Getting behind the wheel of a classic car after purchasing it at an auto show can feel slightly intimidating. None of the dials look familiar, and the handling is completely different from a modern vehicle. Here’s a guide you can follow to alleviate some of the nerves and fully enjoy the ride.

4 Tips for Driving a Classic Car

1. Check the Brakes

Many of the older cars that appear at auto shows tend to have the original drum brakes. While they may seem to be in pretty good condition, it’s always best to have an experienced mechanic take a look. Issues within these systems can be costly to repair and may require switching to disk brakes to ensure the vehicle’s safety.

2. Start the Engine

Some classic cars come with a component that’s known as a choke, which allows the driver to determine how much fuel mixes with the air in the engine. Begin by setting the engine to burn more fuel than usual. You’ll notice a strong smell as the engine warms up. Once the engine reaches optimal temperature, readjust the choke to reduce the amount of fuel that it releases.

3. Set the Ignition Timing

Auto show vehicles may also contain an ignition timing system. This can either delay or advance the spark plug to compensate for the engine’s temperature. If it’s cold, then you’ll have to advance the ignition timing so that the mixture of air and fuel doesn’t take too long to burn. For engines that are already warm, drivers will need to delay the spark to prevent the fuel from burning too quickly.

4. Test the Steering

The steering may be a little stiffer in classic cars than it is in their modern counterparts. This is largely because power steering wasn’t introduced to the industry until the mid-1900s. If you’ve never driven a vehicle without power steering, take some time for practice. Becoming familiar with how it handles will increase your confidence and could reduce the chances of endangering other drivers while out on the road.

If you’re in the market for a classic car or have several antiques to sell, plan a visit to the Charlotte AutoFair in Mecklenburg County, NC. This automobile show has been gathering collectors, sellers, and buyers together for over 30 years and features an expansive selection of antique cars. Spots are available in the upcoming spring and fall auto shows, so call (704) 841-1990 to secure your reservation. Vendor information is also available on their website.