It’s time to bring your classic car out of lockdown!

If your classic car has been in lockdown, it may require some tender loving care before it’s ready to hit the road.

Here are some tips to help you get your treasured car back into action this spring.

Listen to the engine

First, see how the engine’s running. Give it a good warm up before you head out onto the road. Take it for a brief drive to see how the engine sounds. Make sure there are no unfamiliar noises coming from under the bonnet.

It’s helpful to start a car at least once a month to keep everything in working order. This may not have been possible – so now you are able to get the car out again, let the oil circulate through the engine.

Change the oil and grease

Fresh oil helps protect against corrosion. If your car has been off the road for some time, changing the oil and filter can help.

Once this has been done, start the engine and let the new oil circulate. At the same time, you could inject new grease into fittings, including wheel bearings, suspension and steering, and coat terminals with petroleum jelly.

Don’t forget door hinges, as these sometimes stick. A few drops of oil can help loosen them up.

Give your car a good clean

Moisture and air can cause iron and steel to rust, and damp will also damage fabric and leather.

Give your car a thorough clean inside and out and wax-polish the bodywork. Make sure the interior is completely dry and treat any damaged interior textiles. Examine fabric and wood for any insect infestations and use appropriate products to ensure the problem is eliminated.

Check tyre pressure

Check the pressure of your tyres. If your classic car has been out of use for some time, the pressure can become low.

Also, check that the tyre tread is road legal and inspect for any bulges or cracks in the rubber.

Make sure brakes are in good condition

Inspect and test your brakes, including the handbrake, to ensure they’re functioning correctly.

A damp atmosphere could affect the condition of your brakes. Water and air in the system can make them spongy and less responsive. Plus, old brake fluid can become contaminated with dirt and moisture.

You may need to bleed your brakes to remove air from the master cylinder, brake lines, callipers and wheel cylinders. On top of this, changing the brake fluid will improve braking quality.

Charge your battery

Charging the battery may be easier said than done if your classic car has been out of use for some time.

It’s difficult to keep a battery charged if the car has been off the road for a long time. Some classic car owners remove the battery so that it drains at a slower rate.

If your battery is dead, give us a call, and we can advise you on the best course of action.

Does your classic car need some TLC?

We know your classic car is a treasured possession. That’s why, at Foster & Heanes, we offer specialist services to help you take care of every aspect of its maintenance.

We offer car servicing, maintenance and repair for all makes and models of vehicles including classic and vintage cars. Free collection and delivery can be arranged if you live near our Fleet or Dogmersfield service centres.