There’s many aesthetic and lifestyle benefits to driving a classic car – however, these older car models run with the risk of different difficult breakdowns. It’s essential that you only drive a car when prepared for the chances of a breakdown – and classic cars require a different set of preparation tactics as compared to newer cars. Here’s a guide to preventing classic car breakdowns, as prepared by the towing experts here at Towing Chicago.
Tuning Up
We recommend getting periodic car tune-ups to prevent classic car breakdowns. Make sure that your fuel system is working properly, and that air filters are clear and not clogged. The car’s oil and oil filter should be verified to be working properly, along with the car’s spark plug (which should be free of any strange oil or carbon stains.)
Tire Pressure
Make sure that your tires have proper pressure, as incorrect tire pressure wears down on your car. When classic cars have remained in storage for an extended amount of time, tires need to be inspected for flat spots before getting back on the road. Any worn out, cracking, or uneven tires should be replaced – and the spare tire’s pressure needs to be checked too!
Checking for Wearing Out Rubber
All rubber seals, gaskets, and belts need to be at proper levels of condition – any cracked or worn down rubber needs to be replaced. Trust us, you don’t want to have to deal with a broken belt replacement while on the highway.
Brake Checking
Make sure you have the proper level of fluid in the master brake cylinder, and that all of your car’s wheels are not leaking brake fluid. Consider getting your brake lines and brake pads checked for any issues, as these aren’t inspected too often.
Cooling System Analysis
Ensure that your car’s engine is running on the cool side; we advise you to flush the car’s cooling system, and refill it with fresh fluid. Ensure that the radiator cap fits snugly and securely, and that there’s no garbage or residue in the radiator pads.
Short Road Testing
Before embarking on a trip in your classic car, take it on a short road test, driving on highways and city streets in order to see how the car’s driving fares in different driving conditions. This gives you an idea of it’s condition, and what features need to be inspected and tweaked if necessary. This helps mitigate the risks of sudden classic car breakdowns while on the road.
If your classic car does break down, reach out to the roadside assistance experts here at Towing Chicago for instant assistance – on-the-spot, and directly sent to your location.