TIPS AND TRICKS: Basic Maintenance to Keep Your Collector Car in Top Shape All Summer Long

June 7, 2024
Posted by Barrett-Jackson

Rev up your engines, because summer is here and it’s the ultimate season for taking your collector car on that dream drive! Picture yourself cruising to the beach, winding through mountain roads or navigating the streets on your way to a car show. No matter where you are going, keeping your collector car running smoothly throughout the season requires careful maintenance and proactive measures to address its special needs.

Here are some tips and tricks to help ensure your collector car stays in great shape during the summer months.
Check Fluids Keep your ride running smooth and cool this summer by checking your car’s fluids. It’s a simple yet essential step to prevent overheating, keep the engine in top shape and ensure it operates like a dream all season long.

• One of the most important things you can do for your collector car in the summer is to keep it cool ‒ because when the mercury rises, so does the temperature under the hood. The car’s cooling system must work harder in hot weather, so ensuring the coolant level is correct helps keep the engine at an optimal temperature.
• Engine oil breaks down more quickly in high temperatures, so regular checks prevent wear and tear by ensuring proper lubrication.
• Transmission fluid can degrade in the heat, so maintaining proper levels is essential for smooth gear shifts and preventing overheating.

Check Belts and Hoses Give your car some summer love by checking its belts and hoses. It’s a helpful way to prevent overheating, keep the engine running smoothly and avoid those pesky breakdowns.

• Be sure to check the serpentine belt ‒ it powers essentials like the alternator, power steering pump and air conditioning compressor. A worn or broken belt can really mess with your ride. For the ultimate peace of mind, regularly inspect the timing belt to avoid serious engine damage.
• Give the coolant hoses a check. Summer heat can be tough on a car’s hoses, making them brittle and prone to leaks or bursts. Those hoses are super important because they carry coolant from the radiator to the engine, and any cracks or leaks can spell trouble that could cause the engine to overheat.

Check Those Tires Summer is the perfect time to give your car’s tires some TLC. Checking the tires and tire pressure is a must for smooth and safe cruising. Whether you’re hitting the beach, mountains or city streets, make sure the tires are ready for any adventure.

• When the summer heat cranks up, so does your tire pressure, which can lead to overinflation and a higher risk of blowouts, especially at high speeds ‒ yikes! Keeping tires properly inflated means better handling, better fuel efficiency and top-notch braking performance. On the flip side, underinflated tires can lead to wobbly handling, faster wear and a dip in fuel economy.
• Keep the good times rolling this summer by regularly checking the tire tread. Even tire wear extends the lifespan of the tires and saves you from premature replacements. Plus, having the right tread depth is key for gripping those wet or slick roads during summer storms. Don’t forget to inspect the tires for any damage like cuts, punctures or sidewall bulges ‒ catching these early means you can get them fixed before they become big problems.

Protect the Paint Just like you need sunscreen to protect your skin in the summer, your car needs some protection, too. Waxing your car during the sunny months is key to keeping it looking sharp and shielding it from environmental hazards.

• Think of wax as your car’s superhero cape, protecting its paint from those sneaky UV rays and preserving its vibrant colors. Wax also acts like a force field against dust, pollen, tree sap and even those pesky bird droppings, making cleanup a breeze without harming the paint job. By putting the brakes on the oxidation process, wax keeps your car looking fresh and fabulous, even in the scorching summer heat.
• Wax promotes water beading, so say goodbye to those annoying water spots and mineral deposits messing with your car’s sleek look. With a smoother surface, washing and drying your waxed car becomes a breeze.

No matter the season, proper care and maintenance helps preserve the value and longevity of your collector vehicle. But with those blue skies and inviting sunshine beckoning, you’ll no doubt be hitting the road with your collector car more frequently than usual. By following these tips and regularly monitoring your vehicle’s condition, you can enjoy a trouble-free driving experience all summer long.