As the springtime sunshine appears overhead, you’re likely dying to run out to the garage and fire up your classic car. After months of sitting, however, your car could have a few things to tend to before you can hit the open road.
Fortunately, you can get all that sorted out and head out on your way real soon by following all the vehicle inspection steps in this classic car checklist.
Start with Fluids, Belts, and Hoses
If your car has been sitting for over three months since its last oil change, it’s time to put on a new filter and refresh the fluid. Beyond that, make sure to check the antifreeze level and concentration plus verify it’s still the right color and just as translucent as before.
Other fluids to check at this time include:
- Brakes
- Power steering
- Windshield washer
When you bring your car into your trusted Hamptons NY auto repair shop, you can have them check the differential fluid, too.
Then, take a look at the hoses and belts to make sure they are in great condition. Look for signs of wear and tear or damage plus feel them to make sure they’re not too soft and squishy nor hard and brittle.
Check for Signs of Electrical Gremlins
As you take a long look around the engine compartment, watch for any wires that look corroded, brittle, or otherwise damaged. Also, check for loose wiring that could come into contact with hot or moving parts. Before you move onto the next step, check your battery water level and terminals.
Inspect the Fuel System
Since leaking fuel can quickly start a fire that could take out your classic car, make sure to inspect the fuel system from end to end. Plan to replace any hoses that seem to be damaged or dry rotted. Check the throttle linkage for signs of binding and consider cleaning the carb or throttle body.
Fire Up the Engine
With your car in an open area, fire up the engine and let it idle long enough to get up to operating temperature. You can tell that’s happened by checking the hose to see when the thermostat opens.
After that, check the transmission fluid level, and then shut it back off for another inspection. Look over all the prior areas once again for signs of leaking fluid and other problems.
Look Over the Tires, Lights, and Chassis
Before you can take your classic car out on a test drive, you’ll want to inspect the condition of your tires, torque the lug nuts, and make sure all your lights work. Also, think about lubing the chassis and looking it over for any issues. Then, move the steering wheel side to side to check for problems with the steering and suspension.
Check Brake Function
With all that done, you can start up your car once again and settle in the driver’s seat. Pump the brakes to make sure you have pressure and let your car roll just a bit in the driveway. Hit the brakes to confirm they bring you to a stop without the pedal going to the floor or any other signs of bad brakes.
If that feels good, you can ease out onto the road and check the brakes once again before you bring it up to speed. Once you confirm all is well, you can go out on a test drive along your favorite route.
Need Classic Car Repair and Service? Call Our Hamptons NY Auto Repair Shop
While following your classic car checklist, write down any problems you notice, so you can have your trusted Hamptons NY auto techs take a look. Then, give our team at Bock Auto a call at 631-267-5631 to schedule your visit.
Our team is always here to answer all your questions and handle all your classic car maintenance and repair needs. We specialize in classic car repair and service to help keep these phenomenal rides running and driving their best. So, please feel free to reach out any time you need our service and support.
