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As you may no doubt realise, owning a classic car is a real labour of love! Unlike modern vehicles, our older cars demand more regular care, patience and attention to detail to keep them running happily and smoothly. With the right maintenance and habits, though, you can likely enjoy your pride and joy for many years down the line. Here are some of our essential tips to help keep your classic car roadworthy for longer…
One of the most important things you can do is to keep up with routine servicing. Oil and filter changes are crucial because older engines don’t cope very well with dirty or degraded oil. You’ll need to check and replace the spark plugs, belts and hoses before they wear out, as small issues can quickly become costly problems in a classic vehicle. Sticking to a service schedule, even if not required by law for older cars, is a sensible way to catch any faults early. Remember too that some insurers require evidence of roadworthiness, especially for agreed-value or high-value classic car policies.
Regular exercise is just as important for a classic car as it is for people! Leaving a vehicle standing for months on end is one of the quickest ways to cause deterioration. Rubber seals dry out, fluids settle, batteries discharge and brakes can seize. Aim to drive your car at least once a month if you can, allowing it to warm up properly and run through the gears. This not only keeps everything lubricated but also helps you spot any potential issues.
Older braking systems, particularly those using drum brakes or early hydraulic systems, can develop issues such as fluid leaks, seal deterioration and faded or cracked brake hoses. Your classic’s brakes should be tested thoroughly during every service, and older lines or components should be changed for high-quality replacements.
Now, storing your classic correctly will make a huge difference to its longevity. A dry, well-ventilated garage is ideal, as damp conditions accelerate rust and electrical problems and encourage the gremlins to come in! If you don’t have access to indoor storage, you could invest in a breathable, weatherproof car cover (rather than a cheap plastic one which can trap moisture and cause more harm than good). Also, consider using a trickle charger to maintain the battery while it’s not in use.
Pay close attention to your tyres, as they can deteriorate with age even if the tread looks fine. Classic cars can often spend long periods of time off the road, which can lead to flat spots or sidewall cracking. Check the pressures regularly, keep them inflated to the recommended level, and replace tyres that are more than five or six years old, regardless of their appearance (this is what the RAC recommends, even if you only drive limited miles each year).
Rust is the number one enemy of most older vehicles, so staying on top of corrosion is essential. Wash your car regularly, including the wheel arches and the underside, especially if you drive in wet or salty conditions. After cleaning, apply a protective wax or sealant to the bodywork. Inspect any hidden areas like sills, floorpans and boot wells frequently, and deal with any small rust patches immediately before they start to spread…
The electrical systems in classics can be temperamental, so keeping connections clean and secure will help prevent faults from taking hold. Use dielectric grease on terminals, check the earth connections and avoid overloading old wiring with multiple modern gadgets.
Finally, don’t overlook the paperwork side of things. Keeping your service receipts and parts invoices not only helps with the resale value if you do come to sell, but also gives you a reliable record of what has been done and when. Even if your classic is MOT-exempt, an annual check-up by a specialist is highly recommended, as a second pair of eyes may spot something you’ve missed.
We need to keep seeing as many of our wonderful classics out there on the roads! With a little preventative care, sensible use and proper storage, you’ll not only extend your car’s roadworthy life but also protect your investment - and continue to preserve a piece of motoring history for the future generations.
No pressure, then!