Buying a classic car can be a labor of love. Auto enthusiasts who have decided to make this journey must consider these critical steps before putting the pedal to the medal.
Paying attention to the following considerations can save you a lot of time, heartache, and money.
Classic car parts can be harder to find
The truth is that most classic cars are going to need parts.
Here are some ideas on where to find these classic car parts. That way, your dig for buried treasure will be a fruitful one.
- Salvage yards such as Tear-A-Part are an excellent resource
- Forums specific to your intended chalked full of insider information
- Auto body shops with a history of carrying rare classic car parts
- Aftermarket part suppliers
How are your mechanical skills?
Honest self-reflection is paramount. When working with older vehicles, the challenges will not be the same as those of newer cars.
Although access to many mechanical items is generally easier, years of oil, rust, and dirt can complicate matters. Most classic car enthusiasts may feel obligated to shoulder the mechanical work themselves. Still, vintage car repairs aren’t for the faint of heart (nor the amateur who doesn’t know their way around a classic car). Should you decide to tackle the project at hand, you’ll need to keep your garage organized and prepare for the challenges ahead.
Rust is a deal-breaker
Few things are as complicated and costly as repairing rust.
Rarely is confronting rust as simple as scuffing a panel with a bit of sandpaper. Rust may be lurking out of sight (and out of mind), so a thorough inspection is in order. If you’re not sure what to look for, consider paying for an inspection at a trusted body shop.
Consider insurance options
Insurance is vital for any car you plan to have on the road.
Standard insurance policies may not cover the special needs of a vintage vehicle, which can spell disaster for a classic car owner. To avoid financial wreckage, ensure you’re covered in the case that you’re involved in a car accident. A good rate may not include considerations for the availability of parts and specialized repair processes that may be needed, so choose carefully and always read the fine print.
Where are you going to store it?
Your classic car is an investment and should be treated as such. Exposure to the elements can ruin the blood, sweat, and tears you’ve put into classic car maintenance. Therefore, an enclosed garage or shop is ideal.
Financing a classic car is a unique process
Fortunate enthusiasts may have a nest-egg set aside for their dream car. Many others may have to seek financing to make their dream come true. When that is the case, there are financial resources that can help.
Connections are important
Connecting with folks that have the same interests as you can make this journey enjoyable. For nearly any year make or model of classic car, there are clubs, forums or organizations–all gold mines of information.
Now the fun begins
With these insider tips slipped into your toolbelt, you can beam with pride as you manage the speed bumps of classic car ownership like a pro. Remember, the extra effort will be worth the final result. Envision yourself admiring your classic car in your driveway, and always congratulate yourself on a job well done.
