Care and Storage of Vintage Cars

Car enthusiasts often flock to vintage cars for collection, leisure, buying and selling or hobby. Vintage cars can generally be defined as cars made between the years of 1919 and 1925. Details found in these cars include well-polished chrome and brass detailing in both the interior and exterior of the car.

Taking care of vintage cars is very like taking care of other vehicles you might store such as RV’s in that it includes attention to detail, time and care to keep your vintage car in tip-top shape!

If you’re collection and storing antique cars here is a list to get you started:

• Be prepared.  Make a list of supplies and tools you will need for the care of your car including: quality cleaners, specialty upholstery and protectant treatments. Keep items such as cloth cotton / car rags, jack stands, WD-40, a plastic drop cloth, tire gauge, general repair tools, extension cords, etc.
• Remove all trash and excess items from the interior of the car.
• Roll up all windows and make sure there is no opening and the windows are airtight to keep bugs and dust away.
• Remove the windshield wipers, clean separately and place enclose in light cotton cloth.
• Wipe off the dashboard, steering wheel, and other surfaces with an appropriate cleaner for your type of car.
• Condition all leather with the appropriate condition.
• Check floors and carpet for any spots – if spots are present treat with a spot cleaner.
• Wash the exterior.  To maintain a damage-free car it might be the best idea to hand wash the car yourself.  This way you can also give it the extra shine and level of cleanliness you need.
• Slightly over-inflate tires and check the pressure with a tire gauge. This will prevent the tires from deflating and leaving flat spots over time.
• Remove the car battery and store on a wooden block.
• Thoroughly wash all mirrors and glass surfaces.
• If you have a convertible top, make sure the cover is properly installed and dust free.
• Perform all need maintenance including preventative maintenance on the engine and make sure it is in proper order.
• Have the oil and filter changed to avoid grease and acid build up.
• Drive the car for a few miles after changing the oil to get it flowing and avoid future build up.
• Check all fluids and drain any needed ones for long-term storage.
• Make sure to check on your car at least once a month.
• INSURE your items when storing.  Personal storage insurance is an easy and affordable way to protect the value of your precious items.  It is the smart thing to do.  You can find information about this with the local manager or on Keylockstorage.com