After a wet spring, the warm weather has finally arrived! Have you taken your classic car out yet? If not, it’s time to remove the dusty cover and fire it up for its first drive of the year. But before you hit the road, in addition to taking a few minutes to review your classic car insurance coverage, you should perform a few essential maintenance checks to ensure your classic car is in top shape.
Review Your Classic Car Insurance Coverage
We do not advise our clients to remove coverage in the winter, but if you choose to do so, it is vital to call your insurance agent to review your coverage before taking your car out. Many specialty companies we work with insure cars on an agreed-value basis. This means the car is insured for the value stated on the policy. It’s always good to review the market value of your collector car annually and check to see what your car is worth. The last thing you want is your pride and joy to be underinsured.
Essential Maintenance Tips for Classic Cars
Now is a great time to catch up on your car’s maintenance. Use these warm days to get ahead of the game. Here is a list of things to check:
- Check the coolant level.
- Change the oil and oil filter.
- Check the transmission oil.
- Check the brake fluid.
- If your car has power steering, check the power steering fluid.
- Check the belts for cracks and other imperfections.
- Check the radiator hoses for cracks.
- Clean or replace the spark plugs.
- Check the tire pressures (don’t forget the spare!).
- Inspect the engine bay for debris from mice or other critters.
If your car has an electric fuel pump, turn the key one notch and let it click. This action will prime the fuel system and fill up the carburetors. It’s also a good time to check for fuel leaks.
Safety First: Essential Checks Before Driving
- Ensure you have a fire extinguisher in the car.
- Check the inspection sticker and registration to ensure both are active.
Start Your Classic Car with Confidence
Let the car run for a couple of minutes as you look over the engine. Check again for leaks and allow the car to warm up. If you discover a problem that you are not sure how to fix, look for a specialized shop to help you.
Now you are ready for the best time of the year! Enjoy the summer season and get out on the roads with your classic car. Speaking of… don’t forget to register and attend Cars and Coffee at the Larz Anderson Auto Museum on June 8th!
For more tips and personalized insurance coverage for your classic car, contact CAV Insurance today!