As we move towards the driving season, we begin to see the same pattern in the workshop each year. Cars come out of storage, owners are understandably eager to get back on the road, and within the first few drives, small issues begin to surface. In most cases, these aren’t major faults. But left unchecked, they can quickly develop into problems that interrupt what should be an enjoyable start to the season.

From our experience working exclusively with E-Types, a small amount of preparation now makes a significant difference to how the car performs, feels, and holds up over the months ahead.

Below are the five key areas we recommend checking before returning your E-Type to regular use.

1. COOLING SYSTEM HEALTH

Temperature management has always been a critical part of E-Type ownership.

The system itself is relatively simple, but it relies on a number of ageing components working together — hoses, clamps, radiators, header tanks and water pumps. Over time, these parts can deteriorate internally as well as externally.

A hose that appears sound can soften under pressure. A radiator may look clean externally but be partially restricted internally. Minor seepage can quickly become a failure once the system is up to temperature.

At this time of year, we regularly see cars come in with overheating issues that could have been avoided with a pre-season inspection.

2. BRAKING SYSTEM CONDITION

After a period of inactivity, braking systems are particularly prone to deterioration.

Brake fluid is hygroscopic (meaning it absorbs moisture over time), which can lead to reduced performance and internal corrosion. Seals can dry out, pistons can begin to stick, and discs can develop surface corrosion.

While the car may feel acceptable at low speeds, these issues often reveal themselves under heavier braking or once the system has warmed up.

A proper inspection ensures the system is operating as intended — which is essential not just for performance, but for confidence behind the wheel.

3. FUEL SYSTEM INTEGRITY

Modern fuels are less forgiving on older systems than they once were.

Fuel lines, seals and rubber components can degrade over time, particularly if the car has been standing. In carburetted cars, we often see blockages or poor running caused by residue build-up. On fuel-injected cars, pressure consistency and line condition become key.

The risk here isn’t just drivability — it’s also safety. Fuel leaks, even minor ones, should always be addressed promptly.

This is one of the most common areas we inspect at the start of the season.

4. SUSPENSION & STEERING COMPONENTS

One of the defining characteristics of a well-sorted E-Type is how it feels on the road.

When everything is working as it should, the car feels direct, composed and confidence-inspiring. When it isn’t, the change can be subtle — but noticeable.

Wear in suspension bushes, ball joints, dampers and steering components doesn’t always present as an obvious fault. Instead, it shows up as vague steering, instability under braking, or a general lack of precision.

These are often gradual changes, which makes them easy to overlook until they are properly assessed.

5. ELECTRICAL SYSTEM & CHARGING

Electrical issues remain one of the most common causes of early-season frustration.

After storage, batteries can weaken, connections can corrode, and charging systems may not be performing as they should. Even small resistance issues in wiring can lead to unreliable starting or inconsistent running.

Unlike some mechanical faults, electrical problems can be intermittent — making them particularly frustrating to diagnose once the car is back in use.

A simple pre-season check of battery health, charging output and key connections can prevent a disproportionate amount of inconvenience.

A BETTER START TO THE SEASON

None of the above is about changing the character of the car.

It’s about ensuring that when you take your E-Type out for that first proper drive of the year, it performs as it should — reliably, predictably, and in a way that allows you to enjoy it fully.

From our perspective, the difference between a smooth, enjoyable season and one interrupted by workshop visits often comes down to preparation.

PRE-SEASON INSPECTIONS AT E-TYPE UK

We offer a structured pre-season inspection tailored specifically to the E-Type, covering the areas outlined above along with a wider health check of the vehicle.

Each inspection is followed by clear reporting and recommendations, allowing you to make informed decisions about any work required.

If you would like to have your car assessed ahead of the driving season, or simply want to discuss any of the points raised above, feel free to get in touch with the team.