OWNERS GUIDE
The Forge Classic Car Owner’s Guide
Friendly advice from one classic car enthusiast to another
At The Forge, classic cars are much more than old vehicles. They represent engineering, design, memories and motoring history — and part of the enjoyment is looking after them and keeping them in good condition for the next generation.
As classic car collectors ourselves, we’ve picked up plenty of useful tips over the years. We’ve put this guide together to share some of the things we do, the products we like and the specialist suppliers and clubs we’ve found useful.
It isn’t intended to be the definitive answer to every classic car question. Every car is different, and what suits one model may not be right for another. Think of it as a collection of friendly recommendations from fellow enthusiasts, to help you enjoy your own classic for years to come.
1. Looking After Your Classic Car
We believe that regular, thoughtful maintenance is one of the best ways to enjoy classic car ownership. A little time spent checking and caring for your car can help prevent problems and preserve the things that make it special.
Battery maintenance
Many classics spend more time in the garage than modern daily drivers, and batteries don’t always appreciate being left unused for long periods.
We fit a smart battery charger to every car we prepare at The Forge, as we find it a sensible way to help maintain battery condition when a car is not being driven regularly.
For your own car, we recommend considering a suitable smart charger or battery maintainer. Choose one compatible with your battery, follow the instructions carefully and make sure it is used in a safe, suitable environment.
A little attention here can make the difference between turning the key and being greeted by a flat battery.
Engine oil and servicing
Classic engines were designed around the engineering and lubricants of their time, so choosing the right oil is worth thinking about.
In our workshop, we like to use Morris Lubricants Golden Film 20W-50 when preparing many of our cars. For a number of older British engines, a good-quality 20W-50 can be a suitable choice, but it is important to check the requirements of your particular engine rather than assume one oil suits everything.
Regular oil changes and routine servicing are equally important. Keep an eye on coolant, hoses, brakes, tyres and other essential components, and deal with small problems before they have a chance to become larger ones.
Our advice is simple: get to know your car, keep up with its maintenance and use a garage or specialist who understands the model when you need help.
Paintwork care and protection
One of the pleasures of owning a classic is seeing its paintwork looking its best. Regular washing, careful polishing and sensible protection can help keep it that way.
We’ve been fans of Autoglym products over the years and use them when preparing cars in our workshop. They are a range worth considering if you’re looking after your own classic.
As always, use products suitable for your particular paint finish. Older paint, fresh resprays and delicate finishes may need a different approach, so test carefully and follow the manufacturer's instructions.
There is no need to turn every cleaning session into a major detailing exercise. Gentle, regular care is often the best place to start.
Chrome and brightwork
Bright bumpers, polished trim and chrome details are a big part of the appeal of many classic cars. They deserve a little care, too.
We recommend using a suitable metal polish, such as Autosol Metal Polish, where it is appropriate for the finish. Work gently, particularly around older plating that may already be thin, pitted or deteriorating.
If chrome is badly corroded or beginning to peel, polishing alone will not put it right. In those circumstances, professional assessment and restoration may be the better option.
Fuel and fuel system care
Fuel is another area where it pays not to make assumptions. Premium unleaded is suitable for many classic cars, but the correct fuel depends on the engine, compression ratio, ignition settings and any modifications.
If you are unsure, check the handbook or speak to a specialist familiar with your model.
It is also worth remembering that older fuel hoses, seals and other components can deteriorate with age. If a car has been standing for a long time, have the fuel system checked before putting it back into regular use.
General maintenance checks
We find that a regular look over a car is time well spent. You don’t need to be a mechanic to notice that something looks different or needs attention.
Things we suggest keeping an eye on include:
Tyres: condition, pressures, age and signs of cracking.
Brakes: operation, fluid levels and any signs of leaks.
Cooling system: coolant levels, hoses and signs of overheating.
Leaks: oil, coolant, brake fluid and other fluids.
Electrical items: lights, connections and battery condition.
Rubber components: fuel hoses, cooling hoses, seals and belts.
Bodywork and underside: corrosion, damaged underseal and places where moisture can collect.
If something doesn’t look or feel right, don’t ignore it. A second opinion from someone who knows the marque can often be invaluable.
Keeping your classic car’s history file
This is something we feel strongly about. A classic car’s history is part of its character, and we recommend keeping as complete a record as possible.
Keep every invoice and receipt you can, along with details of servicing, repairs, restoration work and any modifications or improvements. Where possible, record the date, mileage, work carried out, garage or specialist involved and any important parts fitted.
Photographs can be especially useful when documenting restoration work. Keep MOT certificates, service records, old photographs, handbooks and original paperwork together in a safe place.
A good history file helps you understand your car, shows how it has been cared for and may support its value when it is time to sell or pass it on to another enthusiast.
Our advice is to keep the paperwork, even when a job seems small. Years later, those little records can become an important part of the car’s story.
MOT requirements for classic cars
Some classic vehicles qualify for exemption from MOT testing, but age alone does not automatically make every vehicle exempt.
