An essential 11 hacks for storing your classic car(s) safely

For both petrol heads and purveyors of classic cars and supercars, the perfect day out has to be at a luxury car show. It’s a great excuse for collectors and drivers to “peacock” their finest vehicles, while for some, it’s enough to look in awe and give an appreciative nod.

But behind every big day out on display is the ongoing task of safe storage and robust car security.  Here’s our top tips for making sure not every day is a display day for your classic car collection.

1. First and foremost, make sure your intruder and fire alarm are not just in good working order, but have been installed and maintained by a recommended, reputable firm. And of course, if your alarm goes off, it’s connected to an alarm receiving centre.
2. Are all windows and viewing points in your storage place covered? Unless you’re a showroom you really don’t want your precious cars to be seen.
3. What about CCTV? Have you ensured this is set up and working both internally and externally?
4. If you haven’t already, set up anti-ram bollards… they can be a very effective deterrent
5. Next up… has your storage place got all the right fire suppression equipment and protection? This means sprinklers/ and or water mist, as well as all the health and safety standard extinguishers.
6. If there has to be a swift evacuation, have you got an evacuation plan in place? If not, get one. And even if you have, does it account for enough space between vehicles so they can be removed in an orderly manner?
7. If you have a collection rather one or two classic cars, we recommend that you consider more than one storage facility. This separation reduces the risks faced when they’re all stored together.
8. For any maintenance, it’s best that this is carried out at a professional repair facility. Repairs and mechanics often involve chemicals, solvent etc, which are usually flammable, so by removing the car you’re removing the risk.
9. Keep up the good maintenance work of your storage place. That includes regular checks on electrics, gas, boilers, and water leaks, as well as ensuring there is no loose debris or tiles in the roof and ceiling.
10. Like any vehicle, regular use is a good method to ensure smooth running. And if taking it out for a drive isn’t necessarily an option, keep an eye on fuel and the battery as drainage may be your best option for a rarely driven vehicle.
11. Documents, manuals, spare keys, service book… keep them somewhere other than your car or storage facility. If something does happen to your vehicle, these items are essential, and you don’t want anything happening to them.

In summary, safe storage is critical for making sure your classic car remains a thing of beauty. So keep that Rolls under wraps, protect your Porsche from the elements and theft, and make sure that Merc is maintained in a safe place.