| Let us examine some of the basic elements that | | | | sound from the transaxle needs to be closely |
| need to be carefully inspected before going for a | | | | looked into as it can speak of the problems in the |
| classic car. | | | | wheel bearings. The brakes, gauges (including the |
| 1 Verification of the paperwork | | | | speedometer), tachometer, etc., battery and oil |
| Check out the authenticity of the car before you | | | | gauges, suspension, and much more are to be |
| spend your valuable time over the other detailed | | | | inspected while test driving. Driving can also tell |
| aspects before making the purchase. Ensure that | | | | whether the clutch is spongy or firm. |
| the Vehicle Identification Number on the vehicle | | | | 4 Look under the hood |
| coincides with those in the documentation to | | | | If you are satisfied with the performance on the |
| remove any doubts of alterations. If the owner | | | | road, now is the time to look under the hood. The |
| claims that he has made restorations, request the | | | | hoses, wiring, and engine mounts have to be |
| papers or pictures taken before and after. | | | | inspected to see how well it has been maintained. |
| 2 Check for the vital signs | | | | A closer look at the timing belt that may be |
| Now is the time for you to keep a close watch | | | | damaged can reduce the hit on the functionality |
| over the condition of the classic car. Start the car | | | | of the engine, improving fuel efficiency. A faulty |
| and inspect the color of the smoke coming out of | | | | timing chain can make the engine. |
| the exhaust when the engine is cold. Also, look for | | | | 5 External checks |
| smoke by revving the engine. If the smoke | | | | Next, inspect the tires for their tread depth and |
| emitted is black, it can be a sign of worn out | | | | pressure for abnormal wear and tear. Abnormality |
| piston rings, the cylinder linings or the carburetor, | | | | might be the result of poor wheel alignment or |
| denoting a very "tired" engine. This might require | | | | other reasons. Also, check out for signs of rust |
| you to invest a few more extra dollars to get | | | | and deterioration as this is one major threat |
| the engine back into shape. Ask for the history of | | | | faced by classic cars. The heating/AC, defogger, |
| repair and maintenance performed on the car so | | | | glove box, steering lock, horn, mirrors, carpets |
| that you know the amount you need to further | | | | and other interior furnishings can speak volumes |
| invest. | | | | about the maintenance and fitness of the car. |
| 3 Conduct a road test | | | | Seek the advice of an expert mechanic. He can |
| Now is the time to drive the car to observe the | | | | always tell you any of the vital signs that you |
| engine performance and acceleration. The time | | | | may have missed. Remember, the classic car is |
| taken for the engine to respond, the sound | | | | an adornment to your collection and is worth |
| emitted from the engine, the smoothness of the | | | | every cent spent by you. Inspect thoroughly for |
| steering, etc. need to be closely checked into. Any | | | | maximum enjoyment. |