Garages are designed to protect our vehicles, but during winter, they could be quietly causing serious damage instead. Damp, poorly ventilated garages can create the perfect breeding ground for mould, leading to hidden interior damage, electrical faults and costly repairs. Especially for caravan owners who store tow cars over winter or use them only occasionally, the risk can be higher than expected.
“People assume their garage is keeping their car safe,” explains Kazimieras Urbonas, supplier excellence manager at Ovoko, one of Europe’s largest online marketplaces for used car parts. “But if you’re noticing a musty smell or persistent condensation on your windows, your garage might actually be causing more harm than good.”
Why winter garages become mould traps
During colder months, vehicles regularly bring rain, snow and road spray into enclosed spaces. Once parked, that moisture settles, and without proper ventilation, it has nowhere to escape. This can affect not just the vehicle’s bodywork, but its interior too.
The hidden damage you can’t see
Surface mould might be visible on dashboards or seals, but the real issue often lies beneath. The parts that are most likely to be infected with mould include carpets and underlay, seat padding, headliners and cabin air ducts. These areas easily hold moisture, allowing mould to grow unnoticed.
Four warning signs you shouldn’t ignore
To prevent serious damage to your vehicle, keep an eye out for these four indicators of a moisture problem:
- Repeated fogging on windows, even when the car hasn’t been driven
- A persistent musty or earthy smell
- Black or green spots on seatbelts or upholstery
- Intermittent electrical issues with windows, locks or dashboard displays
How to protect your vehicle this winter
Fortunately, there are practical steps drivers can take. Mr Urbonas suggests the following:
- Improve garage ventilation where possible
- Leave a window slightly open (if safe to do so)
- Use a garage dehumidifier
- Place moisture-absorbing products inside the vehicle
- Drive the car at least once a week to generate heat and dry out the interior
“The most effective prevention is regular use,” Urbonas concludes. “A short weekly drive can naturally remove built-up moisture and help protect your vehicle long-term.”
Photo credit: Unsplash
