For many classic car owners, the Christmas season is one of the most enjoyable times of the year to get out on the road.
Whether you are visiting family, heading to a winter classic car meet, or simply enjoying a crisp countryside drive, taking your cherished vehicle out during the festive period can be hugely rewarding. Yet winter journeys also bring particular challenges.
Cold temperatures, slippery roads, short daylight hours, and the general unpredictability of the season mean that preparation is essential. Caring for a classic car is always a labour of love, and a little attention before the holidays can make the difference between a smooth Christmas journey and an unwanted breakdown.
Here is how to get your classic ready for reliable and enjoyable Christmas trips.
A proper mechanical check is the foundation of any safe winter journey. Start with the basics. Check your oil level and coolant condition, and look for any signs of leaks.
Winter places extra demands on an engine, especially older units that rely heavily on good lubrication and correct cooling. If your oil is due to be changed, do it before the festive period so the engine runs as smoothly as possible in colder temperatures.
Classic cars often benefit from more frequent servicing than modern vehicles because they lack sophisticated monitoring systems and are more sensitive to wear. While you are under the bonnet, examine belts, hoses, and gaskets. Cold weather can expose weaknesses rapidly and repairs at home are always easier than repairs at the roadside.
Tyres are one of the most important safety components during winter. Rubber naturally hardens in the cold, which reduces grip. Make sure your tyres have adequate tread depth and check them for cracks, bulges, or flat spots, particularly if the car has been resting for a while.
Ensure pressures match the manufacturer’s recommendations as cold weather can cause a noticeable drop. If you plan on doing significant mileage in poor conditions, consider fitting tyres with a more winter-friendly tread pattern, where available for your model.
Brakes also deserve attention. Classic brake systems can deteriorate without obvious signs, so test them thoroughly and have them inspected if you suspect fading, pulling, or excessive travel in the pedal.
Electrical gremlins are among the most common causes of winter woes in older cars. Batteries in particular struggle in low temperatures, so test yours and replace it if it shows signs of weakening.
A healthy battery is essential for reliable starting, especially with classic engines that may require more cranking on cold mornings. Clean the terminals, ensure the alternator is charging correctly, and check all wiring for corrosion or loose connections. Pay special attention to lights because visibility is crucial at this time of year. Replace any dim bulbs, ensure headlight lenses are clean, and carry spares if your classic requires them. If your car has period wiring, consider having it professionally assessed to catch issues before they turn into seasonal hazards.
Comfort and visibility go hand in hand. Older heaters are not always the most powerful, yet they are vital for demisting your windscreen and keeping passengers warm. Test your heater, fan, and air controls to make sure everything functions as it should.
If the system is sluggish, the heater matrix may need flushing, or the fan motor may require attention. Inspect all weather seals around doors, windows, and the boot. Cold air and moisture seeping into the cabin can cause discomfort, distracting noises, or even water damage.
Replacing worn seals is a relatively simple job that can greatly improve winter motoring. If your classic is a convertible, check the condition of the roof and ensure the mechanism closes tightly without gaps.
Classic cars vary widely in their ability to cope with winter roads. Rear-wheel drive vehicles with light back ends can be more vulnerable to slipping in icy conditions. If this applies to your car, consider adding a little extra weight in the boot to improve traction.
Ensure your windscreen washer fluid is topped up with a winter-strength formula that will not freeze. Check that your wipers clear the glass effectively and replace them if necessary. Keep an eye on grit and salt on the roads.
Although essential for safety, road salt is one of the biggest enemies of classic car bodywork. If you plan to drive regularly over the Christmas period, applying a protective underseal or wax-based corrosion inhibitor can help shield vulnerable areas from damage.
Christmas often brings delays, roadworks, and unexpected detours. Planning your journey in advance reduces stress and helps account for the particular needs of a classic car.
Choose routes with good lighting where possible and avoid areas prone to flooding or untreated roads. Consider carrying a winter kit which includes blankets, de-icer, gloves, a torch, jump leads, a warning triangle, and basic tools.
A small supply of spare coolant and oil can also be useful. Many classic owners already keep a few essential spares in the boot such as points, fuses, or fan belts. It is always better to have them and not need them than the reverse. If your car has a manual choke or other period controls, make sure all drivers understand how to use them confidently.
Know when to seek expert help
Even with careful preparation, some issues are best left to specialists. If you spot rust bubbling under paint, hear worrying noises, or feel something is not quite right when driving, do not delay. A small problem can become a costly repair if left over winter.
At White’s Bodyworks, we regularly help classic owners protect their pride and joy from the challenges of the season. From bodywork repairs and rust prevention to paint protection and winter preparation checks, we offer expert care tailored to the needs of cherished vehicles.
A quick inspection now can save frustration later and ensure your classic remains in excellent condition for Christmas and beyond. Contact our expert team for a service today.
