Can You Drive a Classic Car Without Seatbelts

November 30, 2021

12 Questions to Ask Before Buying A Classic Car

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When a classic car calls your name, you can't wait to get your hands on your new set of wheels. You won't have trouble finding old cars to restore for sale, but you should find the one that's best for you. These questions to ask before you buy a classic car will help.

How Much Rust Does It Have?

Although a few bubbles or surface rust shouldn't scare you away from your dream car, think twice before purchasing a rust-ridden vehicle. A vehicle with rust between the body panels or on the frame needs major body work to make it safe for driving.

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Is It Insurable?

Insurance needs for classic cars are different from those for daily drivers. You may need a policy that pays more than actual cash value if the car sustains damage in an accident. Check out classic car insurance policies before you go shopping and make sure you qualify.

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Who Sells Parts for It?

Finding parts to repair or restore classic cars can be a challenge, especially if you're buying a rare model and want original parts. Before you agree to buy one of the old project cars for sale, find out how easy it is to get parts for it.

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How Complete is the Car?

Project cars are great for people who have the time, money and skill to restore them. If you're willing to take on the project, find out how much work the previous owner did and what parts come with the car.

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Do You Have the Resources to Restore It?

Unless you're buying a completely restored model, you have to invest time or money in restoring it yourself. Think about how you're going to do this. If you enjoy working on cars and have the time, this can be a fun project. Otherwise, you're going to have to pay someone else to do the work.

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What Will You Do With It?

Before you shop for a classic car, think about why you want it. Do you plan to drive it on weekends? If so, you may not need to find a parts-matching original vehicle. Will you take it out only to show off at car shows? Think about how much you're willing to spend on a vehicle that you'll spend most of your time watching.

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Does the Car Have a Title?

Think twice before buying a car without a title. You may be able to apply for a new title, but it won't be easy to do, especially if the title is still in a previous owner's name. Save yourself the trouble and make sure the car has a title and the seller has it in hand.

How Original is the Car?

There are two reasons you should find out how much work previous owners did to the car. First, if the engine, paint color and accessories match the VIN, the car may be worth more money. Second, it gives you a clue about how much work you may have to do to bring it back to original condition.

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Who Did the Restoration Work?

No matter where the car is in the restoration process, ask who did the work. Some classic car enthusiasts enjoy working on their own cars. Others hire professionals for all or part of the work. Sellers who restore or repair their cars can give you detailed information about the car.

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Do You Really Like the Car?

In a perfect world, your classic car will increase in value over time but don't buy it as an investment. You should also avoid buying a vehicle just because it looks like a good deal. You're going to put a lot of time and money in the car, so choose the one you love.

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Is the Car Registered?

If you're looking for a car you can drive immediately, ask if it's registered. An unregistered vehicle probably spends most of its time in a garage. Cars do better when they get exercise, so a car that gets out on the road every once in a while may be more reliable than a showroom model.

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Why is It for Sale?

The answer to this question may not be a deal-breaker, but it can help you decide whether it's the right car for you. If the seller doesn't have time for the car or is tired of spending money on it, you may be talking to someone trying to pass on a problem.

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Mackinolty Criniveran