No matter how old we get, we all love to play with toys. Of course as an adult, our toys are usually bigger, better and more expensive. Owning a classic or vintage car is extremely popular in the UK and events such as the Goodwood Revival have only fuelled the desire for big toys to tinker with.

If your garage is full of bits of car and your vintage Morris Minor is your pride and joy, then taking care of it is imperative. Older cars can be hard work, especially as it’s often difficult to find replacement parts for them and they’re not always the fastest of vehicles.

However, they’re great fun and are admired by everyone who sees them. Our top tips give advice on how to look after your classic or vintage car.

1.  Buy wisely

Once you’ve decided which make of classic or vintage car you wish to own and tracked down the model you want, it’s essential to have it checked. If you do it yourself, make sure you inspect the car thoroughly. Even if you’re prepared to invest your time and money into restoring a car which has seen better days, you need to make sure it can be done.

2.  Join our club

Once you’ve bought your classic or vintage car, you’re entitled to join an ‘Owner’s Club’. This is a good way to meet like-minded car enthusiasts, show your car at events and even save money on your classic car insurance. Clubs range from the prestigious Bentley Drivers Club to the Surrey Vintage Vehicle Society. View a full list of Owners’ Clubs.

3.  Make some money

If your classic car’s in good condition and you want an excuse to show it off and drive it more, consider hiring it out to brides and grooms as wedding transport. People love unusual wedding cars and you can put your pride and joy to good use.

4.  Stay in the loop

If you only use your vintage or classic car in the summer, don’t forget to declare it off the road once autumn arrives and you are no longer driving it. Otherwise you could be liable for a fine. It’s also important to make sure that your car complies with any new motoring regulations.

5.  Get online

eBay can be a goldmine for restorers of classic and vintage cars as you can find all sorts of parts and pieces for your project. If you’re unfamiliar with eBay or unsure how to go about making the most of it for your car, read this helpful article about classic cars and eBay.

John Lewis Car Insurance

If you have a classic or vintage car, finding suitable Car Insurance can be difficult, but John Lewis Car Insurance offers cover for vintage and
classic cars.

To find out more about John Lewis Car Insurance for your vintage or classic car, call 0800 916 6815 (open 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday, 9am to 5pm Saturday and 10am to 2pm Sunday) to speak to an adviser, or email our Car Service Team.

Terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and eligibility criteria apply.

John Lewis Insurance is a trading name of John Lewis plc. Registered in England No. 00233462. Registered office 171 Victoria Street London SW1E 5NN.

John Lewis plc is an appointed representative of Ageas Insurance Limited who are authorised and regulated by the Financial Services Authority. Ageas Insurance Limited. Registered in England No. 354568. Registered office: Ageas House, Tollgate, Eastleigh, Hampshire, SO53 3YA.