The winter season is over, the sun is beckoning – and the [vehicle] is waiting in the garage shelter. Classics for its first outing of the season. But before the ignition key is turned, a thorough technical inspection should take place.
The GTÜ Gesellschaft für Technische Überwachung mbH (GTÜ Society for Technical Inspection) has now compiled practical tips to ensure a safe start to the classic car season.
Check first, then start.
It's worth checking the battery a few days before the first ride. If it was regularly charged over the winter, problems are unlikely.
Anyone who missed this step should recharge the battery now – this takes several hours with a standard charger. If the battery doesn't charge, replacement is unavoidable, as prolonged periods without charging can permanently damage it.
Oil, coolant and brakes
Before starting the engine for the first time, a complete fluid check is mandatory. This involves inspecting all lines for damp spots and porous hoses. Fresh stains under the vehicle – best seen when the car hasn't been driven – indicate leaks.
The oil level should be checked using the dipstick. If the last oil change was more than one to two years ago, a change including the filter is due, regardless of the mileage.
The coolant level must also not have dropped below the minimum level. A lack of coolant can lead to serious and costly engine damage due to overheating.
Underestimated security risk
Extra caution is required if the brake fluid level has dropped. The fluid may have entered the brake drums or onto the brake discs and significantly impair braking performance.
In older classic cars with a single-circuit braking system, a single leak can cause complete brake failure. Furthermore, the brake fluid should be changed every two years – the older it is, the lower its boiling point and the greater the risk of brake failure under heavy use, such as when driving downhill.
Getting classic cars ready for spring
Profile alone is not enough
Even if many classic cars only cover a few kilometers per year and the tread still looks adequate, they age Tires due to ozone, UV radiation and temperature fluctuations.
The result: The rubber hardens, grip decreases, especially in wet conditions, and the braking distance increases noticeably. Experts recommend changing tires at least every six to eight years, even for classic cars.
Lighting system and date
A complete lighting test is also part of the spring check. Do the rear and front headlights work? Is the license plate light intact? The latter is safety-relevant and is checked during the main vehicle inspection (HU).
Those who register their vehicle with a seasonal license plate don't have to worry about registering and deregistering it annually – but should keep track of the vehicle inspection (HU) deadline. A quick look at the vehicle registration document or the rear license plate will provide the necessary information.
The GTÜ inspection engineers can help with mandatory vehicle inspections. Many GTÜ Classic partners specialize in classic and vintage cars.
Attention requested
Driving a classic car means doing without many of the comfort features of modern vehicles. Without power steering or power brakes, real muscle power is required.
Unsynchronized gearboxes require precise rev-matching when downshifting, and braking distances are often significantly longer than in modern vehicles. But for many classic car enthusiasts, that's precisely the appeal.
Leisurely and attentive
After the technical check, a first test drive at a relaxed pace is recommended. Afterwards, a final visual inspection of all lines and a look underneath the vehicle are worthwhile.
If everything is sealed and the technology is working properly, nothing stands in the way of a relaxing classic car season – because such journeys are for enjoyment, not just for arriving…
