What to Check Before Buying a Classic

Buying a classic car without a thorough inspection is a recipe for financial disaster. Many serious problems can hide beneath a fresh coat of paint or a seemingly clean engine. At Gredos Garage we carry out professional pre-purchase inspections and share with you the key points we evaluate.

Bodywork and Structure

This is the most critical and expensive area to repair. Check:

• Panel gap uniformity: differences indicate repairs or accidents
• Bubbles or irregularities under the paint: signs of hidden rust
• Underside: look for perforating corrosion on chassis rails and cross-members
• Boot interior and under carpets: common areas for moisture accumulation
• Use a paint-thickness gauge: reveals resprays and excessive filler

Engine and Transmission

Start the engine from cold and observe exhaust smoke. Blue smoke indicates oil consumption; persistent white may point to a head-gasket issue. Listen for metallic noises, especially at idle. Check that oil pressure is correct and that there are no visible leaks. Test all gear changes, looking for noise or difficulty engaging.

Suspension and Steering

Bounce each corner of the car — it should settle in one rebound. Visually inspect dampers for oil leaks. On the test drive, verify that the steering has no excessive play and that the car tracks straight.

Electrical System

Check absolutely everything: lights, indicators, wipers, instruments, interior lights. Electrical problems in classics are common and can be very time-consuming to resolve.

Documentation

Verify that chassis and engine numbers match the paperwork. Request the MOT history, maintenance invoices and any historical documentation. A car with a complete history is worth significantly more.

Trust the Professionals

If you lack experience, commission a professional inspection. At Gredos Garage we offer a pre-purchase inspection service throughout Spain, providing a detailed report that will help you negotiate a fair price — or avoid a bad purchase altogether.