A Guide To Spring Cleaning Your Classic Car - News

April is here, and after likely being idle during winter, it's essential to make sure your classic car is in the best condition before taking it out for a drive.

These beauties have withstood the test of time, but even they need a little bit more TLC when compared to more modern day cars, to help make them show off their finer qualities.

In this blog, we will advise you on how to go about preparing your classic car for the incoming better weather so that you can truly show it off in all its glory.

• Checking For Rust

Rust is one of the biggest enemies of classic cars, and it can cause significant damage if left unchecked. Therefore, it's essential to check for it regularly, especially after the cold winter months. The key areas where classic cars may suffer from rust are around the wheel arches, door sills, and underneath the car.

To check, use a torch to inspect the bodywork and undercarriage of your car. Look for any areas where the paintwork has bubbled or flaked away. These are the tell-tale signs you're looking for, and you need to address them as soon as possible before they start spreading and cause further damage.

To prevent the spread, you can sand down the affected area, apply a rust inhibitor, and repaint the area.

• Inspecting The Cooling System

Classic cars may overheat more easily than modern cars, especially in the incoming warmer weather. Therefore, it's essential to inspect your car's cooling system before driving it in warmer temperatures.

The most common problem with the cooling system is leaks, so you need to check for any signs of pools of coolant under the car or around the engine bay.

Once done, check the level of coolant in the radiator and top it up if necessary. Also, check the condition of the hoses and belts that connect to the cooling system. Replace any worn-out parts to prevent a potential breakdown when out on the road.

• Checking The Brakes

This one is one of the more obvious ones, but we felt compelled to include it due to classic cars generally not having as many safety mechanisms on them as their more modern brothers and sisters.

It's imperative to check the brakes on a classic car, especially if it has been sitting idle for three to six months. Brake components can wear out over time, so inspect them regularly to ensure your car can stop safely.

Check the brake fluid level in the reservoir, topping it up as required. Take a look at the brake pads and shoes for wear and replace them if they are looking worn out. As above, check the brake hoses for cracks or damage, and replace them if needed.

• Inspecting The Fuel System

Fuel system problems are common in classic cars, especially if they have carburettors or other outdated fuel systems. Check your fuel system for leaks and make sure all the connections are secure.

The most common problem with the fuel system is a clogged fuel filter. If you spot this issue, replace the fuel filter to improve the car's performance. Don't forget to check the condition of those fuel lines as well.

Fuel only has a shelf life of around six months and if your car has been sitting there for too long, you'll want to get rid of it before pumping it through the engine.

• Cleaning Your Car

All of the hard work is nearly done so now we get to the part most people enjoy. It's time to clean it all up for that perfect pristine finish.

Start by washing the exterior with a high-quality car shampoo and a soft sponge. Pay attention to all the nooks and crannies, including the wheels and tyres, and rinse everything off with a hose.

Once the car is dry, apply a coat of wax to protect the paintwork. This will help prevent damage from UV rays and other environmental factors.

Finally, polish the chrome and trim to give your car a brilliant shine that will help it turn heads as you coast through those quaint chocolate box villages.

Preparing your classic car for the finer weather requires delicate care and attention to detail. However, if you don't own your own classic car and want to skip all the hard work to enjoy the experience of driving a classic car in perfect condition, consider booking a Classic Car Driving Experience through dates on our regularly updated Classic Car Experiences Calendar, or through purchase of our open Gift Vouchers at TrackDays.co.uk.