Audi TT 8N winter storage | Winter checklist

For many Audi TT enthusiasts, winter is the time to put their 8N into storage for a while. Proper preparation is particularly important if you want to keep the car in good condition. From ensuring the correct tyre pressure and a fully charged battery to cleaning the bodywork and protecting the interior: a few simple steps will help you avoid unnecessary problems. This checklist will help you get your Audi TT ready for winter and ensure you know what to look out for when spring arrives.

Preparation: mechanics, paintwork and interior
Before the TT is put into winter storage, it’s a good idea to give the car a thorough check-up, both mechanically and cosmetically. This will prevent dirt, moisture or a flat battery from causing any nasty surprises.

Technology
Start with the fluids and the tyres. Fill the TT 8N with RON98 and E5 petrol. Thanks to the plastic fuel tank, it doesn’t necessarily need to be filled to the brim. Fresh petrol in the spring is always a good idea. Check the oil level, the brake fluid and the coolant. Also ensure that the windscreen washer reservoir contains sufficient antifreeze. Check the tyre pressure and, if necessary, inflate the tyres slightly more to minimise deformation whilst the bike is in storage. A tyre pressure of around 3 to 3.5 bar can serve as a guideline for this, depending on the tyres and the conditions. The battery also deserves attention. You can connect a trickle charger to keep the battery charged, or remove the battery and recharge it regularly.

Paintwork and bodywork
Wash the car thoroughly and let it dry properly. Pay particular attention to the wheel arches and the rims. A fresh coat of wax helps to protect the paintwork whilst the car is in storage. Don’t forget the windscreen wipers either. You can remove them temporarily, replace them with an old set or lift them up so that they aren’t pressed against the windscreen for long periods.

Do you own a Roadster? If so, also check the drainage of the soft top and treat the rubber seals with a suitable care product. This will help prevent moisture from causing problems.

Interior
Remove any loose items from the interior and the boot, and clean the upholstery. Clean and condition the leather interior using suitable products. Remove the floor mats and, if necessary, place a moisture absorber in the car to minimise excess moisture during the winter.

Storing your Audi TT safely
The ideal place to store your car over winter is a dry, covered space. A garage or other sheltered spot protects the car from precipitation and the elements. Ideally, make sure the TT is clean and completely dry before you store it. If you use a car cover, it is important that the car remains dry underneath it. Moisture that becomes trapped under a cover can actually cause problems. You should therefore choose a cover that is suitable for the storage conditions.

When parking, please also bear the following points in mind:

Handbrake: when storing the car for a long period, it is best not to use the handbrake to prevent the brakes from seizing up. Put a manual TT into gear and an automatic into P. Do ensure that no strain is placed on the gearbox if the car is not on level ground.
Wheel chocks: use suitable wheel chocks where necessary to prevent the car from rolling away.
Windows left ajar: only do this if the storage area is dry and secure, and provided it does not allow any additional moisture to enter.
Battery: maintain the battery’s charge using a suitable trickle charger or recharge it regularly.

An important tip: are you putting your TT away after your final drive? If so, make sure you warm the engine up properly first, for example by driving for about 40 kilometres. The engine needs to rest during winter storage. A short drive during which the engine does not reach full operating temperature can actually leave moisture in the engine oil. You should therefore avoid running the engine for short bursts during the storage period.

Out of Winter Storage: Ready for Spring
As soon as the first sunny days arrive, it’s time to take the TT out again. Take a moment to get the car ready for the new season. Start with a thorough wash and, if necessary, apply a new coat of wax. Check the tire pressure and adjust it back to the normal driving pressure. If you’ve been using winter storage tires or a different set of tires, now is the time to reinstall the summer tires. Reattach the windshield wipers if you removed them, and check that the battery is sufficiently charged. Also, give the interior and the leather a quick once-over.

On your first drive, ease the TT back into action gently. Check that the brakes are functioning normally and watch for any warning lights on the dashboard. This way, you’ll identify any issues before you start enjoying the TT to the fullest again.

Waterproofing a Audi TT MK1 convertible roof

Extra care for the Roadster
The convertible requires a little extra care during winter storage. After all, the fabric soft top and its rubber seals are sensitive to moisture and dirt. Check the drainage of the soft top and clean it where necessary. Clean the soft top in accordance with the manufacturer’s instructions and, if necessary, treat the fabric with a suitable waterproofing agent. Ensure the soft top is completely dry before covering the car or putting it into long-term storage. This will help keep the Roadster’s soft top in good condition.

The rubber seals also need some maintenance. Treat them with a suitable product to keep them clean and supple.

The Audi TT 8N winter storage checklist

Want to make sure you don’t forget anything? Then download the checklist as a handy guide to help you prepare your car for winter storage and get it roadworthy again. With a little care before and after winter, your Audi TT 8N will stay in good condition and you’ll be able to enjoy driving it again in the spring.