Passion alone isn’t enough to keep your classic car in good working order. In this guide we reveal how to find the right classic car parts for your pride and joy, covering everything from UK and overseas car parts shops, to owners' clubs, autojumbles, online marketplaces, specialist scrapyards and finding skilled technicians.
The UK has played a key role in the development of the motor car, particularly in the realms of law, infrastructure, and iconic design.
Indeed, in the 1910s and 1920s, the UK had the largest number of small-scale car marques, peaking at around 183 companies in 1922.
It's little wonder, then, that the UK has a strong classic car culture. Many thousands of enthusiasts put their passion into keeping all manner of vehicles in a roadworthy, and often aesthetically beautiful, condition.
But keeping these wonderful machines on the road is no easy task. Sourcing the right classic car parts is critical. Being able to do so impacts the authenticity of the vehicle, as well as safety and value retention.
As well as specialised parts sourcing, classic car owners need to organise specialised storage and administer intensive maintenance; good, experienced technicians are like gold dust.
In this guide we'll look at how to define your classic car and its needs, where to buy classic car spares, new, used and reproduction parts, legal and safety considerations, budgeting, working with mechanics, and tips for avoiding common pitfalls.
Define your classic car and its needs
First up, you need to confirm the exact model number, year of manufacture, and spec.
You'll then need to check the VIN/chassis and engine numbers.
After this, it's time to decide if you need (or want) OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer), new old stock (NOS), reproduction, or refurbished classic car parts.
You have to think about whether you want to prioritise originality or practicality.
Where to buy classic car spares in the UK
UK specialist classic car parts shops and suppliers
As you may or may not already know, in the UK there are model-specific specialists/car parts shops for marques like MG, Jaguar, Triumph, Mini, and Land Rover.
If you buy from an established UK supplier, you should benefit from reliability, smoother communication, and easy returns/refunds.
That said, it's important to check any supplier's reputation, by looking at online reviews such as TrustPilot, forums and club recommendations.
Always double check the warranty and return policies.
A list of useful websites for buying classic car parts/spares
NB: These websites are provided as an indication of what parts are available in the UK, and are not endorsed by startrescue.co.uk.
General classic car parts (various marques) | |
Antique VW parts | |
Classic American car spares UK | https://customville-american.co.uk/classic-american-car-parts-uk/ |
Classic Mini spares parts |
Owners’ clubs and enthusiast networks
The task of keeping your classic car in good working order will be easier if you can access as much know-how as you can.
With this in mind, consider joining a marque-specific UK owners' club, which should give you access to club spare parts schemes, member classifieds and swap meets, and last but not least, technical advice from experienced owners.
Autojumbles, classic car shows & swap meets
Keep an eye out for major UK events, such as Beaulieu Autojumble, and the NEC Classic Motor Show.
At such events you'll be able to inspect classic car parts in person, personally negotiate prices, and better understand what to look for when buying used parts.
Online marketplaces
eBay UK, Facebook Marketplace, and Gumtree are all great places to find used classic car parts, as are specialist platforms and forums.
However, you'll need to be mindful of potential scams, double check seller ratings, and ask as many questions as necessary to establish part compatibility. You may not have the same kind of protections as you would get from an established car parts shop or supplier.
Scrap and salvage yards
There are a number of classic-focused breakers' yards in the UK, which can be great sources of parts. However, while often cheap and in many cases original, their parts often come with limited (or no) warranty, and their condition and level of wear can be tricky to establish.
Additionally, taking the salvage yard route can be time consuming, not least due to the inconsistent/randomly-stocked inventory.
Buying car spares from overseas – what UK buyers need to know
If you're having trouble finding parts in the UK, you might consider buying from overseas. For instance, if you have a classic SAAB, you'll find there are more spares in Sweden, the marque’s country of origin.
However, you may have to pay 20% VAT (parts + shipping) upon arrival in the UK. But for older parts (30 years+) you may benefit from zero/reduced VAT and duties.
Since Brexit, importing from both EU and non-EU countries attracts the same or similar VAT/duty. Before Brexit, there was of course no VAT or duty to pay for goods imported from the European Union.
