As the British motoring calendar shifts into high gear, two of the most prestigious dates approach fast: Salon Privé and The Concours of Elegance at Hampton Court Palace. These events are more than just showcases - they’re the pinnacle of automotive style, history, and prestige. Whether you’re entering a concours, preparing for a classic car tour, or consigning a vehicle to auction, now is the time to ensure your car is as ready as you are.
Mechanical check
Before you begin driving or transporting your prized possession, a full pre-event inspection is essential:
- Fluids: Check and top off engine oil, brake fluid, coolant, and gearbox oil.
- Brakes and tyres: Ensure tyres are correctly inflated and check for dry rot; inspect brakes for performance and pad life.
- Battery and electrics: Confirm battery charge and the operation of all lights and electrics - a faulty indicator could cost points or cause safety issues.
- Drive it, if you can: Even concours cars benefit from a short road test to reveal any issues with idle, overheating, or handling.
Engage a specialist familiar with your marque to carry out the inspection, especially if the vehicle has been dormant.
Transport
If you are not driving your car to the event, transport it with the appropriate care:
- Enclosed transport: A covered trailer protects against stone chips, rain, and prying eyes. It’s a must for concours entries or auction consignments.
- Tie-down points: Confirm your transporter uses soft straps and non-invasive securing techniques to avoid damaging fragile suspension or paint work.
- Timing matters: Book early. Premium events like Salon Privé and The Concours of Elegance coincide with high demand for specialist hauliers.
Don't forget to contact your insurance broker if your car is being transported as not all policies automatically cover it in transit.
Presentation
Once mechanics and logistics are sorted, presentation becomes key. Judging panels and potential buyers alike notice the smallest imperfections.
- Exterior: Use non-abrasive, pH-balanced products for cleaning and polishing. Pay close attention to trim, glass, chrome, and badges.
- Interior: Detail leather, wood, and carpets with correct materials for the era. Replace any missing or incorrect knobs or switchgear.
- Engine bay: An immaculately detailed engine bay can sway judges. But be careful, don’t over-polish components that were originally matte or unfinished.
- Documentation: Concours judges value authenticity. Prepare a portfolio with service history, provenance, restoration records, and period photographs.
If you’re auctioning your car, the catalogue photos and inspection condition will reflect your preparation and affect hammer price.
Insurance
Too many classic car owners focus on aesthetics and overlook a crucial part of event readiness: insurance. Now is the time to reassess your cover:
- Agreed value: Make sure your policy reflects current market value - prices have surged for certain marques. Underinsurance is common, especially for barn finds and lightly restored cars.
- Event cover: Confirm that your policy includes cover for display, transit, or even driving during tours. Some policies exclude track elements or public displays.
- Additional risks: Ask about cover for theft, vandalism, or accidental damage during concours or auction handling.
A quick call to our specialist Private Clients team could prevent a show-season disaster, especially as your car’s value might have quietly outgrown your existing cover.
Contact us today to ensure your cover is fit for purpose, allowing you to drive in style.