle for 12 months or more, it needs to be mechanically inspected when taken out of storage.
And where does vehicle insurance come in?
Snowmobiles, RVs, motorcycles and ATVs are generally used on a seasonal basis in Quebec. Insurance premiums for these kinds of vehicles are therefore based on seasonal usage, which means that you don’t receive credit for putting any of your seasonal vehicles (RV, fifth-wheel, motorcycle, ATV or tent-trailer and camping kit) into winter storage. In the case of a motorhome, you may receive a credit depending on what your insurance policy specifies.
So, be sure to check with your insurance broker for your best options before setting off in your seasonal vehicle next spring!