Wheeler Dealers presenter Mike Brewer has previously issued a simple warning to every classic car owner in the UK. The host of the iconic classic car restoration series told drivers with the keys to an historic vehicle to just “use it”. He suggested owners who are too precious with their old vehicles and store them away could actually be doing damage to their beloved model.
Cars sitting around not being used can become damaged over time with “decay” and “rust” a major worry. Instead, owners have been told to start up their classics and get out on the open roads as often as they could to keep the components ticking over.
Speaking to The Telegraph, Mike said: “Use it. They’re machines. If they sit there, they decay.
“It’s simple things, like if you don’t open and close the door on any car for a long period, the rubber door seals simply dry out, become brittle, your car leaks, then you end up with rust inside.
“As soon as you park a car and walk away from it for a month or two, something inevitably goes wrong.”
Key components can also deteriorate due to inactivity which could be a blow to motorists desperate to use their cars as the weather improves.
Problems such as a drained battery, tyre flat spots, fuel degradation and seal damage are all possible if left unattended.
Historic vehicle experts at Footman James also previously argued that getting behind the wheel was the “best way” to preserve classic models.
However, they suggested owners should switch on their ignition and leave it running for at least half an hour before pulling away.
This will help the car’s vital components to get properly warmed up after a long time sitting idle.
They added: “By starting and running the engine, driving off and using all the components – such as brakes, transmission, steering, suspension… the list goes on – everything is kept in good working order.
“Unless properly stored, it’s recommended that you not just start, but drive your classic at least once a month, and ideally twice or more.
“This keeps oil running around systems, rubber from perishing, and seals tight, minimising leaks.”
