Classic cars need special attention — especially after the long-haul road trips and sun-soaked drives that come with the holiday season. If you're back to being a weekend warrior, it’s time to show your pride and joy a little love before tucking it away again. Post-season care isn’t just about keeping things clean — it’s about preserving your car’s value and performance long-term.
By Kevin Derrick – Classic Car Specialist & CEO of Creative Rides
While major services should always be left to the professionals, there are crucial maintenance routines that every classic owner should follow, especially if your car isn’t in regular use. It all starts with the basics — and that begins with a good wash.
Start With a Deep Clean
Before storing your car, give it a proper wash. That means the body, the undercarriage, and even under the bonnet. Use a mild detergent to clean the engine bay and make sure you remove any grime that could trap moisture or cause corrosion.
Once it’s clean, it’s time for wax. Waxing does more than just make the paint pop — it acts as a barrier against moisture, UV damage and rust. But don’t wax blindly. Look carefully for any signs of rust first. If you spot any, treat it with lubricant or rust inhibitor before sealing everything in with a good-quality wax.
Fluids and Fuel Matter
Every classic car owner should get into the habit of checking fluids regularly. That includes engine oil, brake fluid and coolant. It takes just a few minutes, but it makes a massive difference in keeping your vehicle running smoothly — especially when it's not used every day.
One mistake many owners make is parking the car with an almost-empty fuel tank. That’s a recipe for condensation, which can lead to fuel system issues. Always top up the tank after a drive, and consider adding a fuel stabilizer or corrosion-inhibiting additive if your car will be off the road for a while.
Don't Neglect Your Tyres
Tyres are often forgotten during long-term storage, but they’re one of the first things to suffer. If you leave a car sitting on underinflated tyres, they’ll flatten out or develop flat spots. Make sure they’re pumped up to factory specs — or even a little higher to account for slow deflation over time.
If your car’s going into deep storage for a month or longer, think about raising it onto jacks and removing the wheels entirely. Store the tyres flat in a dry, dark place to help preserve the rubber.
Smart Storage Makes All the Difference
Sunlight is the sworn enemy of classic cars. It fades paint, damages interiors, and encourages long-term wear. If you’re lucky enough to have a garage, use it. Ideally, it should be a windowless space — or at least one with blinds or covers to block the UV rays.
Even indoors, your car should be covered. A breathable, high-quality car cover will keep dust and moisture off the paint, without trapping humidity underneath.
Battery care is another key point. If you're not driving regularly, disconnect the battery to slow its discharge. Even better, hook it up to a trickle charger to maintain its health without overcharging.
For proper ventilation, crack the windows slightly to let the cabin breathe, and drop a couple of open boxes of baking soda or cornflour inside the car. It’s a simple but effective way to prevent odours and mildew.
Humidity Is the Silent Killer
Living near the coast? Moisture is your biggest threat. Invest in a dehumidifier for your garage to help reduce condensation. If the air’s damp, your car will eventually show it — usually in the form of surface rust, faded trim, or a musty interior. Avoid that by keeping the air dry and circulating.
A Little Weekly Ritual
Even if you're not taking your classic out for a drive, you should still spend time with it each week. Sit in the driver’s seat and depress the clutch and brake pedals to keep them moving freely. Cycle through the gears. Turn the steering wheel from lock to lock. These little motions keep the mechanical components from sticking or seizing over time.
Also, avoid using the handbrake when the car is parked for long periods — classic handbrake cables are notorious for seizing. Use wheel chocks instead.
Keep It Running, Keep It Valuable
Classic cars demand a little more effort than your daily driver — but they reward you tenfold. Whether it's the roar of a carb-fed engine, the smell of old leather, or the knowing looks from fellow petrolheads, these cars were built to be appreciated.
Maintaining your classic is about more than just pride. It's about protecting your investment, and keeping the joy alive every time you turn the key.