Also bear in mind it will take longer to get your parts, and there could be delays.
Any parts you buy from overseas car parts shops/suppliers must comply with UK vehicle regulations.
New vs used vs reproduction parts
When it comes to classic car spares/parts, the three choices are new (new Old Stock - NOS); reproduction; or used (original) - with new being the most costly, and used being the cheapest.
The kind of parts you buy could have implications for insurance and any agreed value policies.
Think carefully about quality (what brands/options do other owners of your model recommend?).
Reproduction parts are often a good option if original parts are hard to come by, too costly, or degraded. Similarly, reproduction parts might be your best bet if New Old Stock (NOS) parts cannot be sourced.
When caring for your classic car, you'll need to decide if you want to keep the vehicle's original patina (the natural ageing and wearing of the car's finish), or to do a full restoration.
The 'patina', or 'preservation' approach, could help boost the market value, but managing rust could be a challenge.
The 'full restoration' approach, meanwhile, could give your vehicle a showroom-new appearance, and better reliability (due to having newer parts). However, the cost of a full restoration could easily exceed the car's value.
Legal and safety considerations in the UK
If your vehicle was built or first registered more than 40 years ago, in most cases it won't need an MOT. However, MOT-exemption only applies if there have been no "substantial changes" (e.g., major engine, chassis, or steering alterations) made in the last 30 years. Owners must still ensure the car is roadworthy.
However, while not legally required in such cases, a voluntary MOT is recommended.
Your vehicle will also be exempt from Vehicle Excise Duty if it is more than 40 years old (and no "substantial changes" have been made in the last 30 years).
There may be insurance implications if you have made any modifications , so get in touch with your provider and tell them about any "substantial changes" you have in mind.
If you're upgrading/replacing safety-critical parts like the brakes, steering components, or suspension, you'll need to select certified products.
Budgeting and planning
It's important to set a realistic restoration or maintenance budget. Bear in mind any hidden costs related to delivery, refurbishment or fitting.
if you're in this for the long haul, consider bulk buying those often needed parts, and be sure to keep all receipts and update your records.
Working with mechanics and restoration specialists
If you need help with your general maintenance or restoration activities, you may benefit from the services of a classic car specialist in your area. While there is of course a cost associated, it may be easier and quicker to use such a service. In some cases it may also be cheaper (because it eliminates the chances of you causing more harm than good, particularly for complex maintenance issues).
You'll need to develop a sense of when you should Do It Yourself, and when you should call in the professionals.
When it comes to restoration specialists and garage work, it's critical you get written estimates as this acts as a legally binding contract that provides clarity, financial protection, and a detailed roadmap for what are often complex projects.
Unlike modern cars, classic vehicles have high restoration costs, unique parts, and frequent, unexpected issues (like hidden rust or engine damage) that make written documentation essential to prevent spiraling costs and going over that all-important budget.
Tips for avoiding common pitfalls
- Double-check part numbers
- Avoid cheap, low-quality reproductions
- Verify compatibility for UK-spec cars
- Inspect photos carefully when buying online
- Keep original parts wherever possible
Storing and maintaining your spare parts
During your time as a classic car owner, you'll likely build up a collection of spare parts. Ensure these are kept in suitable storage conditions (dry and temperature controlled). If you don't, you may spend time and money on finding yet more spares!
If you wind up with a lot of spares, ensure you label them properly and keep detailed inventory information.
Conclusion
As a classic car owner, you need to use all the tools and resources at your disposal to find the parts you need. When doing so, it's important to prioritise safety over aesthetics, while being mindful of protecting the value of your vehicle.
Be sure your maintenance or restoration activities stay within the confines of the law and keep your insurer updated as to any "substantial changes" you make.
Joining one of the UK's many classic car communities can be a great help when it comes to finding classic car parts and keeping your vehicle in good order. It’s also a lot of fun to interact with fellow classic car enthusiasts.
Above all, place an emphasis on patience and meticulous research in your hunt for spares.
