For many people, owning a classic car is a source of great pride and enjoyment. Whether it's the nostalgia of a vehicle from your youth or the satisfaction of preserving a piece of automotive history, classic cars hold a unique place in British motoring culture.
However, keeping a classic car roadworthy requires attention, expertise, and an understanding of both legal requirements and mechanical vulnerabilities.
At White’s Bodyworks in West Sussex, we’ve worked on classic vehicles for over 25 years—everything from post-war saloons to vintage motorcycles. Check out our portfolio, here.
Here, we go through your responsibilities as a classic vehicle owner, the legal framework around MOTs and servicing, and why an annual check-up with a specialist garage is essential to keep your classic car safe, reliable, and enjoyable to drive.
One of the most common misunderstandings among classic car owners concerns the legal requirements for MOT testing and roadworthiness. While some older vehicles are exempt from MOT testing, this does not mean they can be driven without meeting road safety standards.
Under current UK law, a classic car may be exempt from the annual MOT test if it meets the following criteria:
This is commonly referred to as the Historic Vehicle MOT Exemption.
To qualify, the owner must declare the vehicle as a ‘Vehicle of Historic Interest’ (VHI) during the annual vehicle tax renewal. However, it is important to understand that MOT exemption does not exempt you from legal responsibility. You are still legally obliged to ensure your car is:
Even if your classic car is MOT-exempt, booking an annual inspection with a specialist garage like White’s Bodyworks is strongly recommended. Here’s why:
A full service for a classic car goes beyond basic oil changes. It requires careful, experienced examination by technicians familiar with older engineering and materials. At White’s Bodyworks, our classic car service typically includes:
All work is documented and discussed with the owner, and any potential future issues are flagged.
Classic cars are built with older materials and mechanical systems, which means they are more susceptible to certain faults—particularly if they’re only driven occasionally or stored for long periods.
Classic vehicles are especially vulnerable to rust, particularly on:
Moisture ingress, poor storage conditions, and historic repairs can all accelerate corrosion. Regular underbody checks and rust-proofing treatments are highly advisable.
Older braking systems, particularly those using drum brakes or early hydraulic systems, can suffer from:
Brakes should be tested thoroughly during each service, and older lines or components should be replaced with high-quality alternatives.
Classic engines can be prone to overheating due to inefficient radiators, worn water pumps, or blockages in the cooling system. Thermostats may also stick, and fans may not operate as expected.
Servicing should include flushing and checking coolant systems and ensuring the radiator cap maintains correct pressure.
Due to the change from leaded petrol to modern fuels with ethanol, classic fuel systems are at risk of:
Specialist garages will use ethanol-resistant hoses and check that fuel delivery is working as designed.
Classic car electrics are often a source of frustration, with:
These faults can affect ignition, lighting, and even charging. A full service includes battery testing, fuse and bulb checks, and examination of the ignition system.
Motorcycle owners face unique challenges when maintaining classic bikes. Limited weather protection, smaller tolerances, and vintage materials can all impact reliability and safety.
At White’s Bodyworks, we offer classic motorbike inspections and repairs, including:
Much like cars, classic bikes benefit from annual servicing—whether or not they’re exempt from MOT testing. We treat each machine with the same attention to detail, ensuring safe and enjoyable riding.
Classic cars that are stored for long periods require special preparation to avoid issues such as flat spots on tyres, battery drain, or fuel degradation. We recommend:
We can advise on best practices for winterising your classic vehicle or preparing it for long-term storage.
A well-documented service record is a valuable asset for any classic car. Not only does it help preserve the car’s value, but it also provides a clear record of maintenance and repairs over time.
At White’s Bodyworks, we supply detailed invoices and service logs for every visit. We also support owners who are restoring vehicles and want to build a comprehensive record for future sale or valuation.
With decades of experience working on both classic and modern vehicles, White’s Bodyworks is a trusted name in West Sussex for bodywork, restoration, and mechanical servicing. We offer:
We take pride in delivering work to the highest standards—whether it’s a simple oil change or a full restoration project.
Final Thoughts
Owning a classic car is more than just a hobby—it’s a commitment to preserving a piece of history. But with that ownership comes responsibility. Whether or not your car is MOT-exempt, the onus is on you to ensure it is safe, roadworthy, and properly maintained.
By scheduling regular servicing with a specialist garage like White’s Bodyworks, you can enjoy your classic vehicle with confidence—knowing that it has been carefully inspected and maintained by experts who share your passion.
If you own a classic car or motorbike and would like to book a service, inspection, or discuss restoration work, get in touch with our team today. We’re here to help keep your pride and joy in perfect working order.
Your classic car may be exempt from MOT testing if it was first registered more than 40 years ago and has not undergone substantial modifications in the last 30 years (such as changes to the chassis, engine, or suspension). To qualify, you must declare the vehicle as a Vehicle of Historic Interest (VHI) when renewing your vehicle tax. However, even if exempt, you are still legally responsible for ensuring the vehicle is roadworthy and safe to drive.
Yes, it is strongly recommended to have your classic car professionally serviced at least once a year, even if it’s MOT-exempt. Regular servicing helps detect and prevent faults, maintain safety standards, and ensure the vehicle remains reliable. It also helps preserve the car’s long-term value, especially if you’re keeping detailed maintenance records.
Modern petrol often contains ethanol, which can be harmful to older fuel systems—particularly rubber hoses, gaskets, and carburettors not designed to handle ethanol. Over time, it can cause deterioration, leaks, and blockages. If your classic car is affected, we can install ethanol-resistant fuel lines and advise on additives or upgrades to help protect your engine.
Yes. At White’s Bodyworks, we have extensive experience working on classic motorcycles as well as cars. Classic bikes have unique servicing needs, including frame checks, brake drum servicing, carburettor tuning, and chain adjustment. We treat each motorcycle with the same care and expertise we apply to classic cars, ensuring both safety and mechanical authenticity.
