As summer fades and the last of the show season draws to a close, many classic car owners turn their attention from the open road to the workshop. Autumn and winter provide the perfect months for restoration projects. A time to tinker, repair, and refine before unveiling your pride and joy again in spring.
At Moto-Lita, we’ve seen thousands of classic car interiors transformed over the colder months. Whether you’re embarking on a full rebuild or just refreshing your cockpit, here’s how to make the most of the winter workshop season.
Set the scene: get your workspace winter-ready
A good restoration starts with a well-prepared space. Before you lift a spanner, make sure your workshop or garage is organised, dry, and well lit.
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Lighting: Natural light fades quickly in winter, so add LED task lights or strip lighting to reduce eye strain and help you spot imperfections.
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Temperature and ventilation: Cold air and condensation can make working conditions uncomfortable. It can also affect varnishes, adhesives, and paints. A small space heater and good airflow can make all the difference.
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Tools and storage: Organise your tools and label parts as you go. A tidy workspace saves time and keeps your restoration enjoyable rather than stressful.
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Sustenance: Make sure you have plenty of tea, coffee or your favourite drink on-hand!
Inspect before you restore
The off-season is the perfect time to look closely at your car, especially at components you might overlook during the summer months.
Check your:
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Interior fittings: Cracked dashboards, worn switchgear, and faded trim can all be repaired or replaced over winter.
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Seats and upholstery: Look for fading, sagging, or cracked stitching that could use attention. Likewise, if your leather looks a little worn or unloved, try one of our Leather Works wax dressings from our sister company to bring it back to life. See https://flying-jacket.com/collections/accessories/products/leather-works-wax-dressing.
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Steering wheel: Often the most tactile part of your car, the wheel tells you a lot about its use and history. If it’s worn, uncomfortable, or mismatched with your interior, now’s the ideal time to upgrade.
- A new Moto-Lita steering wheel can completely transform your driving experience, not just visually, but in comfort and control. Each one is handmade in Hampshire using traditional methods that ensure it feels right from the first turn of the wheel.
Plan your restoration timeline
Whether it’s a minor refresh or a major overhaul, pacing your project helps prevent frustration. Break the winter into manageable phases:
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Strip and assess – remove components, clean, and inspect what can be reused.
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Repair and refinish – restore parts, repaint where needed, or polish up the brightwork.
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Upgrade and install – fit new parts such as a Moto-Lita wheel, boss, and matching accessories.
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Final fit and test – check everything’s secure, aligned, and ready for spring.
Taking your time through each phase ensures your car will be as reliable as it is beautiful when the warmer weather returns.
Add your personal touch
Restoration isn’t just about renewal. It’s about expression! Whether you’re returning a vehicle to its original spec or subtly modernising it, the steering wheel is your most personal choice.
With Moto-Lita, you can choose from hundreds of styles; flat, dished, wooden, leather, suede, or Alcantara. Each one is customisable in size, grip, and spoke finish. Or, for something truly unique, our craftsmen can create a bespoke wheel, built to your specification right here in Hampshire.
Looking ahead to spring
Before long, the days will lengthen, the roads will dry, and the season will begin again. The satisfaction of pulling the dust cover off a car you’ve worked on all winter is second to none, especially when the first thing your hands touch is a Moto-Lita wheel.
So this winter, embrace the calm of the workshop, take your time, and make something truly special.
Your classic deserves it!
Start your winter project today with Moto-Lita: See https://www.moto-lita.co.uk/collections/steering-wheels