5 Commandments for Maintaining & Storing Classic Cars

Classic cars require special maintenance and storing care to preserve their vintage appeal and avoid the corrosion of the original parts. Most classic car owners would agree that maintaining them is all part of the joy of owning one. For those who are unaware, the upkeep needed to protect the car can be challenging, especially without knowing how to look after it throughout the different seasons. Here are some straightforward tips on storing your car to help avoid corrosion and long-term storage impacting its performance.

Preparing the Classic Vehicle for the Driving Season

The warmer month among us is an excellent time to begin preparing your car for the new driving season. It is best to handle all the maintenance tasks that must be done before temperatures start to rise to enjoy all that the warmer weather has to offer for you and your vehicle. Spring preparation and summer driving tips for your car:

Wax

A clean, waxed paint job is much more protected from the elements. It is best to reapply wax every few months to block out grime, dirt, and weather.

Service

It is wise to make sure the vehicle has been thoroughly serviced (tire pressure, brake pads, etc.) before spring arrives or early in the season to know that the car is in good condition for your first drive out after it has been stored.

Keep it clean

It is advised to hose the undercarriage down after every drive, where salt and road dirt may lead to corrosion of untreated metal surfaces.

Recharge the battery

Car batteries can lose power in cold weather or when they haven't been used in a while. Consider charging the battery manually before spring so that your vehicle will start.

Where to Store a Classic Car

Most classic car owners store this prized possession up for the autumn and winter to avoid corrosion. Weather damage can significantly impact both the looks and performance and, therefore, also its value. Where the classic car is stored makes a huge difference in how it is preserved. The space must protect it from the weather, temperature extremes, moisture and is secure. A brick garage offers the best protection for a classic car as it keeps a stable temperature and moisture-free environment.

Lift and Cover

Even if it is in a garage, consider covering your car to help prevent condensation and keep an eye on the temperature of your garage. Be sure to only use a purpose-built car cover for your car's type. Otherwise, it could result in even more damage. You should also lift the car off the ground to protect the tires, wheels, and undercarriage from rain and moisture. Remember that you can benefit from having secured collector car insurance, as these vehicles can't remain in perfect condition forever.

Steps Before Storing a Classic Car

Before your car goes into hibernation, there are a few things to do to prepare it.

Check that the Space is Right for Your Car

The storage space should be clean, dry, and damp-free before parking your car.

Give the Car a Thorough Clean, Polish, and Wax

Make sure your car is completely free from dirt, salt, and moisture. Lubricate any rubber parts to stop them from perishing.

Open the Windows to Ensure Good Circulation

Allow fresh air to circulate by leaving the front windows slightly ajar to help prevent mold. Note that small critters can get in through the windows, so make sure there are no crumbs or dirt in the car to attract them.

Disconnect the Battery

Disconnect the batteries to preserve their charge.

Keep the Car Out of Direct Sunlight

If you have to store your car in a space exposed to direct sunlight, it is crucial to cover up the paintwork to prevent it from fading in the sun. Again, this should be a breathable cover that is made for your car.

Maintain a Classic Car in Storage

Classic cars must also be maintained regularly when they are in storage to ensure they remain in drivable condition. The vehicle should be maintained throughout this time by:

Checking the fluid levels regularly

Turning a car on when it is low on low on fluid can be damaging to the engine, so be sure to check the oil, coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid, and transmission fluid regularly.

Treating rust spots with a quality lubricant

Minor rust spots are common on classic cars, however, they can quickly become worse when they are ignored. While in storage, consider applying lubricant regularly so that the rust does not spread as quickly.

Running the engine every couple of weeks.

This will recharge the battery and allow fluids to circulate through the engine.

Cleaning it after every drive

If you do decide to take your car out for a ride in the winter, be sure to clean it afterward. Even on dry days, there is salt in the roads that can get on the undercarriage of your car and may lead to many issues if left unchecked. Check that the vehicle is fully dry before putting it back in storage.

About David G. Sayles Insurance Services

At David G. Sayles Insurance Services, we help our clients decide which of these options is best for them based on their current situation and risk factors. Contact us at 1-855-977-1842 or insureme@dsayles.mysites.io for a consultation!