Owning a vintage vehicle involves possessing a piece of history. From Aston Martin to Rolls Royce, these cars mark a special moment in time. If you own one, caring for it with time and effort is essential. What should be on your service checklist? Here are five ways to maintain a vintage vehicle.

1. Store It in a Garage
Your vintage vehicle’s maintenance starts with its location. Rain or shine, leave the car in a climate-controlled area to protect it. The weather could negatively impact your old automobile even if conditions don’t seem bad outside.

For example, winter temperatures require more time for engine warmups, thus accelerating wear and tear. Your car’s fluids are thicker in the frigid air due to increased viscosity, and the mechanical components endure more stress. Use your home’s garage or another location with humidity and temperature protection.

2. Check the Fluids
Like any vehicle, you should regularly monitor the fluid levels. These old cars still use brake fluid, transmission fluid and other necessary lubricants. However, your approach may change based on how often you drive the vintage vehicle.

Your automobile may be a collector car and not used for daily driving. If you leave it in the garage, base your oil checks off time instead of the miles driven. Whether conventional or synthetic, your inspections should occur at least twice annually.

3. Use the Correct Fuel
Filling your tank with petrol is simple, though vintage vehicles need an extra layer. These older fuel tanks need a lead additive, as most cars before the 1970s used this type. Incorporating the substance protects your petrol from typical unleaded fuel wear.

While the U.K. banned lead petrol in 1999, there is an exemption for vintage and classic car owners. The exception exists because you might not have another fuel option. If lead isn’t present in the vehicle, you risk valve seat recession and accelerated wear.

4. Learn From Vintage Car Owners
Vintage vehicle owners include themselves in tight-knit communities filled with learning opportunities. These car enthusiasts are happy to share stories about restoration and tell you what worked in their DIY projects. You could also learn about driving techniques and facts specific to your vehicle.

One way to find people in this niche is to attend car shows. For example, the Old Car Festival includes over 700 vehicles from 1900 to 1932. Visiting this automobile celebration lets you learn more about the Ford Model T or a 1925 Franklin sedan.

5. Wash and Prevent Rust
Your vintage vehicle deserves more tender loving care than the average car. Therefore, you should allocate more time for washing and rust prevention. Gently clean your vintage auto to avoid damaging a potentially sensitive exterior. For careful washing, use microfiber towels and pH-balanced car soaps.

Corrosion is another issue you should address with your vintage vehicle. The automobile likely contains a steel body susceptible to rust when exposed to oxygen and water. Rain, snow and road salts can negatively affect the undercarriage if they touch the metal, so spend time under the car.

Wisely Preserving a Vintage Vehicle
Century-old cars are prised possessions that deserve love and attention. If you make the time and effort, your vintage vehicle will reward you with smooth operation and easy maintenance. Create a service checklist to ensure the engine, brakes and other parts work correctly. Then, the car will be ready for a Sunday drive or a fun vintage auto show.