I have an M-plate Favorit Silverline that drove well and passed its last MOT without much trouble (I think a bit of welding had to be done around the front). However, it's been sat on my drive for the last five or six years. I keep getting offers from people who want to buy it, but how hard would it be to get it roadworthy again? I'm considering it.

The bodywork doesn't seem to have deteriorated at all -- just a few rust spots round the sills. What are the chances of getting it up and running again? I realise money will need to be spent. Before I fire it up again or attempt to move it, what precautions should I take? Or will it be too far gone and I should just get rid of it? That would be a shame. I'm no mechanic but I do have the Haynes manual. ;-)

Many thanks in advance for any advice.

Edited 18 April, 201511 yr by quixote1971

Welcome to BriSkoda!

Here is my advice for a car that sat exposed to elements for a long time.

• Change all fluids (fuel, oil, coolant, brake, etc.) and filters
• Install new battery
• Clean thoroughly the engine bay (dirt, leaves, rat nests )
• The tyres need to go too. They developed flat spots and they are cooked. Your life depends on them.

A pretty interesting task to do and keep us posted with what happens with the car. I am sure you won't have much trouble starting the car following the tips that our friend RicardoM provided but I also recommend to do the following in addition to the above tips:

 

• Change the spark plugs with new ones.
• Check the fuses and relays in the fuse box and make sure it did not develop any corrosion or is not damp or wet. replace damaged fuses and relays etc...
• disconnect the HT lead feeding the coil and check it is completely dry and corrosion free.
• Check the condition of the distributor cap especially for corrosion.
• Crank the engine a few times while the coil HT lead is still disconnected to allow some oil lubrication especially for the camshaft and end bearings and oil passages. Pay attention to any weird noises, knocking, metal grinding etc...

Good luck

Many thanks for the advice so far. Much appreciated.

Is the handbrake likely to be seized on? Should I do anything before attempting to move the car up and down the drive (assuming it starts!)?

Is the handbrake likely to be seized on?

 

I do not think it will be seized. Just get the car started and please take a video of that to share with us here. Can't wait to hear the good news

Should I do anything before attempting to move the car up and down the drive (assuming it starts!)?

Well, the obvious: brakes and steering. Pump the brake pedal few times then drive slowly and do a steering lock to lock test.