Useful ways to prolong the life of classic cars
If you want your decades-old car to last a long time and always run smoothly, you should apply some of the following self-maintenance methods.
1. Keep your classic car clean
Keeping your classic car clean will not only keep it looking new and shiny, but will also help it last a long time.
Avoid using regular soap to clean your car as this can damage the paint. Instead, use a product specifically designed for cars both inside and outside.
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2. Treat rust-prone areas with lubricant
Rust is the worst enemy of metal. An old car that has been used for many years with metal parts is not immune to this. However, users can limit this situation by using lubricants to treat the parts of the car that are most susceptible to rust.
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3. Use good quality car covers
If for any reason you cannot store your car in a garage, always have a cover specifically designed for your vehicle available.
This item not only helps the car avoid scratches but also avoid the effects of sunlight. Because sunlight is the great enemy of car paint, ultraviolet rays will fade and peel the car paint. However, this should only be a temporary solution, with classic cars should be stored safely indoors if possible.
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4. Make sure there is always fuel in the gas tank
Try to avoid leaving your classic car unused for long periods of time. If it is going to be left unused for a long time, add some petrol/oil to the fuel tank.
JD Power warns that leaving your car's fuel tank empty for too long can damage your car's internal components and even cause oil condensation. However, fuel will deteriorate after about 30 days of non-use and can also affect your car, so make sure to drain the fuel regularly, or have a maintenance start-up.
5. Increase the durability of car paint with wax coating
Wax coating helps the car maintain its natural durability, adds a layer of protection to the car's paint and creates a glossy effect on the surface.
Accordingly, wax coating is a way to protect car paint with many advantages but the disadvantage is that it is not durable and will fade over time. Therefore, after a few months, you need to re-wax the car paint.
6. Periodically check coolant, water or brake fluid
Coolant and brake fluid are two indispensable components that help your car operate well and stably. Therefore, car users should regularly check the amount of coolant and brake fluid to promptly add or replace new ones.
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To check the brake fluid, the user needs to observe the oil level in the reservoir. For the car to operate well, the oil level should fall between the “Max” and “Min” marks. At the same time, the brake fluid should be replaced when the oil solution turns light yellow or moss green. |
7. Avoid leaving the vehicle stationary for long periods of time.
No matter how well you take care of your car, never forget to take it out for a drive every now and then. Leaving it idle for long periods of time can affect the mechanical parts of the car and accelerate the deterioration process.