How can I take care of my classic car?

In this day and age, the auto industry has reached a very advanced level. Cars nowadays offer endless amenities and features, not to mention that they come in magnificent designs from inside out.

However, for many people, classic cars remain priceless and timeless.

Regardless of their age, classic cars are head-turners. They stand out in a world of modernity and hold a special place in the hearts of their owners. Many drivers have also dreamed about owning a classic car for years but never considered making it a reality. The question is why?

It comes as no surprise that classic cars require special care and attention in order to perform their best and hold their value. Therefore, some people may find it a hassle to own a classic car, as they have zero experience in maintaining older vehicles. But what if we told you that taking care of your classic car is simple, straightforward, and manageable? That's right. As long as you know what to do and how to properly do, there won't be a problem.

Here are some easy and simple tips to help you look after your precious classic car:

Store it in a garage

First of all, if you're an owner of a classic car, you need to store it in a garage that is free of damp. Classic cars can easily become corroded if subjected to bad weather conditions. So in order to protect the life and the beauty of your classic car, keep it away from all kinds of bad weather conditions, such as direct sunlight, dust, dirt, etc…

Keep it clean

Washing your classic car – outside and inside – is very important to keep it in a good condition. You need to make sure that there isn't any mud, grime, salt, and other dirt ruining it and affecting its lifespan and durability.

Start it up regularly

When you leave classic cars inactive for a long period of time, problems may occur. It is recommended that you start up your classic car at least once every couple of weeks to prevent potential problems, faults, and corrosion. It is also recommended that you take a short run of your car at least once a month to prevent brakes and clutches sticking and failing hydraulics.

Disconnect the battery

If you can't start up the car regularly and have to leave it for a long period, this will prevent the battery going flat. Consequently, this will reduce the battery's life and you'll have to jump start the car the next time you start it up. Therefore, disconnect your battery until you can start up the car again.

Leave the handbrake off

Leaving the handbrake off is recommended in classic cars, since cables can seize up and fail to release when you let the brake off. If the car is on a slope, leave it in gear or use chocks under the wheels to keep it in place.

Keep the fluids topped up

While other cars can be driven hard without any maintenance between services, this is not the case in classic cars. In order to stay healthy and running, classic cars need their fluids topped up regularly. These fluids are oil, water, brake fluid, and clutch fluid.

Keep the engine in tune

Classic cars engines are old and they require special care and attention. Keep your engine well-tuned. A tune-up means engine wear items, such as ignition wires, rotor, distributor gap, and spark plugs. Additionally, keep the engine coolant full, because any problem with the cooling system can cause the engine to overheat.

Have the car checked

A lot of problem may occur in classic cars, some noticeable and some aren't. In addition to oil change visits, you need to take your classic car to check its brakes, steering, suspension, and tyres.

If you plan on purchasing a classic car but you're worried about its condition, you can always scout it using ScoutMyCar, which will give you full-service vehicle inspection from inside out, service history report, and price recommendation.