Enquire
Call
MENU
menu-image.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale
Search
Call
Enquire
3 Minute Read

Keeping a Classic Car in London

Posted by - Tim Earnshaw on 5 May 2020 (Updated 24 September 2020)
Categories: Advice, Classic car storage
Keeping a Classic Car in London

VM917:15

Contrary to what you may think, maintaining a classic car in London is not simply about keeping it clean and safe.

Classic cars do require significantly more care than their modern counterparts and it is far more important to treat and preserve your vehicle’s engine and gearbox, check the tyres, keep the fluids topped up and to drive it as often as you can.  We’ve put together some helpful pointers below:

1. Check all fluid levels regularly

Make sure you check all fluids, including the oil, coolant/antifreeze, brake fluid and transmission fluid on a routine basis – you cannot assume that everything is going to be as you left it.

2. Check tyre pressures

Classic cars with older tyres, may be more prone to gradual deflation or punctures, so keep an eye on this, to ensure your car remains ready to drive.

3. Run the engine regularly

Starting the car every couple of weeks is a good idea, as it will recharge the battery and allow fluids to circulate through the engine. It also gives you peace of mind that your vehicle is ready to go when you feel the urge to drive it. If you can place the battery on an automatic battery conditoner to keep tip top but this isn’t always easy in London car parks etc.

4. Clean the car after every drive

If you do decide to take your car out for a spin, it’s important to clean it afterwards, as even on dry days salt and grit from roads can get on the undercarriage of your car which could cause all sorts of problems if left unchecked. Wash the sills and undercarriage with a hose and try to dry off any moisture before putting it back in the garage.

When driving around London and particularly in heavy traffic in a classic car, you may be at risk of overheating, breakdown or other issues.  It is therefore wise to keep the following helpful items in the boot of your car or at home easy to hand:

  • Automatic battery conditioner (at Windrush we strongly recommend CTEK battery conditioners)
  • Bluetooth battery condition recorder which links to your smartphone
  • Jump leads
  • Tyre pressure gauge
  • Spare oil and coolant
  • High visibility jacket for you and any passengers
  • Up to date service records

Finally, it is also worth noting that, for classic car owners, the Ultra-Low Emission Zone (ULEZ) doesn’t presently offer a concern, as cars manufactured before 8 April 1979 were instantly exempt when the scheme was introduced, and other cars are subject to a 40-year rolling rule provided the vehicle in question is registered as a historic vehicle.

In secure car storage at Windrush, we keep all our clients’ cars on the button in a secure, controlled environment alleviating many of the risks detailed above. By carrying out all the above checks in a documented, routine fashion, our dedicated team of storage specialists ensure no stone is left unturned.

Every vehicle is accessible with same day notice, and our clients can use their cars as often or as little as they wish knowing everything is good to go.

Should you have any questions about Windrush Car Storage, please do not hesitate to contact us.

Two highly-secure locations

Cotswolds
Car Storage
Located in the Cotswolds our private car storage facility is highly secure, anonymous, climate controlled and full staffed
Details & Pricing
London
Car Storage
Located in the heart of Central London with easy access to the Central Line, Hammersmith & City Line and overground services
Details & Pricing
Get in touch
Call Cotswolds +44 (0) 1451 821 008
Call London +44 (0) 207 458 4418
london-ultra-low-emission-zone-ulez-main-original-1.jpeg?w=1024&h=768&scale
2 Minute Read

