• Home
  • Welcome!
  • Mission Statement
  • The Compass Girls
  • Privacy Policy
  • Contact

Champagne Living

Live the Good Life!

  • The Buzz
    • Men’s Corner
  • Fashion & Beauty
  • Home
    • Snowbirds
  • Travel
    • Cruise
    • USA
      • Florida
      • Las Vegas
      • New York
    • Mexico
    • Europe
    • LGBTQ Travel
  • Food & Drink
    • Drink
    • Dine In
    • Dine Out
    • South Florida
  • Weddings
  • Cars & RVs
  • Gift Guides
You are here: Home / Ride / Classic Car Hunting? Stay on the Lookout for These Inspection Red Flags

Ride

Classic Car Hunting? Stay on the Lookout for These Inspection Red Flags

 

Though the saying “they don’t make them like they used to” reigns true in so many conversations, it holds especially true in car ownership contexts. Nowadays, cars are mass-produced, cheaply made, and jam-packed with computers that reduce drivers’ ability to assume control of their vehicle.

With this assembly line of cookie-cutter cars in mind, it’s no wonder that classic cars are in such high demand. From their iconic looks and craftsmanship to the raw feeling of driving, vintage vehicles provide a driving experience unmatched by most modern cars.

Even though you have your eyes set on a classic car that looks mesmerizing on the outside, there can be many red-flags hidden under a shiny new coat of paint. Red flags such as rust or squeaky shocks can easily cost thousands of dollars to repair, and unless you notice these blemishes before purchasing the car, you could be buying a money pit.

Whether the classic car you’re looking at is an investment or your next daily driver, it’s essential to do your due diligence before finalizing your purchase. Look underneath the car, drive it, have it inspected and if you are buying it out of state, make sure to use a company specializing in classic car transportation.

Found a perfect vintage car out-of-state? What’s next?

For those vehicle owners shopping for a classic car out of state, your top priority as a responsible vintage car owner should be to have the vehicle inspected before purchasing a plane ticket or making the cross-country trek. While dealerships will provide you with a CARFAX report for free, remain cautious.

Although this report contains must-know insider information, it’s not often not detailed enough to steer your decision in a positive direction.

Search for reputable mechanics and companies in the city specializing in classic cars and are willing to perform an inspection. Even though the inspection won’t be free of charge, it will provide you with the knowledge and surety you need to purchase or pass on the car.

Once you have had the car inspected and purchased it, your vehicle must make it safely back to your home without incurring any damage or adding excessive mileage that can hurt its resale value. The best way to do this is to search for a company that specializes in classic cars transport. Trusted car transportation companies will pick up your vehicle and deliver it safely, dent and ding-free. 

Red flags first-time classic car buyers should look out for

When the classic car of your dreams is only inches away from you and is glistening in the sunlight, it’s easy to get distracted and make a spur of the moment purchase without having the car properly inspected. Experienced classic car owners recognize this struggle, but they know that if they let their emotions get the best of them, it can be a devastating financial mistake. To avoid financial slip-ups, keep these three red flags on your radar.

Rust

Unless a car has been fully restored, it’s common for a classic car to have some signs of rust. Small amounts of rust are an easy fix. However, if the rust is extensive and it is causing holes and degradation, it is much more expensive.

Exterior

The best time and place to inspect a car is outside while the sun is shining. Dark showrooms and shadows can easily mask scratches and imperfections in the paint and bodywork of the vehicle.

Interior

Intact and original interiors are far more valuable than updated interiors. Check to see if the seats, upholstery, badges, and dash have sustained any degree of damage. If they’re in good condition, the next step is to check to see if the interior is original to the car.

 

 

 


About Zipporah Sandler

Zipporah Sandler AKA Zippy is a lifestyle and travel specialist who after living everywhere from Providence to Paris found herself suddenly residing in South Florida (something she swore she’d never do).

Whether it be San Pellegrino water or Louis Roderer Cristal, Zippy suggests that you keep your life sparkling and your glass full.

« Take The Stress Out Of Wedding Planning With These Essential Tips
Creating a Home of House Plants »

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • Instagram

Eat what I eat!

Black Friday 2020 Deal

Guide to a great New Year’s brunch

Click the center of the guide for a fullscreen view to shop from.

Giveaways

  • Retro 6 can mini fridge
Shopbop.com

Fast Free Shipping Worldwide

  • JUST ARRIVED
  • SHOP SCARVES
  • SHOP SWEATER

Fast Free Shipping Worldwide

JUST ARRIVED

  • Justine Clenquet

    Get the Look

  • BY FAR

    Buy Kersti Strappy Sandals from BY FAR

  • Year of Ours

    steal their style

< >

SHOP SCARVES

  • Paul Smith

    steal their style

  • KENZO

    KENZO Quilted Scarf

  • Paul Smith

    Cosmos Scarf by Paul Smith

  • Fred Perry

    Buy Now at Shopbop

  • Begg & Co.

    Begg & Co. Moret 12" x 67" Scarf

  • Carhartt WIP

    Get the Look

< >

SHOP SWEATER

  • McQ - Alexander McQueen

    Get the Look

  • Obey

    Obey Scorpion Sweater

  • Club Monaco

    Buy Now at Shopbop

< >

Shop Flat Silver Shoes, Tees, Printed Jumpsuits, Denim Mini Skirts and more. Get this widget.

Cars Bars & Pars – a men’s lifestyle blog

Dealspotr.com

Copyright © 2021 · Champagne Living Media LLC (2007)

Copyright © 2021 · Divine Theme on Genesis Framework · WordPress · Log in

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Pinterest
  • LinkedIn
  • Flipboard
  • Email