Eligibility depends on the vehicle’s age and whether it has undergone substantial changes to its main components.
Even when a car is exempt, it must still be roadworthy. Many owners also choose to arrange a voluntary MOT as a useful independent check.
Before relying on an exemption, read the current official guidance:
GOV.UK — Historic and classic vehicle MOT exemption criteria
Road tax and historic vehicle status
Eligible vehicles can qualify for the historic vehicle tax class, which generally means a £0 vehicle tax rate. The vehicle must still be correctly registered and taxed with the DVLA.
The rules depend on the vehicle’s age and circumstances, so check the latest guidance before applying.
GOV.UK — Apply for vehicle tax exemption
2. Protecting the Underside: Chassis Care and Lanoguard
It is easy to concentrate on the paintwork and chrome because they are the parts we see every day. However, the underside of a classic deserves just as much attention.
Moisture, road dirt and winter salt can all contribute to corrosion, particularly if the car is driven throughout the year. Even a car that is used only occasionally can suffer if it is stored damp or has areas where water collects.
We recommend inspecting the underside periodically and dealing with any corrosion or damage before it gets worse. Pay particular attention to chassis sections, suspension mounting points, seams and areas where dirt can accumulate.
Is Lanoguard worth considering?
Lanoguard is one option worth looking into for chassis and underbody protection. It may be particularly relevant if you use your classic in changeable weather or want to take preventative steps to help protect vulnerable areas.
As with any protective treatment, preparation is important. The underside should be inspected first, and dirt, trapped moisture and existing corrosion need to be considered before applying a product. A protective coating is not a substitute for repairing structural corrosion.
Our recommendation is to research the product, read the manufacturer's application guidance and decide whether it is suitable for your particular car and how you use it. If the underside is already corroded or you are unsure of its condition, have it assessed before applying a treatment.
Whatever approach you choose, regular inspection and keeping the underside as clean and dry as reasonably possible are good habits for any classic owner.
3. Preparing Your Classic for Winter Storage
Many of us enjoy using our classics during the warmer months and giving them a rest over winter. Others prefer to keep driving whenever the weather allows. Either way, a little preparation can help your car come through the colder months in better condition.
These are the practical steps we recommend considering before putting a car away for an extended period.
Give the car a proper clean
Wash away dirt, road grime and any salt picked up during winter driving. Pay attention to the wheel arches, underside and other areas where grime can collect.
Dry the car thoroughly before covering it or putting it away. Trapped moisture is something you want to avoid, especially around seams, carpets and the underside.
Choose the right storage space
A secure, dry, well-ventilated garage is ideal where possible. Try to avoid storing the car somewhere damp or where condensation regularly forms.
If you do not have a garage, consider what protection is practical for your circumstances and make sure the car is not left in a place where water can collect around it.
Use a suitable car cover
A good-quality cover designed for the storage environment can help protect the car from dust and light contact. For indoor storage, choose a breathable cover intended for that purpose.
Avoid putting a cover over a wet car, and check the cover regularly to make sure moisture is not becoming trapped underneath. An unsuitable or poorly fitted cover can do more harm than good.
Look after the battery
If the car will be unused for several weeks or months, consider using a suitable smart battery maintainer. Follow the charger and battery manufacturers’ guidance, and make sure the electrical setup is safe for the storage location.
Check the tyres
Inflate tyres to the recommended pressures before storage and check them periodically. For a car being stored for a long period, follow the tyre manufacturer’s advice on preventing flat spots and supporting the vehicle safely if appropriate.
Never work beneath a vehicle unless it is properly supported with suitable equipment.
Think about the fuel
The right approach depends on the car, its fuel system and how long it will be stored. Follow the vehicle or fuel-system specialist’s advice about fuel level, fuel stabilisers and any precautions needed for older components.
Do not assume the same approach suits every classic.
Be mindful of the handbrake
If the car is being stored for a long time, a handbrake left applied can sometimes stick. Consider the manufacturer's advice and make sure the vehicle is securely prevented from moving before deciding how to leave it.
Never compromise on safety or leave a car unsecured just to avoid a sticking brake.
Expect the occasional drip
Many older British classics can develop the occasional oil or fluid leak, especially as seals and gaskets age. We recommend placing a suitable drip tray beneath areas where leaks are known to occur.
Do keep an eye on the tray, though. A new or increasing leak should be investigated rather than simply caught.
Protect the underside before winter
If you drive your classic during colder months, think about the condition of its chassis protection before the weather turns. Clean off accumulated dirt and salt, inspect vulnerable areas and consider whether an appropriate protective treatment, such as
Lanoguard, might suit your vehicle.
Do not apply a coating over corrosion or dampness without first understanding the condition of the metal.
Check on the car from time to time
Storage is not a case of shutting the garage door until spring. If possible, check the car periodically for damp, leaks, pests, battery condition and any changes in its surroundings.
When the time comes to bring it out again, take a little time to check the tyres, brakes, fluids, battery and general condition before driving. If it has been stored for a long period, a more thorough inspection may be sensible.
