Bringing your classic car out of storage

The days are getting longer, and the temperature is rising. It’s time to get your classic car ready for spring.

But if your classic car has been in storage or used infrequently during the winter months, it’s worth doing a few checks to ensure everything runs smoothly.

Charge your battery

The first thing to check is the strength of the battery. Batteries lose power in cold temperatures and when the car hasn’t been driven regularly.

You may need to charge your battery manually before you attempt to start the car.

Check your tyres

If the car has been standing for a long time, tyre pressure can become low. You may need to pump up the tyres before you hit the road.

Also, check that the tread is legal and that there are no bulges or cracks as tyres can still deteriorate when not in use.

Test your brakes

Damp conditions can affect the condition of brakes, and water and air in the system will make them spongy and less responsive. Plus, brake fluid can become contaminated with dirt and moisture. Adding fresh brake fluid will help improve braking.

Bleeding brakes removes air from the master cylinder, brake lines, callipers and wheel cylinders. Brakes should be bled every couple of years. If yours are not performing as well as they should, book your car in for a brake check.

Clean and wax the exterior

As well as the internal workings of the car, a spring clean of the exterior will do wonders for your paintwork. Grime and dirt can build up even when a car is in storage, while moisture and air can cause iron and steel corrosion.

As well as cleaning your car, waxing the paintwork will help protect it from the elements. Reapply wax every few months to protect the paintwork from the weather and dirt build-up.

Moisture in the air will also cause damage to fabric and leather interiors. Check for mould and insect infestations and use appropriate products to cleanse and dry the materials.

Change your oil

Changing the oil and filter will help pep up your car if it’s been out of use for a while. Once you’ve changed the oil, start the engine and let the fresh oil circulate.

New oil will help to protect elements in your car from corrosion. Injecting grease into fittings such as wheel bearings, suspension and steering will also help to ensure things run smoothly.

Book in a service

The best way to ensure your car is roadworthy is to book it in for a service. That way, everything from the battery to the braking system will be thoroughly inspected.

During a service, any issues can be identified and rectified before they turn into bigger – and more expensive – problems.

After a comprehensive service, your classic car will be ready to hit the road and should be a dream to drive.

For more tips, read It’s time to bring your classic car out of lockdown and Winter care for classic cars.

Book your classic car in for some pampering at your friendly local garage

Foster & Heanes offers car servicing, maintenance and repair for all makes and models of vehicles, including classic and vintage cars. We can arrange free collection and delivery if you live near our Fleet or Dogmersfield service centres.