When scientists discovered the naturally-occurring mineral known as asbestos, they thought they had struck gold. It was available in abundance, had heat-resistant qualities, and was extremely versatile. But if it seems too good to be true, then it typically is. And that was certainly the case with asbestos. Instead of being functional, it was lethal.

It featured in everything from house insulation to building materials, clothing, and more. But did you know it was also present in cars? Read on to learn where to find it, and why it ended up there in the first place. 

Why did manufacturers use asbestos in cars?

It was a no-brainer for car manufacturers to use a material or substance that had all the qualities they needed. It had to be heat-resistant, functional, long-lasting, and versatile. Asbestos was all that and more.

The most crucial point, though, was the heat resistance. Parts of a vehicle that were subjected to significant friction needed something that wouldn’t wear down with heat, and asbestos didn’t. It was also flame-retardant, which made it ideal for firefighters’ suits.

At the time, there was very little else on the market that could match up to what asbestos could deliver, so it became the material of choice.

Why does it matter if my car contains asbestos?

You can define asbestos as non-friable and friable. When asbestos is non-friable, it’s secure, stable, and well cared for. For example, the bodywork of your vehicle may be in perfect condition, so the asbestos is non-friable.

But the problem lies in the friable asbestos. Friable asbestos can be crumbled or broken. It’s the materials containing asbestos that are not in good condition or won’t be if you start demolition.

On first thought, you might just think that matters because it will make a mess. As it turns out, it can have significant health implications. The fibres in asbestos, which are up to 200 times thinner than a human hair, can be inhaled and stick in your lungs. Within 30 to 40 years, those fibres can cause cancer and asbestosis.

Such is the risk of it that asbestos represents 76 per cent of all fatal ACC claims in the construction industry.

Where will I find asbestos in my car?

You won’t find asbestos in modern cars, but you will find it in old classic cars that were manufactured at a time when asbestos was used in everything. If you purchase the vehicle of your dreams intending to restore it, then treat it as though every part of it contains asbestos.

It used to be added to the lining and pads of brakes, in transmission parts, clutch discs, valve rings, and gaskets. Many cars even had it in their hood linings. If you plan on doing bodywork, then it’s crucial to know that even plastic bodywork, undercoating, and fibreglass may have asbestos lurking in it, too.

You may be aware that the garage your car is in can contain asbestos, but not everyone is aware that their beloved classic ride is a potential hazard, too.

I need to restore my car, so what do I do?

Knowing that classic cars can fetch millions of dollars in pristine condition, there can be a lot of motivation to restore a classic car. And there is no reason why you shouldn’t restore it. But you should certainly approach the project with a different level of care than a car built today.  

The first thing you need to do is invest in personal protective equipment (PPE). Disposable booties, overalls, and a P2-rated mask are all must-have pieces for your new restoration project. It’s also in your best interests to dispose of booties and overalls and change into clean clothes before entering your home.

Those undertaking restoration projects may also like to place particular emphasis on the equipment they use to do the job. For example, you shouldn’t use a blowgun for removing brake drum dust, or dust from the transmission housing. Instead, invest in a HEPA vacuum along with a negative pressure attachment.

The aim of the game is to cause as little disruption to parts that contain asbestos or could contain it, as possible. Maintain a fine moisture mist if you have to drill or cut any parts, or buy ready-to-install parts. If you are removing any old parts, double-bag them and dispose of them appropriately.

When in doubt, talk to your local classic car restoration business about anything else you can be doing to minimise the risk of exposure.

The risk of asbestos is still high

We may have banned the use of asbestos products years ago, but that doesn’t mean we are safe from exposure. If you suspect anything you are tinkering with contains asbestos, talk to your local removal experts about what to do next. It’s better to be safe than sorry.