A final winter storage thought
There is no single routine that suits every classic. A restored show car, an older touring car and a regularly used sports car may all need different treatment.
Our advice is to prepare the car according to its condition, the storage environment and how long it will be off the road. A little care before winter can save a lot of frustration when the better driving weather returns.
4. Classic Car Insurance
Finding cover that suits your car and how you use it is an important part of ownership. Specialist classic policies may offer features such as agreed-value cover, limited mileage options, laid-up cover and recovery arrangements.
When comparing insurance, we suggest checking:
Whether an agreed value is available and what evidence is required.
Annual mileage limits and any restrictions on use.
Storage and security requirements.
Cover for modifications or restoration work.
Breakdown and recovery arrangements.
Whether European travel is included.
What happens if the car is damaged while being repaired or transported.
The following providers are worth comparing:
We always recommend reading the policy carefully and speaking directly to the insurer about your particular car. The cheapest policy is not necessarily the one that offers the most appropriate cover.
5. Classic Car Parts and Accessories
One of the pleasures — and occasionally the challenges — of classic ownership is finding the right part. We have found the following suppliers useful starting points when looking for components for older British cars.
These are recommendations from our own resource list, rather than an exhaustive directory. Always check that the part is suitable for your model, year and specification before ordering.
A tip when ordering parts
If possible, have the car’s registration, chassis number, engine details and model year to hand. Older cars can have variations introduced during production, and many have been modified over the years.
Parts diagrams and owners’ club advice can be very helpful. If a part looks similar but the supplier cannot confirm compatibility, it is worth checking before placing an order.
6. Chrome Plating, Polishing and Metal Finishing
Chrome and brightwork can transform the appearance of a classic, but older plating does not last forever. Pitting, peeling and corrosion may eventually call for specialist attention.
The following companies are places to start when looking into plating and metal finishing:
Before sending components away, we suggest asking what materials they work with, whether they can repair damaged items before plating and what preparation is required.
It is also sensible to ask for a quotation, an estimated turnaround time and details of how the parts will be insured in transit and while in the company's care.
Some original parts can be difficult to replace, so take photographs and label components carefully before removing them from the car.
7. Owners’ Clubs, Museums and Classic Motoring Heritage
We have always felt that the people around the hobby are one of the best things about classic motoring. Owners’ clubs bring together people who have spent years learning about particular models, and many are happy to share their experience.
Whether you are tracking down a difficult part, looking for technical advice or simply hoping to meet like-minded enthusiasts, a club can be a great place to start.
Federation of British Historic Vehicle Clubs (FBHVC)
A useful organisation for information about historic vehicles, motoring heritage and issues affecting classic vehicle owners.
Website: www.fbhvc.co.uk
British Motor Museum
Well worth a visit for anyone interested in the story of British motoring and the development of the vehicles we enjoy today.
Website: www.britishmotormuseum.co.uk
Triumph Sports Six Club
A community for Triumph enthusiasts, offering opportunities to share knowledge, attend events and meet other owners.
Website: www.tssc.org.uk
TR Register
For owners and enthusiasts of Triumph TR sports cars, with technical resources, events and a community of fellow enthusiasts.
Website: www.tr-register.co.uk
MG Car Club
A long-established club for MG owners and enthusiasts, with regional groups, events and model-related resources.
Website: www.mgcc.co.uk
Jaguar Enthusiasts’ Club
A community for Jaguar owners and enthusiasts, with events, member activities and information about different models.
Website: www.jec.org.uk
Joining a club can be particularly valuable if you are new to a marque. Advice from someone who has owned and maintained the same model for years can sometimes save time, money and frustration.
8. Keeping the History Alive
Every classic has its own story. It might be a car that has stayed in one family for decades, one that has travelled thousands of miles or one that has been patiently brought back to life through a restoration.
We think preserving that history is part of the pleasure of collecting. Keep old photographs, original handbooks, previous registration documents and details of earlier owners where available. Record restoration work and retain information about original parts that have been replaced.
If you are buying a classic, take time to look through the paperwork as well as the car itself. If you already own one, start building a history file even if the early records are incomplete.
You may never need every document, but the information you keep could be of real interest to the next owner.
A classic car is more than its current condition. Its history is part of what makes it special.
A few final words from us
We hope you find this guide useful. It brings together some of the things we have learnt and the suppliers and organisations we think are worth knowing about as classic car enthusiasts.
We are collectors ourselves, and our aim is to share helpful advice rather than tell anyone there is only one way to look after a classic. Every vehicle is different, and owners will naturally have their own preferred products, maintenance routines and specialists.
Please check details directly with suppliers and organisations, as services, product ranges and regulations can change. Always follow the relevant manufacturer's instructions and seek specialist help if you are unsure about the condition or safety of your vehicle.
Most importantly, enjoy your classic. Drive it when you can, look after it as well as you can, keep its history safe and pass on the enthusiasm that makes this hobby so rewarding
From our collection to yours, happy motoring — and we hope to see you out on the road.