Infographic

Classic Car Maintenance: Tips & Tricks for Preserving History

Share this Image On Your Site

Today’s car is more practical than ever, meeting safety standards and built with comfort in mind, yet even so, there’s nothing like a classic car. Whether it’s a ‘57 Chevy in sky blue or a rugged Mustang from the 1970s, these cars still catch the eye of the modern driver. But how do we preserve the quality of these historical machines? Here are a few basic tips & tricks for anyone interested in refurbishing an old classic.

1. Storage
1. If storing for an extended period of time, do the following:
1. Place in a dry, climate-controlled space
2. Place on a concrete floor
3. Keep the tank full - Empty tanks can gather moisture leading to mold
4. Disconnect the battery to prevent battery drain
2. Cleanliness
1. Do the following to keep your classic car from corrosion and rust:
1. Always clean the exterior, interior, and under the hood to prevent rust and corrosion. Dirt can cause heavy damage
2. Check for rust, particularly underneath the vehicle. Always wash underneath the car to help prevent corrosion
3. Check for pests - Sometimes rodents get into vehicles and die, leading to an unmistakable odor
3. Brakes
1. Check for the following signs of brake issues:
1. Fluid dripping underneath the car or discolored fluid
2. Squishy brakes when pressed - Requires flush
3. Old brake lines - Replace if unsure how old
4. Fluids
1. Do the following to ensure fluid levels are right:
1. Preflight check - Before you drive check oil, transmission, brake, power steering, and differential fluids
2. Always check under the car for leaks
5. Tires
1. Check for the following signs of old, worn out tires:
1. Dates - Tires generally last up to 6 years for classic cars. The older the tires, the more likely to cause issues
2. Tread
3. Tire pressure
6. Drive
1. Letting your classic car sit idle leads to unnecessary damage and corrosion. Keep your vehicle moving for the following benefits:
1. Keeps fluids moving
2. Realigns parts

References:

• https://www.progressive.com/answers/maintaining-and-storing-classic-cars/
• https://americancollectors.com/articles/classic-car-maintenance/
• https://www.volocars.com/auto-sales/news/classic-car-maintenance-tips