If you own a classic car, you may have been told to be careful in the summer because your car is more likely to overheat and break down. Is this true? Are classic cars more prone to overheating? Read on to find out.
Are Classics More Susceptible To Heat?
The answer to this question is yes because most classics come from a time when technology wasn’t as advanced and safety standards weren’t as strict as they are today. Most classic cars lack the extreme weather testing and electric fans of modern models. They also don’t have designs suitable for today’s driving conditions, where we go faster and further than ever before.
However, keep in mind that your car’s exact risk depends on its age and whether you’ve made any mods to it. Generally, the older and more original the car, the more at risk it is. But if your vehicle is on the younger end of the scale or you’ve replaced many of its older, outdated components, then your risk is lower.
Signs Your Classic Is Overheating
There are a few revealing signs that your car is overheating:
- Unusual smell
- Slow acceleration
- Steam from under the hood
- Temperature gauge on “H”
If you notice one or a combination of these signs on the road, pull over immediately, turn your car off, and call an auto professional for advice on how to proceed. You should avoid driving an overheating car, as this will cause more damage to the engine and can even lead your vehicle to break down fully.
How To Prevent Overheating
Fortunately, there are a few ways to prevent your classic from overheating. Replacing old and worn-down engine components like radiators, belts, hoses, and thermostats can help immensely. So can staying on top of regular maintenance and inspecting your car frequently so that you can identify problems before they get out of hand.
So are classic cars more prone to overheating? Yes. But by properly preparing your car for summer and being vigilant, you can stop overheating before it starts.
