Inspecting a classic car before purchase requires a keen eye and attention to detail. If you are in the market to buy a classic car or truck, it is extremely important to know how to inspect a vehicle for issues it may have. The best way to know about issues a vehicle has is to know as much about that make and model as you can. When you think you have learned enough about a specific vehicle, we suggest you keep researching! The more you know, the better you will be able to spot any issues before making a purchase.
We also recommend that you carry three things with you whenever you are inspecting a classic car: a flashlight, a magnet, and a piece of carpet or a towel. The flashlight is for peering into all corners of a car. The magnet is for checking whether steel-bodied cars have been restored with plastic filler. And the piece of carpet or towel is for you to lie on as you inspect the car’s undercarriage.
Here is a comprehensive checklist to help you identify potential issues:
Exterior Inspection:
- Check for rust or corrosion, especially in common areas like the undercarriage, wheel wells, and around windows.
- Look for signs of previous accidents or repairs, such as uneven panel gaps or mismatched paint.
- Inspect the condition of the paint for cracks, fading, or peeling.
- Check the condition of the chrome trim, bumpers, and other exterior fittings for pitting or damage.
- Take note of the condition of the tires, whether they are the same brand, or if they are bubbling or cracking on the sidewalls. Observe tread. There should be at least a one-third inch of tire tread left on classic car tires. If the tread is uneven, there may be a suspension issue.
Inspecting A Classic Car Body Panels:
When looking at the body panels of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you’ll want to look at the following:
- Check the exterior of the car by walking around it and noting any scratches, dents, discoloration, rust, or blemishes of any kind.
- Look out for gaps between panels looking for evidence of frame damage. Uneven gaps may be indicative of an accident repair.
- Assess the condition of undercarriage including frame and sub-frames.
- Assess the condition of the under body including floor pans, trunk pan, rocker panels, etc.
- Examine for evidence of rust, collision, or flood damage.
- Assess fit, finish and condition of body panels and paint.
Interior Inspection:
- Examine the upholstery for tears, stains, or signs of wear.
- Test all controls and switches, including lights, wipers, horn, and radio.
- Check the condition of the dashboard and instrument panel for cracks or other damage.
- Inspect the condition of the carpets and headliner for damage or sagging.
Mechanical Inspection:
- Start the engine and listen for any unusual noises like knocking or ticking.
- Check for leaks underneath the car, including oil, coolant, or brake fluid leaks.
- Inspect the condition of the belts and hoses for signs of wear or deterioration.
- Test the brakes for responsiveness and signs of wear.
- Check the suspension by bouncing each corner of the car to see if it rebounds smoothly.
Helpful hint: Generally, I ask the seller not to start the car before I arrive to inspect, and I check to make sure the engine is cold when I get there. Engines with problems will show more signs of issues when cold and not pre-warmed up and run.
Inspecting A Classic Car Electrical System:
- Test all lights, including headlights, taillights, brake lights, and turn signals.
- Check the operation of the gauges and indicators on the instrument panel.
- Test the functionality of the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) system.
Undercarriage Inspection:
- Use a flashlight to inspect the frame and chassis for any signs of damage or rust.
- Check the condition of the exhaust system for rust or leaks.
- Look for any signs of damage to the suspension components, such as bent or broken parts.
Test Drive:
- Take the car for a test drive to evaluate its performance and handling.
- Pay attention to any unusual noises, vibrations, or handling issues.
- Test the acceleration, braking, and steering responsiveness.
- Note any issues with the transmission, such as slipping or rough shifting.
Documentation and History:
- Ask for any maintenance records, receipts, or documentation of past repairs.
- Research the vehicle’s history using resources like Carfax or AutoCheck to check for any reported accidents or damage.
Inspecting A Classic Car Smells:
When assessing the smell of a vehicle for a pre-purchase inspection, you will want to check the following:
- Check the interior of the car for a mold or mildew smell. If a classic car hasn’t been well looked after, it may show signs of water damage that are easily sniffed out.
- Make sure you double-check carpets for evidence of water damage, mildew, or mold.
Expert Inspection:
Consider hiring a qualified mechanic or classic car expert to perform a thorough inspection, especially if you are not confident in your own abilities. You should consider getting a pre-purchase inspection done by a mechanic or other certified professional, especially if you are buying from a private seller. They will check the vehicle from top to bottom to identify any cosmetic or mechanical issues and tell you if it needs any work. Inspections generally cost a few hundred dollars, but they can save you even more than that if they uncover any serious defects.
Finally
Sometimes, used cars may not be in the proper condition to drive or may need additional maintenance after purchase. The best way to understand exactly how much time and work you will need to put into the used vehicle is to get a pre-purchase inspection. By following this checklist and conducting a thorough inspection, you can identify any potential issues with a classic car before making a purchase decision.
