We receive a large number of emails daily and would love to answer them all. Unfortunately, there just isn't enough time in a day. If you have general questions relating to classic cars, please check our frequently asked questions below before sending us an email.
Although we have owned, driven and restored a variety of makes and models of classic cars, we do not profess to “experts” on all cars. If you have a question concerning a problem with your classic, post it on the About Classic Cars Forum. We read the Forum regularly and if we don't have the answer, there’s a good chance another classic owner has had the same issue and is only too willing to help and advise. You will find that classic car enthusiasts are very generous with their time and knowledge.
Although we have owned, driven and restored a variety of makes and models of classic cars, we do not profess to “experts” on all cars. If you have a question concerning a problem with your classic, post it on the About Classic Cars Forum. We read the Forum regularly and if we don't have the answer, there’s a good chance another classic owner has had the same issue and is only too willing to help and advise. You will find that classic car enthusiasts are very generous with their time and knowledge.
F.A.Q.
- Q. Which is better purchase option for the first time classic car owner, to buy a restored or unrestored car?
- A. Only you can answer that question because it depends on what you like doing, what you’re capable of doing and what you want an older car for. If you want to enjoy your classic from the day you own it, then a restored classic would be your best choice. However, if you are a person who likes to resurrect something that others think is beyond rescue, is patient and has a steady supply of cash to pour into a project - then an untouched, original project car could be the more rewarding option.
- Q. How can I be sure that I am buying a solid car that has been properly maintained and restored?
- A. Do your homework on the make, model and year of the car you are interested in. Know what it should or shouldn’t have in the engine, body and interior. Use any classic car price guide for reference and be wary if the car is priced much lower than it should be according to its condition. Check out our How To Inspect a Classic Car page – inspect the car using every point on the checklist before making an offer.
- Q. Should I have my classic car appraised?
- A. Owners of both modern and classic cars can benefit from a professionally done appraisal. Issues involving disputes with insurance companies, matters of probate, estate taxes and charitable donations would require the assessment of a professional appraiser.
- Q. Can I insure my classic with the same company I insure my modern cars through?
- A. That really depends on what company you insure your modern cars with. Two of the most well known collector car insurers are Grundy Worldwide and Hagerty. We suggest you review their policy features before talking with your insurance provider in order to properly compare coverage. One feature that we find most important is the ability to use our own mechanic for repairs.
- Q. Where can I find technical support for restoring my classic car?
- A. One of the first places we go to for help is our local owner’s car club - there's always someone who has had a similar issue and worked out how to fix it. Parts suppliers are also a good source for part installation documents or publications that are available for purchase. At Amazon.com you’ll find general restoration guides, but for factory manuals and literature on all makes and models, check out Faxon Auto Literature or Haynes Repair Manuals