Greetings,

My son is heading off to college, leaving his car at home.  I'm going
to store it at a neighbor's house, parked outside.  It won't be driven
much at all for nine months, but I will be able to get over there a
couple of times a month to start it up and drive it around a little,
so it won't be completely idle.

This is an area with severe winters (very cold and snowy).  Should I
get a car cover for it?  I've read differing opinions on that, with
some saying that the risk of scratches and condensation makes that a
bad idea.

Other than a wash & oil change, any other preparations I should make
on the car?

Thanks in advance.