7 Things Every Classic Car Owner Should Do This Valentine’s Day

Valentine’s Day is here, and while the world scrambles for overpriced chocolates and last-minute dinner reservations, you’re faced with a much more important question: how do you show love to the ultimate companion in your life - your classic car?

Let’s be honest. Relationships come and go, but your Triumph, MG, Rover, Land Rover, Range Rover, Jaguar, or Mini has been with you through thick and thin. It doesn’t argue with you, judge your spending habits, or complain when you spend an entire weekend giving it the attention it truly deserves. So, this Valentine’s Day, let’s forget the cliché romance and focus on showering your beloved classic with the care and upkeep it truly needs.

1. Give It a Valentine’s Makeover

Your partner might expect a fancy night out, but all your classic car wants is a little TLC. A good clean, polish, and wax will have it gleaming like the first day you met. Dust off the dashboard, vacuum the carpets, and let’s be real - it’s time to replace that air freshener that gave up six months ago.

If you notice any marks on your fabric seats or carpet, treat them with a quality interior shampoo to restore their fresh look. For leather interiors, opt for a dedicated leather cleaner and care balm to nourish and protect the material, keeping it soft, well-conditioned, and looking as good as the day you first fell in love with it.

2. Address Those “We Need to Talk” Moments

Every relationship has its bumps in the road. But while your car can’t send passive-aggressive texts, it does drop hints that it needs attention.

Is your Defender making a noise that definitely wasn’t there last month?
Has your Mini’s clutch been acting up?
Are your Spitfire's brakes feeling more like a spongy plea for attention rather than a firm stop?

Don’t ignore the warning signs! This Valentine’s Day, commit to fixing those little issues before they turn into costly heartbreaks. Swap out old filters, check your spark plugs, and for the love of all things British, make sure your cooling system is up to scratch. Check the radiator for leaks, ensure the coolant is fresh and topped up, and inspect the hoses for any signs of wear or cracking. A properly maintained cooling system prevents overheating and keeps your classic running smoothly on long drives. Your car will thank you with a trouble-free ride.

3. Whisper Sweet Nothings (Or Just Fix That Exhaust Leak)

Nothing ruins a romantic drive like a car that sounds like it’s coughing up a lung. A fresh exhaust system will not only bring back that smooth purr you fell in love with, but it will also prevent you from trailing an unnecessary cloud of smoke every time you hit the road.

Check for rust, leaks, or any general signs of wear in the exhaust system. A corroded or damaged exhaust can impact performance, reduce fuel efficiency, and increase emissions. If you notice excessive noise, a drop in power, or a persistent rattling sound, it may be time to invest in a new silencer or even upgrade to a new exhaust system. Not only will this enhance the sound and efficiency of your drive, but it will also ensure your classic runs as smoothly and cleanly as possible.

4. Take It on a Romantic Getaway

You don’t need to book a candlelit dinner when you have miles of open road and a full tank of fuel. Treat your classic to a well-deserved outing - whether it's a leisurely cruise through rolling countryside, a thrilling drive along a breath-taking coastal road, or even an adventurous off-road trek for your rugged Land Rover.

After all, your car deserves to stretch its legs. Whether it’s the satisfying hum of a finely tuned engine, the smooth glide of well-maintained suspension, or the nostalgic thrill of a crisp February morning drive, these moments make all the time spent under the bonnet worthwhile. There's something magical about hitting the open road, feeling each gear shift smoothly, and hearing the perfect purr of an engine that’s been truly cared for.

5. Upgrade for a Longer-Lasting Relationship

Love is all about commitment, and let’s be honest—your classic car has always stuck by your side, whether it’s been the ever-reliable companion or the temperamental type that tests your patience. So why not invest in some long-term improvements?

New suspension parts for a smoother ride.
A high-performance clutch for your Defender to keep the adventure going.
A modern ignition system to make cold starts a thing of the past.

A little investment now can keep your beloved classic running strong for years to come. Caring for your car is like keeping a great relationship alive - except it runs on oil instead of wine and never gives you the silent treatment.

6. Let the World Know Who Your Real Valentine Is

Tired of seeing endless couple photos on Instagram? Make a statement. Post a picture of your true love—your classic car—with the hashtag #MyRealValentine. Bonus points if you include a heartfelt caption like:

“Forget candlelit dinners - garage lights are where the real romance happens.”
“They say love is timeless, and so is my TR5.”
“Find someone who looks at you the way I look at my perfectly tuned carburettor.”

Share your love for your classic and let the world know who your true Valentine is!

7. Apologize to Your Partner… in Advance

Look, we get it. Not everyone understands the depth of your love for your car. If your significant other rolls their eyes every time you mention “just a quick fix in the garage,” it might be time for some damage control.

Consider balancing things out with a small romantic gesture - perhaps a dinner reservation (as long as it doesn’t interfere with your oil change schedule). Or, better yet, get them involved! A couples’ detailing session, a scenic drive together, or even matching driving gloves could make for the ultimate Valentine’s compromise.

P.S. Special Deals!

Because we know how much you love your classic, here are some special offers we have running at the moment:

You can view more by clicking on the green 'Special Offers' tab at the bottom of your screen.