Checklist for buying a classic car

If you are thinking of investing in your first classic automobile, then you need to ensure you are ready to do so. Being ready will mean something different for everyone. For some, it will mean being financially ready, while for others, you will need to ensure you have the paperwork prepared.

There is a large list of things you need to consider, so a checklist of items to sort before buying a classic car will be extremely helpful.

To help you on your new journey, here is a detailed checklist that incorporates everything you need to consider and prepare for your purchase of a classic car.

Before purchasing a classic car

Check you have your finances in order

The first and most important thing to put at the top of your checklist when you are preparing to purchase a classic car, are your finances. A classic car is a large investment, so you need to ensure you are not putting yourself in the red by purchasing one.

You should make sure you have the cash readily available to put down a deposit and/or make the purchase. Without it, you will not be able to. Make sure you enquire with the dealership or the private individual the available means of purchasing the classic car, so you can check that off your list.

Check you have any paperwork you may need handy

Just like when you purchase a large ticket item, or an ordinary car, you will need to provide a variety of paperwork if you are purchasing the classic car through a dealership. More often than not, you will need to provide your personal identification, such as your driving licence.

You will also need to provide proof of address through the form of utility bills. If you are purchasing a classic car privately, then check with the seller if they have any requirements. Gather everything you need ready to tick this item off your list.

Check online for trustworthy dealerships

An important thing to check off your list when preparing to purchase a classic car, is finding a trustworthy dealership. You can do this by conducting research online and visiting them in person. You will be able to see for yourself who they are and check their legitimacy. Check online reviews and speak to them to get a feel for what they are like.

Check online and conduct research relevant to classic cars

As well as preparing a list of trustworthy car dealerships to visit, you should also conduct research and sort out which classic cars you are interested in purchasing. This is a vital first step to tick off your checklist, as you may find you get overwhelmed in a dealership, or lack the knowledge to make an informed decision.

Adding thorough research to your checklist before you purchase a classic car, will help you go a long way when it comes to choosing the perfect vehicle. Research will tell you what to expect from the vehicle, what to look out for, what is a fair price to pay and what upkeep and maintenance that is required to keep it in good condition.

When you have found a classic car

Check the classic car by taking it for a test drive

You should add a test drive to your checklist of things to complete when purchasing a classic car. This task is vital if you are purchasing a classic car that is not one you are intending to build, as you want to ensure that you are purchasing something that works. It will be a lot of money that you are spending, so you want to make sure you are getting your money’s worth.

A test drive will ensure nothing is wrong or being hidden from you. It will also help you decide if it is the right car for you, and if you like the feel of it. It is easy to make a decision based on the way the car looks, but you may have a completely different opinion when driving it.

Check the results of an inspection

Adding an inspection of a classic car that you find to your checklist of things to sort before you make a purchase is very important. A valuation of the vehicle will provide you with some important details, such as the true condition of the car (even the parts that are visibility clear on the exterior).

It will also ensure that you are paying a fair price, ensure that the car and all its parts are legitimate and provide you with important details such as the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN).

Community

A helpful, but not necessary thing to add to your checklist of things to do before buying a classic car is to find a community. There are many classic car communities that you can join all over the United Kingdom (UK). This can be helpful as you will be able to speak to other enthusiasts and gain support, help and advice.

Local garage

Before purchasing a classic car, it is important that you find a reputable Auto Repair professional. This is because a classic car will need a lot of care and maintenance if you want to keep it in good condition.

You want to make sure that you have a trusted professional who can help with services and repairs where needed. This should be on your checklist before you purchase the car, so you are fully prepared if something were to happen.

After you have purchased the classic car

Paperwork

Make sure you add to your checklist to obtain all the relevant paperwork for the vehicle, and have a safe and secure place to store it where it will not get lost, damaged or stolen. You will need the paperwork from the previous owners, for all work that has been completed, as well as any new paperwork completed for your purchase.

This will ensure that if you ever encounter any problems, you will have proof it is your vehicle. It will also come in handy if you ever sell it or need to prove its value.

Insurance and tax

Before you hit the road, you will need to have all the relevant insurance and tax registered to the vehicle. This will ensure you do not run into any problems, and you can ride away in your new pride and joy with ease.