What does the new Ultra-Low Emission Zone…

Read Article
The new Ultra-Low Emission Zone (“ULEZ”) has seen a few common questions raised by car owners in London.…
Read Article
The new Ultra-Low Emission Zone (“ULEZ”) has seen a few common questions raised by car owners in London. What does this new zone entail? Where is the ultra low emission zone in London? ULEZ will cover the same area as the existing Congestion Charging Zone initially, with an expansion due on 25th October 2021 which will see the zone expand as far as the North and South Circular. Unlike the Congestion Charge, which stops pre-7am and post-6pm weekdays and entirely at weekends, ULEZ runs 24/7, 365 days a year. How much is the ultra low emission zone charge? The cost of entering the ULEZ in an ineligible vehicle is £12.50 per day, one pound higher than the Congestion Charge and is charged on top of the Congestion Charge – should you venture in with an ineligible vehicle and during Congestion Charge Zone hours you will be charged for both at a cost of £24. The penalty charge for not paying your ULEZ charge is £160, reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days. Why was the ultra low emission zone charge introduced? ULEZ has been created to reduce emissions within London and as such a vehicle’s eligibility is based on its emissions. For classic car owners this new zone doesn’t presently offer a concern, as cars manufactured before 8 April 1979 were instantly exempt when the scheme was introduced and other cars are subject to a 40 year rolling rule provided the vehicle in question is registered as a historic vehicle (therefore if your car was registered on 20th May 1979, from 20th May 2019 your car will be ULEZ exempt provided it is registered and taxed as a historic vehicle). Which cars will be most affected by the ultra low emission zone charge? The burgeoning modern classic movement will be arguably the most affected by ULEZ, with ever popular models such as the BMW E30 from the 1980s or the Porsche 993 from the 1990s to be charged under the ULEZ scheme until they reach 40 years old. For supercars and other modern vehicles, the general ULEZ requirements are that the vehicle meets Euro 4 emissions standards for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel. The ULEZ is enforced based on the declared emissions of the vehicle rather than the vehicle’s age, but broadly speaking petrol cars first registered with the DVLA after 2005 meet the required standards and diesel cars first registered with the DVLA after September 2015 are also of the required standard.
the-benefits-of-professional-london-car-storage-main-original-2.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale
4 Minute Read

The Benefits of Professional London Car Storage

Read Article
On or off-street, multi-storey car parking or those fortunate enough with private garaging cater for many of the…
Read Article
On or off-street, multi-storey car parking or those fortunate enough with private garaging cater for many of the many cars in London. Whether classic, prestige or an everyday car you don’t use everyday, all cars need to be cared for when you’re not using them. Living in London can create time, space and security concerns when it comes to looking after your pride and joy in London. Professional car storage companies provide services catering for all areas, especially London, offering affordable and easy solutions. Here are some of the reasons why it’s important to consider professional car storage in and around London. Security One of the main concerns of car ownership in London I would say is the security of your car for both theft and damage. We’ve all seen cars keyed; number plates torn off or cabriolet roofs torn parked at the side of the street and winced. What can you do? Private Garaging Whilst a private garage in London might protect your pride and joy from vandalism, the elements including tree sap, leaves and bird droppings, it will only keep it dry and out of direct sunlight. There is a lot more to maintaining a vehicle in tiptop condition than simply parking indoors, especially when considering classic car storage. We need to consider the environment, flat batteries and time to manage these. Flat Batteries When you’re not using your car in London another aspect to consider is how well your car ages whilst not is use, as bizarre as it might sound; cars are designed to be used. Long term car storage at your home may create some unwanted, and frustrating problems if you leave the car unattended and unused for a long period of time. A lack of use can create problems with batteries going flat, tyres developing flat spots and the cars ancillary systems developing faults, including air conditioning systems developing funny smells. Time vs. care Living in London also has its time constraints and can limit how we maintain and care for our cars. We are all very busy with our own lives and often overlook when our car may need a service, MOT, taxing or repairs undertaken. Whilst some garages offer a collection and delivery service, this still requires our input to monitor and manage these intervals and take time out to make appointments with the relevant supplier. The Solution; Professional Car Storage Companies A viable alternative would be to keep your car with a professional car storage company. These companies often have secure, locked and alarmed facilities, and offer a wide range of expertise when catering for clients of all needs from short term to long term car storage and everyday to classic car storage. Storage areas are often climate controlled to prevent rust forming without drying tyres and leather excessively. Batteries can be connected to automatic battery conditioners and regular exercise programs to counter potential lack of use problems, which can occur often with long term car storage at home without the appropriate attention. Exercising the car creates similar conditions to using the car but within a safe environment using an indoor rolling road. Wheel bearings and tyres are rotated with brakes used and air conditioning systems turned on lubricating themselves avoiding the nasty smell linked to a lack of use. Trusted car storage companies can be given a spare key for the car so even after a weekend of fun with your pride and joy they can collect from your chosen location with their transporter, return to their facilities and take care of everything from routine services through to full restorations without eating into your time. Photographic updates of progress can be emailed to clients without the hassle of chasing contractors and arranging work yourself. Summary With many car storage companies based within a two hour drive of central London they make for a fantastic excuse for a trip out of the capital and a pub lunch in glorious surroundings. With secure, climate controlled facilities, exercise programs and an array of services caring for your car on offer its easy to see why people are increasingly trusting their pride and joy with the professionals. If you’re pressed for time many companies offer collection and delivery services to suit you. A professional car storage company can save you valuable time and maintain your pride and joy with the utmost care and attention. Windrush Car Storage look after many clients who are from London. Based in the heart of London and the Cotswolds, we specialise in the storage of all types of prestige, classic and everyday cars, from short term to long term car storage.
  • classic-car-ownership-in-london-how-can-the-correct-storage-help-main-original-1.jpg?w=1024&h=682&scale
    5 Minute Read

