If I learned anything from my passion for classics and over the years restoring and taking care of cars, it is the impact of climate on the preservation of classic cars.
The climate is not just a detail, but a determining factor in the preservation of our jewels on wheels.
Whether you live in an extreme climate or a more temperate area, time will always leave its mark on your car... unless you know how to protect it.
Let me tell you what I've learned over time, the mistakes I've made, and what really works to keep a classic car in pristine condition.
Because it doesn't matter if you have an American muscle car, a sleek European one or a domestic classic, the number one enemy of these vehicles will always be the natural wear and tear caused by the weather.
1. Humidity and rust: the silent enemy
If you've ever discovered a small spot of rust on your car's body, you know there's no worse feeling.
It's like seeing the first gray hairs in your hair, only here, if you don't act quickly, the problem expands and becomes a real disaster.
How does humidity affect your classic car?
- Bodywork: Moisture penetrates small scratches and wears away the paint, leaving the metal exposed to corrosion.
- Chassis and underbody: If not properly protected, rust can pierce the metal, compromising the car's structure.
- Electrical system: Humidity also affects wiring, causing electrical faults that are difficult to trace.
- Inside: Leather upholstery and carpets can absorb moisture, causing mold and unpleasant odors.
How to protect it?
- Store in a dry, well-ventilated place. A garage with humidity control is ideal.
- Apply anti-corrosive treatments. You can use protective waxes on the paint and specific sprays on the underbody of the car.
- Use dehumidifiers in the garage. You will prevent moisture from accumulating inside the car.
- Clean and dry your car thoroughly after rain or washing. Do not let water accumulate in critical areas.
2. Extreme heat and damage to paint and plastics
If you live in an area with intense heat, you've probably noticed how cars that spend a lot of time in the sun end up with dull paint and cracked interiors. And trust me, restoring a sun-damaged dashboard isn't cheap.
What does heat do to a classic car?
- It wears down the paint. UV rays break down the protective coating and can cause the paint to crack and lose its shine.
- It affects plastics and rubbers. Dashboards, steering wheels, and door seals can dry out and crack.
- It damages the battery. Extreme heat reduces battery life, affecting its performance.
How to avoid sun damage?
- Whenever possible, park in the shade or use a car cover.
- Wax your car regularly. This creates a barrier against UV rays.
- Use sunscreen on your windshield. They reduce the internal temperature and protect the dashboard.
- Moisturizes leather and plastic parts. Use special products to maintain flexibility and prevent cracking.
3. Extreme cold and its consequences on engines and materials
The cold isn't just a problem in itself; it exacerbates other factors like humidity and rust. But that's not all: extreme cold can be brutal on the engine and other mechanical components.
How does the cold affect your classic?
- The engine oil thickens. If the oil is not suitable for low temperatures, the engine will suffer more when starting from cold.
- The rubber bands become hard and can break. This affects hoses, door seals and tires.
- The battery loses charge faster. If your classic car is not used regularly, the battery could become completely discharged in the winter.
How to protect it in winter?
- Use an oil suitable for low temperatures. Consult your car's manual to choose the best viscosity.
- Keep the battery charged. If you don't use your car often, unplug it or use a charging maintainer.
- Start the car periodically. This keeps fluids moving and prevents seals from drying out.
- Cover the car with a thermal blanket if it is in a cold garage. This helps maintain a stable temperature.
4. Storms, hail and other natural disasters
If there's one thing I dread, it's a hailstorm with my classic car parked outside. Nothing hurts more than seeing your car covered in dents because you didn't protect it in time.
How to protect it from storms and hail?
- If you have time, take him to a covered place.
- If you can't move it, use a thick padded cover. There are specific covers to protect against hail.
- Avoid driving in severe storms. Visibility is low and the risk of damage is high.
The weather is unforgiving, but you can beat it.
After years of dealing with all kinds of climates, I can tell you with certainty: A well-protected classic car lasts for generations.
No matter where you live, there are always ways to minimize the impact of climate change.
So, if you want your car to remain a jewel on the road, invest in its protection.
In the long run, it will save you money, time, and more than one headache.
And remember, caring for a classic isn't just a matter of mechanics; it's also a battle against time and the elements. Do it right, and your car will thank you for many years to come.
+See also: How to keep a collector car in perfect condition
Passionate about classic cars for as long as he can remember, Javier Montoro has dedicated his life to the search, restoration, and preservation of true gems on wheels. With years of experience purchasing, restoring, and maintaining vintage vehicles, he shares his knowledge, stories, and lessons learned on this blog.