Classic cars are considered classics for a reason. Of course, there are factors that help to determine when a car becomes a classic. However, the make and model of a vehicle are often clear indicators that a car is a classic.
When a classic car is in pristine condition, it easily captures the attention of those it passes. Keeping a classic car in the best condition possible is a task its owners have to ensure they are willing to take on when they invest. Investing in a classic car can be a worthwhile investment. Unlike other cars, classic cars can increase in value over the years.
If you love your classic car but are unsure how to care for it, keep reading to find our useful tips to keep your vintage vehicles in pristine condition.
Get The Right Insurance
Starting simple, getting the right insurance for your classic car is a must. You need to have insurance to drive a car, but insurance policies are available that are specific to classic cars. Taking out classic car insurance can be good for some peace of mind. Look at providers like Lancaster Insurance Services for classic car insurance policies.
Classic car insurance can offer the extra care and attention these vintage vehicles need. Experiencing any mechanical problems with a classic car can be costly. It is understandable for owners to want insurance to help front the costs and provide peace of mind that their vehicle is well cared for.
Ensure It Is Well Maintained
Along with the right insurance, regular maintenance is also key to helping ensure a vehicle is in the best possible condition. Take your car for regular services, and this is to help to spot any potential risks that could evolve into costly issues if not treated. If you are planning to attend classic car shows, visiting a mechanic can help to ensure that your car is ready to take a long-distance trip.
Regular maintenance includes checking to see that the car is operating as it should. Ensuring the battery, brakes, gearboxes, and everything in between is up to the right standard. Additionally, regularly checking it can be helpful if you decide to sell your vintage vehicle in the future.
Continuously Check Fluids And Tyres
On the topic of keeping your classic car well maintained, ensure that you are checking the fluid levels, such as the oil levels. Keeping an eye on these levels, especially before you start driving, will help reduce the risks of a breakdown occurring en route to your chosen destination. Checking the fluid levels will also help to reduce the risk of any damage occurring to your classic car.
When checking the fluid levels before departing, ensure that you also check the tyres. Ensure that the tyres of your car have a tread depth of 1.6mm, which is the legal tread depth for a car’s tyres. Should your tyres be approaching this figure, consider changing them before they reach 1.6mm.
Keep It Clean
Another maintenance tip worth considering is keeping your classic car clean. Of course, you will likely be cleaning it regularly to ensure it always looks its best. However, conducting a thorough cleaning of your car can help to prevent any unpleasant surprises from developing further. Don’t forget to clean the interior of your car, as well as the exterior.
Before cleaning, check to see if the products you use are suitable for your classic car. The last thing you will want to do is spend time cleaning your car only to find out that you are damaging the interiors or the paintwork due to the cleaning materials you are using. If you are unsure about what materials to use, speak with a professional to see what they would recommend or see if they offer classic car cleaning services.
Store It In A Safe Location
After checks have occurred and your car is clean, the next thing worth considering is where your classic car will be parked. Whilst many choose to leave their car parked outside their house, it is parked in a vulnerable area. Cars driving by could clip the wing mirror, and some might accidentally hit their car door against the other person’s.
Of course, you could park it on the drive, but the general public can still access it. Instead, find a safe location, such as a garage. This way, you can store it on your property but keep it out of the public eye. Alternatively, you might want to look for a storage space that will allow you to park your car in a safe and monitored location. It can provide you with peace of mind that your classic car is in a safe spot.
Take It Out For Short Drives
Some might say the best way to keep your classic car safe is by not taking it out on drives and using it more as a show car. Whilst this will help to reduce risks of breakdowns, accidents or damages made to your car, it could also impact its ability to run. To keep your car in good condition, you should aim to take it out, so the battery is charged.
If you rarely drive your car, the battery will subsequently die, meaning it can be a costly repair. Instead, start the engine up occasionally and go out for short drives. This way, you get good use out of your car and ensure that the battery does not drain away unnecessarily. If you were to take your car to a classic car show or special occasion, you would feel confident about driving it as you have been out for regular short journeys.
In Summary
A classic car is an investment and a statement. It is a luxury purchase that many car fanatics fantasise about achieving at some point in their lives. If you love your classic car, keep some of the tips mentioned above in mind. It will help you hold onto your beloved investment for a little longer.