    Classic car storage in London – How to protect a prized vehicle in the capital

    Read Article
    Owning a classic car in London is a joy. Not only do you have the chance to dive into a city populated by petrolheads with a penchant for vintage machinery, but every week you’ll find countless events and meetings to attend across the capital. Classic car storage in London is a different matter, however, and when it comes to your vehicle’s downtime, it pays to have a strategy. So whether you’re considering your first vintage purchase, or are years into the love affair, let our guide shed some light on the pitfalls that can be avoided with Windrush’s London car storage.
  • london-ultra-low-emission-zone-ulez-main-original-1.jpeg?w=1024&h=768&scale
    2 Minute Read

    What does the new Ultra-Low Emission Zone in Central London mean for car enthusiasts?

    Read Article
    The new Ultra-Low Emission Zone (“ULEZ”) has seen a few common questions raised by car owners in London. What does this new zone entail? Where is the ultra low emission zone in London? ULEZ will cover the same area as the existing Congestion Charging Zone initially, with an expansion due on 25th October 2021 which will see the zone expand as far as the North and South Circular. Unlike the Congestion Charge, which stops pre-7am and post-6pm weekdays and entirely at weekends, ULEZ runs 24/7, 365 days a year. How much is the ultra low emission zone charge? The cost of entering the ULEZ in an ineligible vehicle is £12.50 per day, one pound higher than the Congestion Charge and is charged on top of the Congestion Charge – should you venture in with an ineligible vehicle and during Congestion Charge Zone hours you will be charged for both at a cost of £24. The penalty charge for not paying your ULEZ charge is £160, reduced to £80 if paid within 14 days. Why was the ultra low emission zone charge introduced? ULEZ has been created to reduce emissions within London and as such a vehicle’s eligibility is based on its emissions. For classic car owners this new zone doesn’t presently offer a concern, as cars manufactured before 8 April 1979 were instantly exempt when the scheme was introduced and other cars are subject to a 40 year rolling rule provided the vehicle in question is registered as a historic vehicle (therefore if your car was registered on 20th May 1979, from 20th May 2019 your car will be ULEZ exempt provided it is registered and taxed as a historic vehicle). Which cars will be most affected by the ultra low emission zone charge? The burgeoning modern classic movement will be arguably the most affected by ULEZ, with ever popular models such as the BMW E30 from the 1980s or the Porsche 993 from the 1990s to be charged under the ULEZ scheme until they reach 40 years old. For supercars and other modern vehicles, the general ULEZ requirements are that the vehicle meets Euro 4 emissions standards for petrol and Euro 6 for diesel. The ULEZ is enforced based on the declared emissions of the vehicle rather than the vehicle’s age, but broadly speaking petrol cars first registered with the DVLA after 2005 meet the required standards and diesel cars first registered with the DVLA after September 2015 are also of the required standard.
  • the-benefits-of-professional-london-car-storage-main-original-2.jpg?w=1024&h=683&scale
    4 Minute Read

