Being the owner of a classic car and having the opportunity to drive it is a fantastic motoring experience. Not just with having a car that has great driving dynamics and performance, but also because of the responsibility of maintaining and caring for your classic car too. In this post, we have put together 5 tips for any classic car owner to help you preserve your car and prevent any potential problems.

Storage

The first thing you’ll need to take care of is suitable storage for your classic. Ideally you will keep your car stored inside of a large garage, not only does this protect your car from the weather, it also provides a place for you to carry out maintenance and restoration work when required, as well as somewhere to store your tools and spare parts. Avoid using thick plastic car covers, because they can do more harm than good. Make sure that your garage isn’t humid, as excess moisture can cause corrosion and affect mechanisms of the car.

Drive Your Car

When a classic car is sat in storage, unused for long periods of time, things like the fuel lines, brakes, suspension, tires, and brakes can all start to develop issues. Even a perfectly restored classic in perfect mechanical condition can become unusable if it is left sat in storage and unused for long periods of time. By simply driving your car whenever you have the time and the weather permits, you will prevent a number of problems which arise due to lack of use.

Connect With Other Classic Car Owners

There are lots of classic car enthusiasts who are always looking to connect with other classic car owners, you will more than likely be able to find other owners or groups in your area, where classic car owners get together and share knowledge and advice. Not only will taking part in discussions with other classic car owners help you to appreciate your classic more, but it will open up new connections to help you with restoring, maintaining, and finding parts for your classic when you need them.

Preservation During Winter

During the long winter months, most classic cars tend to stay in storage. To help prevent any deterioration of your classic during these winter months, there are several things you can do:

  • Fill up the fuel tank. Having a full fuel tank will prevent internal corrosion. However, when the winter months are over and you’re going to be using your classic car again, you should drain out the tank and fill it with fresh gas before the first drive.
  • Remove the battery and close the fuel lines.
  • Use appropriate chemicals to treat all of the rubber sealings around the doors and glass to avoid cracking.
  • Loosen the engine belts to help preserve them and avoid snapping and ruining the engine next time you start your car.
  • Raise your car on jacks or using wooden blocks, this will remove any pressure from the tires and the suspension, helping them to last longer.
  • Cover the dash and interior with a suitable cover, and keep the windows open to allow airflow through the car.

Keep A Small Stock of Spare Parts

It’s a good idea to keep a small stock of spare parts, especially essentials like spark plugs, cables, brake pads, filters, and cleaners. This ensures that you will be independ