Classic cars cost between $10,000 and several hundred thousand dollars, and the last thing you want is for your classic car to lose functionality or value due to poor maintenance. And to make matters worse, there aren’t as many classic car maintenance tips available for first-time classic car owners as one would like.
So, how do you maintain your classic cars and prevent the waste of money? Well, you start from the most visible part of your car: the body.
Keeping Your Classic Car Clean
Grime and dirt buildup are the biggest enemies of a classic car’s body, as they can damage the paint job and underbody. Dirt and grime often contain or mix with substances that can be corrosive. For example, when dirt mixes with rain, it can create an acidic compound that weakens metal and damages the paint.
Over time, this can lead to rust, particularly on the car’s underbody where dirt and moisture can accumulate. Beyond the physical harm, dirt and grime make a car look older and poorly maintained. Persistent dirt can also stain the paint, leading to a dull finish that’s difficult to restore.
This is why proper classic car maintenance, or maintenance for any type of car, usually starts with keeping the car clean.
You can fight against the buildup of dust, dirt, and grime using cotton chenille towels, sheepskin washing mitts, and soft-bristled toothbrushes.
Regular Fluid Checks
Just like our bodies need water to function, your classic car needs its fluids to function. This means regularly checking the fluids helps your car operate smoothly. The fluids that are critical to maintaining your car’s performance include:
- Engine oil
- Transmission fluid
- Brake fluid
- Coolant
It is possible to do these fluid checks yourself if you have enough knowledge of classic cars and how they work, but if you do not, it is safer to get a professional to handle them. A seemingly harmless mistake like filling up your car with an incorrect amount of fluids could lead to issues like overheating, leaks, and damage to the car’s transmission.
The average cost of having a professional perform fluid checks for your car can vary depending on the service provider and the specific checks included. However, for a basic idea, you might expect to pay anywhere from $25 to $95 for fluid checks.
Inspecting and Maintaining Tires
Good tires are critical for the safe/smooth operation of the car. On average, tires need to be replaced every six years (or when they show signs of aging or deterioration–whichever comes first).
Also, remember to regularly check the tire pressure, ensuring it’s at the recommended level between 30 and 35 psi to prevent increased wear and tear. If you plan to store your car for a prolonged period, increase the tire pressure using an air pump by about 3 psi to prevent flat spots.
Upholstery Preservation
The upholstery in a classic car’s interior is like its skin. It needs regular care and attention to keep it looking its best. Gentle cleaning with soft brushes and the right type of conditioner is crucial to maintaining its pristine condition. (and don’t forget to choose a conditioner that offers UV protection). This will safeguard your classic car’s seats from the aging and fading effects of sunlight exposure. Leather conditioners like Chemical Guys are top-rated and have been said to provide the best results.
Dashboard and Trim Maintenance
Keeping the dashboard and trim clean and well-maintained enhances your car’s interior appeal. For best results, choose your cleaning products/protectants according to your vehicle’s specific dashboard to fully protect against sun damage and fading.
Protectants Car Guys should be applied to these parts to prevent future wear and damage caused by exposure to sunlight (and even human contact). Throughout the day, substances like natural oils, lotions, and other chemicals can collect on your hands and transfer to your car’s surfaces–leading to deterioration or discoloration over time.
Protecting Against Sun Damage
Prolonged sun exposure can cause upholstery to crack and fade, especially if the seats are made of leather or vinyl.
For maximum protection, use a car cover, install a sunshade on the windshield and windows, and apply UV-blocking treatments to the upholstery. Note that a car cover will cost you around $90, while you may spend less than $15 on sunshades.
Seasonal Maintenance Considerations
Different seasons bring with them different challenges for older cars. If it’s your first classic car, you’ll need to learn how to navigate these seasonal changes.
Spring and Summer Care
For example, heat can cause the air inside tires to expand, potentially leading to overinflation.
Also, classic cars are more prone to overheating because they often lack the efficient cooling systems found in modern vehicles. The relentless summer heat can push a car’s engine to its limits, leading to potential damage and even engine failure.
To prevent some of these issues, you can follow some of these steps:
- Inspect and replace belts and hoses if they show signs of wear and tear.
- Check the tire pressure and look for flat spots, sufficient tread, and signs of drying out or cracking.
- Test the brakes to ensure they function safely.
- Check all external lights, including brake lights, turn signals, headlights, and running lights, for any burned-out bulbs.
Fall and Winter Preparation
With the arrival of fall and the impending winter, your classic car will require a different level of car due to low temperatures and high risk of moisture exposure (snow, rain, sleet, etc.) If you want to avoid rust, mechanical problems, or tire malfunctions, follow these steps:
- Ensure that all rubber components, such as hoses and belts, are in good condition to prevent hardening and cracking due to low temperatures.
- Add antifreeze to the cooling system to protect the engine from freezing temperatures.
- You should also inspect and maintain the underbody’s anti-corrosion protection to prevent salt-induced erosion, which is common in winter.
- And remember to keep the battery fully charged. These measures will ensure your classic car is ready to brave the cold months ahead.
- If you’re not planning to drive your classic car for an extended period during winter, proper storage is crucial.
Before You Go
An important part of classic car maintenance is storage, and when it comes to storing your classic car, security is a top priority. After all, you wouldn’t want your precious vehicle to fall into the wrong hands, would you?
We have said that storing your classic car properly is an important aspect of maintaining it. But what happens when you don’t have a garage of your own? It gets dicey, right?
Well, not really. With Neighbor, a peer-to-peer Car storage marketplace, you’ll find Car storage options in your very own neighborhood (and all 50 states)–at prices 50% lower than traditional storage options. Find listings (from pre-screened hosts) nearest you!
Frequently Asked Questions
How often should I drive my classic car?
You should drive your classic car regularly, at least once a month, to maintain its smooth operation.
What is the best way to store a classic car?
The best way to store a classic car is in a climate-controlled storage facility with robust security measures. It ensures protection from environmental damage and theft.
