CLASSIC CAR HUB

Right then, let’s talk about getting your classic ready for the year ahead. Even though many older cars in the UK can be MOT exempt now, that does not mean you can simply ignore safety altogether. A yearly check still keeps you, your pride and joy, and your passengers on the safe side, and lets you enjoy the car without worrying that something important might fall off on the A27.

Before we begin, just a quick reminder that cars over forty years old can be MOT exempt if they are classed as a Vehicle of Historic Interest, and have not been heavily modified. But even if your car fits the bill, you are still legally responsible for making sure it is roadworthy. Insurance companies expect that too, so a voluntary MOT or at least a solid pre season inspection is well worth the effort.

Registration and Identification

Start with the simple bits. Make sure your number plates suit the year of the car, and are readable and securely fitted. Cars registered before 1973 can use the classic black and silver plates, which always look rather lovely. Check your VIN or chassis plate too, it needs to be present and easy to read, because there is nothing worse than hunting for a plate that is hiding behind a years worth of oily dust.

Steering and Suspension

The steering should move smoothly without odd clunks or too much play. Some classics have a bit of tolerance here, but anything excessive will make the car feel vague. If your car uses a steering box, try adjusting it so there is less free movement at the wheel. Have a look at the wheel bearings by rocking the wheel while the car is jacked up, too much movement means bearings need adjusting or replacing, which is usually straightforward. Give each corner a good bounce, the car should settle quickly without bouncing around like a nervous kangaroo.

Lighting and Electrics

Go round the car and check every light. Headlights, tail lights, indicators, hazard lights, number plate lamps, even semaphore indicators if your car has them. Make sure nothing flickers when it should not. The horn should work cleanly and loudly. If it sounds a bit lazy, clean the terminals or check the wiring, because a half hearted honk never helped anyone.

Bodywork and Structure

Rust is the eternal companion of classic car ownership. A bit of surface rust is rarely serious, but anything that compromises structural strength needs attention. Look closely at sills, floor pans, inner wings, bulkheads, suspension mounts, and seat belt anchorage points. On a separate chassis car, the body must be properly attached. On a monocoque car, the sills and floors carry much of the strength, so avoid any perforation. Also check for sharp edges around arches or panels, these are both dangerous and technically illegal, even for classics.

Doors, Bonnets and Boot Lids

Make sure all doors open from the inside and the outside. Check that the bonnet catch locks properly and releases without fuss. The same goes for the boot lid. A popping bonnet at 50 mph is no fun, trust me.

Brakes and Hydraulics

Brakes should feel strong and predictable. Jack up each wheel and check that nothing is binding. Look for leaks around brake cylinders, master cylinders, hoses, and calipers. If brake shoes or pads are soaked in fluid, they will need replacing. While you are under the bonnet, check the clutch master cylinder too, a small leak can quickly become a big headache.

Inspect brake and fuel pipes for corrosion or cracking. Flexible hoses should not balloon when the pedal is pressed.

Fuel System and Exhaust

Look along the fuel lines for splits or chafing. Make sure the exhaust is secure and not blowing. Once the engine is warm and off choke, the exhaust should be fairly clean. If you have blue smoke puffing out, it might be time to consider an engine refresh, even if you would rather not think about that right now.

Glass, Wipers and Visibility

Check the windscreen for chips, especially in the drivers line of sight. Many insurers offer repairs for free. Test the wipers and washers too, because smear rather than clear is not good on a wet road. Split or old blades are cheap to replace.

Tyres and Wheels

Tyres must have legal tread, but more importantly they should not be cracked or perished. Classic cars often spend long periods parked, which can age a tyre long before the tread wears. Make sure wheels are sound and properly tightened.

Final Thoughts

MOT or no MOT, a yearly check keeps your classic car healthy and enjoyable. It gives you confidence on the road and helps you spot little problems before they turn into wallet emptying disasters. And honestly, part of classic ownership is spending time with the car, listening to it, poking at things, and learning what feels right