How to Take Care of Your Muscle Car in Autumn: 6 Practical Tips

While our American cars evoke sunny Miami, the European weather can be a bit more challenging :) If you're part of the #drivingallyear team—that's great! But remember that autumn brings unpredictable weather, moisture, and other atmospheric factors that can negatively impact the condition of your muscle car. If you own such a vehicle, you surely care about its impeccable condition—both technically and visually. Therefore, it's important to get your vehicle ready for this season, especially if you plan to store it in a garage for an extended period. Below, you’ll find some practical tips on how to best protect your vehicle for the upcoming season.

1. Protecting the Body

The body of your car is the first element exposed to the changing autumn weather. Moisture, falling leaves, mud, and other contaminants can not only dirty the car but also create ideal conditions for rust development—especially since even seemingly innocent leaves can trap water in hard-to-reach places. Prolonged exposure to such conditions can lead to damage to the paint and metal, promoting corrosion.

To avoid this, it’s worth regularly washing the car and applying a protective wax. Wax creates a barrier that effectively protects the paint from moisture and dirt. It’s also a good practice to regularly check the condition of the paint and look for any damage, such as chips or scratches. Autumn is the perfect time to repair minor defects before lower temperatures worsen them. You might also consider using ceramic coatings, which provide even better protection for the paint against weather conditions.

2. Protecting the Interior 

The interior of every car requires special attention during the colder months, especially if it's leather-trimmed. Humid air can lead to mold, unpleasant odors, and damage to interior materials.

If you’re still using the car, remember to regularly ventilate the interior, especially after rainy days. Opening the windows for a few minutes (when the car is in the garage) allows for air circulation, reducing the risk of condensation and mold growth. It’s also a good idea to wipe down wet seats or other damp surfaces with a dry cloth after each drive to remove excess moisture.

Don’t forget about the interior when leaving the car in the garage for an extended period or even for the winter. Before such a period, thoroughly vacuum the interior and wipe down all surfaces, such as the dashboard, seats, and door panels, with appropriate cleaning products. Additionally, using special leather care products will help not only remove dirt but also maintain its elasticity and shine.

Optionally, consider investing in a moisture absorber to place inside the car. This small device will help maintain a dry atmosphere, preventing moisture buildup.

Finally, think about placing an air freshener or scent pad in the cabin to ensure not only cleanliness but also a pleasant aroma. With this simple step, when you finally get back behind the wheel, you’ll avoid any unpleasant olfactory surprises! ;)

3. Checking and Replacing Fluids

Before the colder days arrive, it’s essential to thoroughly check the levels and conditions of all the vehicle’s fluids. Pay particular attention to engine oil, coolant, and brake fluid—all of these should be regularly checked and replaced if necessary. Regular oil changes are crucial, especially if you plan to leave the car unused for several months. Maintaining the proper oil level not only ensures the engine operates correctly but also impacts its longevity.

Don’t forget about the windshield washer fluid. In autumn, we often face rain and mud on the roads, so make sure to stock up on a winter-grade fluid that won’t freeze in low temperatures. Also, check that your wipers are in good condition—worn blades can significantly reduce visibility in rainy weather.

Additionally, it’s wise to check the battery before the cold season. Low temperatures can diminish its performance, so ensure it’s charged and in good condition.

4. Caring for the Underbody and Exhaust System

The underbody of the vehicle is particularly vulnerable to moisture, mud, and road salt. Therefore, it’s important to regularly check the condition of the underbody's corrosion protection. If you notice that it’s not in the best shape, consider applying a new protective layer. Wax or oil-based products are especially recommended, as they effectively shield metal components from corrosion, creating a barrier against harmful external factors.

The exhaust system can also suffer. After each drive, it’s a good idea to run the car for a few minutes to expel excess moisture from the exhaust pipes. If you plan to store the car in the garage for an extended time, consider using special covers for the exhaust tips to prevent water from entering the system.

5. Protecting the Tires

Of course, the condition of the tires is crucial—their correct pressure and tread depth are essential for safety on slippery surfaces. Even if the car won’t be used for an extended period, tires can lose pressure, potentially leading to damage or deformation. Therefore, if you plan to leave the car in the garage for a long time, take steps to keep the tires in good shape.

Try to check the tire pressure from time to time, even when the car is parked. It’s a good practice to move the car occasionally, which helps distribute the load and prevent deformation. You can also invest in special wheel chocks that relieve the tires and maintain their proper shape.

Additionally, pay attention to the tread depth—tires with shallow tread can pose a risk in difficult weather conditions like rain or snow. Ensure the tread is appropriate for the season, and consider changing to seasonal tires if necessary.

6. Protecting the Car Body during extended storage with a Car Cover

If you plan to store your car for an extended period in the garage—whether it’s a Challenger, Mustang, Camaro, Corvette, or something entirely different—remember that the body will still be exposed to various contaminants, such as dust, dirt, sand, or pollen. These tiny particles can easily settle on the surface, potentially leading to scratches and imperfections in the paint over time. To maintain your vehicle’s impeccable condition, it’s worth investing in a suitable car cover that provides protection and helps keep it clean.

For American cars, we recommend Magic Carpit—this premium cover is designed to effectively protect against contaminants in garage environments. Made from high-quality Turkish materials, it’s lightweight yet extremely durable. Its special structure ensures proper air circulation, preventing harmful particles from accumulating. With this, you can be confident that your car will stay in perfect condition throughout autumn and winter. And importantly—it looks really stylish! ;)

Summing Up

Autumn is the time to pay special attention to your car, especially if it’s a muscle car like a Ford Mustang, Dodge Challenger or Charger, Chevrolet Camaro, or Corvette. Proper protection of the body, interior, underbody, and tires will allow you to enjoy your vehicle’s excellent condition for many years to come. Remember, caring for your car is not just about aesthetics, but also about safety and comfort in the future. By investing in the right protective measures, you gain confidence that your vehicle will be in top shape, ready for new adventures in the upcoming spring and summer!