How to Protect Your Classic Car from Summer Heat

We can all feel it—the summer heat is here. But you aren’t the only one feeling the heat; your car is too. During these hot summer months, there are a few things to keep an eye on when caring for your classic car.

With higher temperatures, our old rides tend to suffer a little more. Coolant temperatures spike, transmissions run hotter, carburetors run richer, paint bakes in the sun, and interiors dry out. While this may sound worrisome, there are several things you can do to keep your car in good running condition.

On the mechanical side of things, it’s always a good idea to give your cooling system a thorough inspection. Check for leaks, make sure the thermostat is functioning properly, and ensure there is no air trapped in the system. If everything is in good working order and you still see temperatures climbing, you can always add a coolant additive. Many of these products help reduce operating temperatures while also preventing corrosion within the cooling system.

Another component to pay attention to is the carburetor. As temperatures rise, the amount of available oxygen in the air decreases, causing your engine to run richer. If your idle speed is dropping, acceleration feels sluggish, or overall drivability seems to have deteriorated, it may be time to make a few adjustments to get things running properly again.

It’s also worth paying attention to the oil you’re using. Always refer to your owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommendations, but in some cases, a slightly heavier oil may be beneficial during extreme heat. As temperatures rise, oil viscosity decreases, and a thicker oil can help maintain proper lubrication.

It’s not just the mechanical components that are affected by the heat—your paint and interior can suffer as well. Keeping your vehicle waxed during the summer months helps protect the paint from the damaging effects of heat and UV exposure. A good coat of wax helps prevent the paint from drying out and losing its luster. Just be sure never to wash a hot car or wash it in direct sunlight, as this can cause stubborn water spots and make it more difficult to apply protective products.

As for the interior, it’s always a good idea to keep leather surfaces conditioned and treat vinyl, rubber, and plastic components with a quality UV protectant. This helps keep materials from drying out, fading, and cracking. It’s also never a bad idea to keep a sunshade handy to help reduce interior temperatures while the car is parked in the sun.

Last but not least, give those tires a thorough inspection. Higher temperatures can lead to increased tire pressure, so make sure your tires are inflated within the manufacturer’s recommended range. Proper tire pressure helps ensure safe operation and reduces the risk of a blowout. After all, nobody likes being stranded on the side of the road.