The Pros and Cons of Parking in Your Garage Over the Winter

One of the biggest advantages of having a garage is the convenience of parking your car inside during the winter. No more shoveling snow or scraping ice off your vehicle. It also keeps your car's engine fluids warm, making it easier to start on cold mornings.

A garage provides protection for your car all year round. In the summer, it shields your car from harmful UV rays, while in the winter, it helps keep the car dry by preventing snow and slush from accumulating. Even if your garage isn’t insulated, it still offers some level of protection.

However, there are some arguments against parking your car in the garage during the colder months. Some experts suggest that the constant temperature changes can lead to issues with rubber seals and body panels. According to an article in the Globe & Mail, two Canadian professors have pointed out potential risks:

• Moving your car in and out of the garage can cause snow and ice to melt and refreeze, which may damage the seals over time.
• The damp environment in the garage, especially when combined with road salt, can create conditions that promote rusting.

If you park your car in the garage after a snowy day, the snow will eventually melt, creating condensation. This moisture, along with salt and fluctuating temperatures, can speed up the rusting process. This might affect not just the body of your car but also parts like the exhaust system and radiator.

While there’s no clear consensus on whether parking in the garage is better or worse, it ultimately comes down to personal preference. If you don’t notice any signs of rust and enjoy waking up to a clean car, then keeping it in the garage might be the right choice for you.