Classic cars demand a whole lot more love and attention than modern ones. In exchange for their unique design and performance (some were only made for just one year), these cars need to be carefully maintained. If you’re a classic car owner, you need to have the right amount of interest and dedication to keep them in good condition.
Here are three suggestions to help you care for these delicate roadsters:
1. Fire up the engine regularly
Engines of classic rides can’t stay idle for too long. If you leave them in cold storage for extended periods, the car might not start or incur technical issues.
Take about 5-15 minutes to warm up the engine now and then. Depending on the model and the age of your vehicle, you might need to do this weekly or monthly.
If you have some time on your hands, take the car for a spin. Aside from exercising the car’s engine, it also helps in avoiding tire deformities—which can result after a considerable time sitting in just one spot.
2. Thoroughly clean the car
Classic cars have some of the most stunning paint jobs and exterior features. The Porsche 911 Carrera RS 2.7, Tucker 48, and 1965 Shelby GT350 are some great examples. It would be a shame to put all of that to waste.
Make sure to wax the car every few months. The wax coating will keep it from incurring minor and significant damages from wind and rain. Some wax products will last for many months, so find a product that fits the needs of your car.
After a drive, make sure there isn’t any dirt or grime on the vehicle. Pay special attention to the undercarriage and the areas around the wheels.
Unlike newer cars, you can’t just park a classic car and leave it there until the next drive. You need to ensure that the storage space has sufficient protection from excessive heat and moisture.
Brick garages do a pretty good job of maintaining optimal temperatures—not too hot and not too cold. But if you don’t have a brick garage, there a few steps you can take to ensure your classic car stays in good condition:
- If there are gaps in your garage door, make sure to insulate your car to shield it from cold air, which can seep through.
- It’s a good idea to install an indoor thermometer in the garage so you can accurately monitor temperature levels.
- Before parking the car, make sure the garage or space where you’re parking is clean and damp-free.
When you need to transport your rare or exotic car, be sure to work with shipping services that are highly experienced when handling these types of vehicles. They will usually provide a secure and enclosed car transport that keeps dust and debris out while in transit.
Don’t have enough time? Seek support
These are just a few pointers to follow to ensure that your classic car stays in good shape. There are many more to consider, and with these vehicles, a lot of work needs to be done regularly.
If you don’t have time, you can always visit the nearby auto shop and enlist the help of car service professionals.