    The Benefits of Professional London Car Storage

    Read Article
    On or off-street, multi-storey car parking or those fortunate enough with private garaging cater for many of the many cars in London. Whether classic, prestige or an everyday car you don’t use everyday, all cars need to be cared for when you’re not using them. Living in London can create time, space and security concerns when it comes to looking after your pride and joy in London. Professional car storage companies provide services catering for all areas, especially London, offering affordable and easy solutions. Here are some of the reasons why it’s important to consider professional car storage in and around London. Security One of the main concerns of car ownership in London I would say is the security of your car for both theft and damage. We’ve all seen cars keyed; number plates torn off or cabriolet roofs torn parked at the side of the street and winced. What can you do? Private Garaging Whilst a private garage in London might protect your pride and joy from vandalism, the elements including tree sap, leaves and bird droppings, it will only keep it dry and out of direct sunlight. There is a lot more to maintaining a vehicle in tiptop condition than simply parking indoors, especially when considering classic car storage. We need to consider the environment, flat batteries and time to manage these. Flat Batteries When you’re not using your car in London another aspect to consider is how well your car ages whilst not is use, as bizarre as it might sound; cars are designed to be used. Long term car storage at your home may create some unwanted, and frustrating problems if you leave the car unattended and unused for a long period of time. A lack of use can create problems with batteries going flat, tyres developing flat spots and the cars ancillary systems developing faults, including air conditioning systems developing funny smells. Time vs. care Living in London also has its time constraints and can limit how we maintain and care for our cars. We are all very busy with our own lives and often overlook when our car may need a service, MOT, taxing or repairs undertaken. Whilst some garages offer a collection and delivery service, this still requires our input to monitor and manage these intervals and take time out to make appointments with the relevant supplier. The Solution; Professional Car Storage Companies A viable alternative would be to keep your car with a professional car storage company. These companies often have secure, locked and alarmed facilities, and offer a wide range of expertise when catering for clients of all needs from short term to long term car storage and everyday to classic car storage. Storage areas are often climate controlled to prevent rust forming without drying tyres and leather excessively. Batteries can be connected to automatic battery conditioners and regular exercise programs to counter potential lack of use problems, which can occur often with long term car storage at home without the appropriate attention. Exercising the car creates similar conditions to using the car but within a safe environment using an indoor rolling road. Wheel bearings and tyres are rotated with brakes used and air conditioning systems turned on lubricating themselves avoiding the nasty smell linked to a lack of use. Trusted car storage companies can be given a spare key for the car so even after a weekend of fun with your pride and joy they can collect from your chosen location with their transporter, return to their facilities and take care of everything from routine services through to full restorations without eating into your time. Photographic updates of progress can be emailed to clients without the hassle of chasing contractors and arranging work yourself. Summary With many car storage companies based within a two hour drive of central London they make for a fantastic excuse for a trip out of the capital and a pub lunch in glorious surroundings. With secure, climate controlled facilities, exercise programs and an array of services caring for your car on offer its easy to see why people are increasingly trusting their pride and joy with the professionals. If you’re pressed for time many companies offer collection and delivery services to suit you. A professional car storage company can save you valuable time and maintain your pride and joy with the utmost care and attention. Windrush Car Storage look after many clients who are from London. Based in the heart of London and the Cotswolds, we specialise in the storage of all types of prestige, classic and everyday cars, from short term to long term car storage.
View all Articles
Enquire Today
Google Rating
5.0