Tips for Looking After Your Classic Car

A Guide to Keeping Your Classic Car Looking Good for Longer

If you own a classic car, it can often feel like you are fighting many battles all at once. From the weather to time itself, several factors can deteriorate the appearance of your classic vehicle. This means that you have to stay on top of your game if you want to keep your car looking good.

Fortunately, this may not take as much work as you would imagine. As long as you follow certain guidelines, you should find it relatively easy to keep your beautiful vehicle in top-notch condition. On this note, here are all the ways you can maintain the appearance of your classic car:

Restore the Paint Job

If you find that the paint on your car has faded, your first step is to ensure that it is restored. Now, technically, you can restore the paint yourself. You will have to start by removing the layer of built-up oxidation with the help of detailing clay. Then, follow this up by polishing it well.

However, you should keep in mind that classic cars can have rather delicate surfaces that need to be treated gently. Thus, if you aren't careful, you may end up doing more damage than good. There is also the fact that the paint may be too faded or chipped for you to restore it by yourself.

It is a much better idea to have a professional handle it. They have the proper tools and skills to restore the paint and do a thorough job. And, if it does need to be repainted, they will be able to match the color perfectly. So, when in doubt, hand over your classic car to the experts.

Keep It Protected

As mentioned, the elements can do quite a number on your car’s appearance. In fact, leaving it outside, uncovered can mar your vehicle’s surface quite a bit. This is why you need to take the appropriate steps to protect it.

First, start parking your car under a covered surface. Keeping it in a garage is the best as you will be able to fully protect it from any kind of weather damage. Not to mention, you reduce the risk of anything putting a dent on the surface as well.

If you do need to leave your car outside – even for a short period – get into the habit of covering it with a car cover. These are often weatherproof to a certain degree and will help to keep sunlight, grime, and debris off of your car. Furthermore, it can prevent bird droppings from landing on the surface when you park under trees.

Wash It Carefully

Even if your car spends most of its time covered, it is going to need to be washed. If you drive it around, it needs to be cleaned even more regularly. Don’t wait for dirt and grime to pile up on the surface – wash it whenever you notice the car getting even a little dusty or dirty.

There is some contention about whether or not you should take your classic car to a carwash. Yes, some professional services use gently cleaning agents and utensils. However, it can be difficult to locate these businesses and even then you can never really be sure how careful they are.

This is why it may be better if you wash your car yourself. Nevertheless, you still need to use soft, microfiber cloths and the gentlest detergent that you can find. If possible, look for eco-friendly brands as they are quite mild.

You should always start washing your car from the top and work your way down. Leave the wheels for last but make sure that they are thoroughly cleaned as well. Always check that the surface has been thoroughly rinsed and that there are no signs of soap suds, bubbles, or any kind of residue.

It is important to wipe down and dry your car thoroughly. Once again, begin at the top and then move downwards. Whenever the towel becomes damp, swap it out for a clean, dry one. Make sure that you get any water that may have flown into crevices as well. This attention to detail can help to prevent your car from rusting.

Finish It Off with Wax

If you think wax is unnecessary, think again! What most people don’t realize is that the best car waxes aren't just about looks, they offer protection as well. They form a protective layer on top of your car paint and prevent it from oxidizing. This keeps the paint intact for longer.

At the same time, the wax will take the brunt of any dirt, grime, or debris that settles on the surface of your car. In this way, your car paint job is less likely to be affected. Therefore, you won’t need to have it retouched or repainted regularly.

There is also the fact that wax can make your classic car shine and help it to regain some of its former glory. So, if you want to show off your vehicle, you have to make it a point to apply a layer of wax whenever it is needed. You can guarantee that it will be well worth your effort.

Be a Careful Driver

Yes, this is an important part of keeping your car in excellent condition. When you drive carefully, you reduce the risk of getting into an accident or scraping your vehicle against another object. Naturally, this cuts down on the chances of scrapes, scratches, and dents.

Similarly, you should be careful about where you park your car. Avoid crowded or tight spaces as there is a chance that someone may swipe past your car when trying to maneuver out of a spot. Instead, pick a wide-open space.

These are the top tips that you need to keep your classic car looking good for longer. Thus, you should make it a point to practice them every day. You will be surprised at how much of a difference this makes.

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