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We often fall in love with a first car—or a dream car. And once we have that set of wheels, we do what we can to defend it against time and the elements. But what if that dream car is a classic and that fight against time goes back decades?
Keeping a vintage car in top condition can be a challenge—how much so depends on your car’s pedigree. Manufacturing improvements over the years have made today’s vehicles more reliable and maintenance-free than yesterday’s cars, which need special treatment by comparison.
Whether you own a vintage auto (manufactured between 1919 and 1930), a classic car (20 or more years old*) or something newer, you’ll need to consider several factors: restoration, maintenance and cleaning, storage, and use. For each of these factors, consider these care tips.
When restoring a vintage or classic car, the goal is not to upgrade but rather to keep it as close to original as possible.
Classic cars may need parts refinished to achieve period-correct finishes and textures. Vintage cars may need parts fabricated. Machine work, sheet metal and casting molds can create any part needed, including the chassis, suspension and interior hard parts. If your car needs restoration work, it’s a good idea to have it done professionally (not just from a car enthusiast) to preserve its value.
Repairs can be expensive, and regular maintenance can help identify issues and contaminants before they turn into bigger problems.
It’s vital to keep the right kinds and amounts of fluids in your car. Consider replacing the brake fluid once a year to maintain proper brake function.
Clean the car’s exterior to prevent rust and corrosion. Use a metal polish designed specifically for your car’s chrome to protect it and keep it shining. After any car wash, including a hand wash, dry even the tiniest crevices of the car to prevent rust and remove the grime, and always make sure to use a clean high quality microfiber towel or wash mitt. You can also use a reputable auto detailing service.
If you feel any kind of texture on the painted surfaces of your car, it’s likely pollutants adhering to the car’s paint. When wash services and waxing don’t remove them, try using a special product called detailing clay. Once the pollutants and build up are removed, give the car a thorough waxing.
Cold temperatures, humidity and direct sunlight can lead to all kinds of problems—the cold can cause mechanical problems, the sun can fade the paint, and humidity can cause rust. Avoid all these problems by preserving your vehicle in a storage garage. The best space to keep your valuable automobile is one that’s dry, ventilated, insulated and temperature regulated.
It may seem counterintuitive to keeping a car “like new,” but cars need to be driven to stay in good working order. A car left in the garage can have its seals and rubber components dry out, causing leaks. Drive your vehicle on a safe, smooth road near your home to keep the engine running.
Classic cars are full of personality, so answer these questions about yourself to see which car shares your traits.
Car Maintenance
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‡Offer valid through 4/30/2025. Offer valid for Classic/Basic Memberships only. Pricing valid at member join only. Offer excludes Motorcycle coverage. Payment of full AAA Membership dues is required upon renewal. Offers, terms, conditions and restrictions apply and are subject to change without notice. Not combinable with any other offer. Offer not valid in FL, GA, MI or PR. A member can add one eligible family member for free for up to one year. Additional Associates are half price. Associate memberships are available to the Primary member’s spouse, one other adult living in the household, and their children living at the same residence or away at school. Associate members must have the same type of membership as their Primary member, with the exception of Motorcycle. Associate membership expires on the renewal date of Primary member.
Upon activation and with proper identification, AAA will provide regular AAA services and full privileges for the new member. Roadside benefits begin three days after payment of dues. Some restrictions apply. Roadside assistance is provided by independent facilities contracted by AAA. Coverage in taxis, limousines and other ride-sharing conveyances is excluded. Visit AAA.com/MemberHandbook for details about member benefits, including any limitations or restrictions. Offers, terms, conditions and policies are subject to change without notice. Savings partners subject to change. Source: 2023 AAA U.S. Market Track national surveys. Includes service vehicles owned by clubs and service vehicles owned by third parties under contract with AAA to provide services to AAA members. Taxes, fees & options excluded. Terms apply. Partners and offers are subject to change and restrictions apply. For a complete list of offers, visit us online at AAA.com/Save or your local AAA office.
