Wrenchers LLC in Detroit, Michigan, works with first-time classic car and vintage truck owners regularly. Our restoration and restomod professionals want to share 5 tips for first-time classic car owners. Some of these will also be relevant to long-time vintage car owners.
Vintage truck and car ownership is rewarding, but you may find there’s a learning curve if you’re a first-time classic car owner. You don’t want to be a trial-and-error owner, so we think you’ll appreciate these tips. Our advice is also a great refresher for long-time vintage car owners.
5 Tips For First-Time Classic Car Owners
- Under the hood. On a scale of 1 to 10, how knowledgeable are you about the inner workings of cars in general and vintage and classics specifically? If you are a classic car owner, you know that these babies require more loving attention than many modern cars. If you’re at the upper end of the mechanic scale and can perform routine maintenance on your classic truck, then go for it. If not, we urge you to not be tinkering under the hood. Find a mechanic who is knowledgeable about classics and put your car in their capable hands.
- Sourcing parts. When you own a classic car or truck, it’s inevitable that you will need to find replacement parts. When you buy your vintage vehicle, that is the time to start looking for sources for replacement parts. Don’t wait until the need is imminent and you’re feeling pressured to buy a part that you may not want or might not be able to truly afford.
- You’ll be part of a vintage vehicle community. Owners of classic cars know that when they become the owner of one, they are also granted entrance into that elite club of vintage car aficionados. The other vintage car owners you meet may also be great resources for mechanics and sources for parts.
- Set realistic goals. When you pick up a classic car that is in need of “some” restoration, be prepared for more restoration than you anticipated. When we get under the hood or behind the chassis, we sometimes find restoration items that can’t be seen until we take it apart. Restoring a vintage vehicle can be a costly hobby, but oh so worth it.
- Get out and drive. If you’ve bought a vintage truck or classic car, don’t just leave it in the garage and admire it. Get it out and get it on the road. You don’t have to plan a cross-country trip, but take it out for a Sunday drive. Attend classic car shows and show your vehicle off. You’ve put so much time and energy – and money – into the car, it is meant to be seen, appreciated and enjoyed.
Owning and driving a classic car or truck is a feeling that cannot be described unless you’ve been there. If you’re searching for your first vintage car or truck or want to talk about an upgrade to your current vintage vehicle, give us a call.
If you have any questions about a frame-off restoration or are looking for further insights for protecting your classic car or truck, give us a call or stop by our shop.
At Wrenchers LLC, we are classic, antique and hot rod enthusiasts, and that shows in the craftsmanship of our vehicle restorations. Whether you choose a full frame-off, traditional restoration or custom work for your vehicle, our experienced restoration professionals listen to you and work on your vehicle with the same care they take with their own. When your keys are handed over and you slide behind the wheel after your car has been restored, you will be hitting the road in the vehicle of your dreams.