There’s nothing better than taking a Sunday drive in your classic car, then carefully storing it until the next chance of beautiful weather. While this is what most classic car owners do, who’s to say you can’t use your classic car as a daily driver? If you have found a classic car and you want to drive it daily, then you should! However, there are some factors that you need to consider. Learn how to make a classic car a daily driver:
Classic Car Maintenance Check
Several things will determine a car’s safety- the year, the mileage, and the past upkeep of the vehicle. When changing your classic into a daily driver, you’ll need to do a full maintenance check, including replacing or restoring some vital parts:
- Change oil, plugs & all filters.
- Replace the fan belt.
- Recondition the starter and alternator.
- Replace the battery.
- Replace the coolant.
- Replace the thermostat.
- Replace radiator hoses.
- Change transmission oil and filter.
- Replace the timing belt.
- Replace shocks, mounts, and springs.
- Replace the tires and perform an alignment.
- Check exhaust.
- Replace the fuel pump.
- Replace power steering fluid.
- Use lube on window rails.
- Replace rotors/drums.
- Replace wheel cylinders.
- Check/ replace brake lines.
- Replace pads/shoes.
- Replace brake fluid.
Weather Issues
Depending on the year of your car, it’s likely to lack the same safety features that modern cars have. Therefore, it’s essential to be mindful of weather issues before driving. Whether you live in a rainy climate, one with harsh winters, or a scorching desert, weatherproofing your car is essential.
Heat
Most classic car owners fail to consider the adverse effects of heat and sun on their classic car. However, consistent exposure to direct sunlight can cause paint to fade. When possible, either park in a covered spot or cover your vehicle.
Heat can also damage tires, so it’s essential to check the wear and tear and air pressure to avoid a possible blowout.
Rain
If you live in a rainy climate, rust is likely to form on your vehicle. However, by ensuring that any exposed metal on the car is covered and treated, you can hopefully avoid rust.
In addition, parking in a covered area will lessen the risk of rust.
Cold
If you live in a harsh winter climate, ensure that your vehicle has antifreeze, wiper fluid, and proper winter tires.
In colder climates, salt is applied on the roads to avoid cars skidding on the ice. However, this road salt can corrode any exposed metal.
To avoid corrosion, wash or detail your car thoroughly, emphasizing the exposed metal work. In addition, waxing your vehicle will provide an extra layer of protection.
Impact on Value
While some view classic cars as an investment, others find great joy in using them.
If you plan to increase the value of your car or at least maintain it, using it as a daily driver may not be the best choice. Daily driving will cause wear and tear on your vehicle that otherwise wouldn’t happen in storage. In addition to wear and tear, most classic car collectors tend to prefer low-mileage vehicles.
If you are looking to restore your classic car to a daily driver, we can help you. We have vast experience in the restoration of classic cars, including a 1962 Impala SS Convertible, a 1970 Chevelle, a 1979 Volkswagen Bus, and a 1964 Malibu. From detailing to collision repair and complete restoration, our team will get you back on the road with a beautiful vehicle as soon as possible. Not only will we help you with the insurance process, but we’ll provide a fast estimate and assist you with a rental car.
