Classic Car Checklist
What You Can Do at Home – and When to Call the Experts
Owning a classic car is a unique kind of joy - and responsibility. Whether you’ve got a garage full of vintage motors or one cherished weekend cruiser, keeping it in top shape takes more than the occasional polish. But don’t worry - it doesn’t all require a full workshop setup.
At The Vault Europe, we spend our days around classic vehicles, and we know exactly what it takes to keep them running smoothly and looking their best. So, we’ve put together this checklist to help you stay on top of the essentials. Some of these jobs are simple enough to do at home. Others? You’re better off letting professionals (like us!) handle them properly.
What You Can Do at Home
You don’t need a full service bay to keep your classic car healthy. These routine checks and tasks are perfect for owners who like to stay hands-on.
Keep an eye on fluids
Even if your car’s not seeing much road time, fluids still degrade. Oil can break down, brake fluid can absorb moisture, and old coolant can lose its effectiveness.
Here’s what to check regularly:
Engine oil – Check the level and condition. Even if the car’s barely run, oil changes are still recommended every 12 months.
Brake and clutch fluid – These absorb water over time, which can cause internal corrosion in the hydraulic system. This is one of the most commonly overlooked areas.
Coolant and gearbox oil – These don’t need changing as often, but it's worth inspecting hoses and levels regularly.
Pro tip: Use fluids specifically suited for older engines - they often have different additive packages compared to modern oils.
Battery care
Classics that sit for weeks or months between runs often suffer battery issues. Keep the terminals clean, check the voltage occasionally, and if your car lives in storage, a trickle charger is well worth the investment.
Tyres and visual checks
Look for:
Flat spots if the car’s been sitting
Cracks in the sidewalls
Uneven wear that could suggest alignment or suspension issues
Checking tyre pressures monthly is a small habit that makes a big difference.
Cleaning inside and out
Classic paint finishes often need more gentle care than modern ones. Use quality shampoo and soft cloths. Waxing a couple of times a year helps protect the paint - plus, it’s a great excuse to spend time with your car.
Inside, keep leather conditioned and dust off gauges and switches. Moisture traps in the cabin can help prevent musty smells, especially over winter.
When It’s Time to Bring in the Pros
Some jobs need specialist tools or experience - especially if you want to avoid causing more harm than good. This is where we at The Vault Europe can help.
Engine and mechanical work
Tuning a carburettor or setting ignition timing isn’t guesswork - it’s an art. Same with compression tests, valve clearances, or dealing with older fuelling systems. We have the right equipment and a team who’ve worked on everything from vintage Bentleys to air-cooled Porsches.
Brake and suspension servicing
Brakes on classic cars, particularly drum setups, need careful attention. We handle:
Fluid flushes
Brake line inspections
Suspension rebuilds
Bushing replacements
We also check for rust in areas that are hard to inspect without a lift.
Electrical and wiring issues
Let’s face it - vintage electrics are often a headache. If you’re dealing with flickering lights, charging problems, or a total no-start, we can help trace and fix the issue. We also offer full rewiring for cars where the original loom has seen better days.
Rust protection and storage prep
Rust is the classic car’s worst enemy. We offer:
Underbody cleaning and protective coatings
Wax injection in chassis cavities
Paintwork protection like ceramic coatings or polish sealing
And if your car’s going into hibernation for a while, we offer full storage prep packages, including:
Fluid check and top-up
Battery conditioning
Tyre rotation and engine exercise programs
Long-Term Classic Car Storage – Done Properly
At The Vault Europe, we’ve built our facility specifically for classic and collectible cars. Climate-controlled, secure, and designed with preservation in mind. Whether you’re storing over winter or year-round, we ensure your vehicle stays in top condition - so it’s ready to go when you are.
We also offer:
Collection and delivery
Maintenance plans during storage
Vehicle inspections and reporting
Final Thoughts
Caring for a classic car doesn’t need to be overwhelming. A few simple checks each month can go a long way - and for everything else, we’re here to help. Whether you need trusted storage, a pre-season service, or help diagnosing a tricky mechanical issue, we treat your car like it’s our own.
Have questions or want to book a service? Get in touch with the team at The Vault Europe Ltd - we’re here to keep your classic in perfect shape.