When you buy a classic car, it isn’t a novelty—it’s an investment. If you make the wrong purchase, it may take you years to locate custom auto parts or find technicians who are skilled in classic car repair. Here are some do’s and don’ts to help first-time buyers avoid novices’ mistakes. 

Do:

Use an Inspector

Increasingly, people sell their vehicles online. Buyers and sellers may be in different parts of the country. But the number of pristine photos a seller posts aren’t substitutes for an expert, in-person evaluation. A car inspection will go through every component and system of the vehicle. Experts look for previous shortcut fixes or generic parts the seller may have used. If the vehicle is out of state, hire an independent inspector who will go out to the car. If the automobile is near you, find a classic car repair shop to do the inspection.

Buy What You Like

A classic car purchase is an emotional purchase. Many people dream of their vintage car for many years. So when you shop, stick to models you know you love. Another car may seem like a better deal, but if you buy a vehicle you truly love, you’ll still be happy with it even as the value goes up and down. 

Don’t: 

Ignore the vehicle’s history.

Getting a complete vehicle history with a classic car can be hard depending on how many owners there have been and how old the automobile is. Ideally, you should have a complete record of maintenance and classic car repairs from the most recent owner back to the automaker. 

Use standard insurance.

Standard auto insurance coverage usually covers collectible cars, but only up to the car’s current blue book value. For many antique cars, this value is underestimated. Instead, insure your vintage automobile with specialty insurance that covers an agreed-upon value. If possible, find an in-person agent, as specialty policies usually come with use restrictions and conditions that they can explain in detail. 

Clients from all over the country come to Lo-Man Rods in Tipp City, OH, for the highest-quality classic car repair, restoration, and custom auto parts. From classic vehicle repair to fabrication, the expert technicians at Lo-Man treat every vehicle like it’s their own. For more information on auto restoration or body repair, call (937) 679-5140 or visit them online today.