1. Safety First:
* Location: Work in a well-ventilated area, away from any open flames. Old cars can leak fuel, and fumes can be deadly.
* Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Wear safety glasses, gloves, and possibly a respirator depending on the condition of the car's interior.
* Fire Extinguisher: Have a working fire extinguisher readily available.
2. Preliminary Assessment:
* Check Fluids: Open the hood and inspect the engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and transmission fluid (if automatic). These are likely to be degraded, contaminated, or completely absent. Do not attempt to start the car if any fluid levels are critically low or appear severely contaminated.
* Battery: The battery is almost certainly dead. You'll need a battery charger or jump starter. Check the battery terminals for corrosion; clean them thoroughly if necessary.
* Tires: Check tire pressure and condition. They might be flat or severely deteriorated.
* Fuel: Old gasoline can gum up the fuel system. You might need to drain and replace the fuel tank contents. Consider using fuel stabilizer in fresh fuel.
3. Attempting to Start (Only After Fluid Checks & Battery Charge):
* Charge the Battery: Fully charge the battery using a trickle charger. A quick jump start might not be sufficient, as the battery may be sulfated.
* Fuel System: If you suspect fuel issues, you might need to use a fuel system cleaner or have the fuel tank cleaned and flushed by a professional.
* Try to Start (With Caution): Once the battery is charged, try starting the engine. Do not crank the engine for extended periods. If it doesn't start immediately, stop and reassess.
* Listen Carefully: Listen for unusual noises during cranking. Unusual grinding, knocking, or other noises indicate potential engine problems.
4. If It Starts:
* Let it Idle: Let the engine run for a short time (10-15 minutes), but monitor the temperature gauge closely.
* Check for Leaks: Check for leaks in the fluids.
* Drive Carefully: Take the car for a short, careful test drive.
5. If It Doesn't Start:
* Professional Help: You'll almost certainly need the help of a qualified mechanic. They can diagnose and repair any issues, including a potentially seized engine, clogged fuel system, electrical problems, or other issues caused by prolonged sitting.
Important Considerations:
* Age of the Car: A car that has sat for ten years will likely require significant work, regardless of whether it starts or not. Budget for potential repairs, which could be very substantial.
* Rust and Corrosion: Expect significant rust and corrosion, especially on the undercarriage and body.
* Safety Concerns: A car that hasn't been driven in ten years might have several safety-related problems, beyond just mechanical issues. Brakes, steering, and other systems may be compromised.
In short: Don't attempt this lightly. It's far safer and often more cost-effective to have a mechanic assess the car before attempting to start it. The costs of repairs after a failed attempt to start could far outweigh the cost of a professional inspection.
