90-year-old grandfather leaves Ohio nursing home to see his Bel Air cleaned for first time in 52 years

Published on Jun 28, 2025 at 2:15 PM (UTC+4)
by Grace Donohoe

Last updated on Jun 25, 2025 at 1:45 PM (UTC+4)
Edited by Emma Matthews

This 90-year-old grandfather leaves an Ohio nursing home to see his Chevy Bel Air cleaned.

The classic had been sitting for decades and needed a little bit of TLC.

So, in a kind gesture, some guys decided to give it a new lease of life.

And the grandfather’s reaction was priceless.

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Bel Airs are an American classic car

The Chevy Bel Air is a classic loved by many, and if you look hard enough, you might even discover one or two in hidden barns.

For example, one YouTuber managed to find an incredible muscle car hoard in Oklahoma, which included a Chevrolet Bel Air.

Plus, one dad was surprised with a completely restored 1957 Chevy Bel Air on his birthday after countless hours and cash.

But, wait until you see the story behind this Bel Air.

Content creators wd.detailing shared a rather wholesome story of a 90-year-old grandfather from an Ohio nursing home and his love of cars.

The Grandfather had a love for the Bel Air

The 90-year-old, however, hadn’t actually seen his Chevy Bel Air cleaned properly in over 50 years, so after discovering the car in all its preserved glory, they decided to get stuck in and give it a facelift.

As it had sat still for decades, it needed more than a slight polish. But after the car was cleaned, it looked glorious. That wasn’t the end of it, though, as there was still one task left.

The owner was yet to see his prized possession cleaned up, so it was time for the big reveal.

The guys pulled up to the nursing home, ready to surprise the man.

“You guys did a nice job,” said the man

And, after all the hard work getting his Bel Air cleaned, it was only right that he got to take a seat inside for the first time in over five decades.

“It was a good car, it was a good deal.”

“You guys did a wonderful job.”

The story touched many hearts online, too.

“This is so sweet. Nice of you guys to spiff up his ride! Great memories for him,” said one user.

“You can see how special this was at the end with the reveal when he sat in it. Anyone else crying?” asked another.

“Such a kind thing to do! It’s a beauty,” said another.

You can catch all the heartwarming action at the top of the page.

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Grace started her career writing about the weird and wonderful for the international press. She's covered everything from lifestyle to sports and hard news and now finds herself pursuing her main interest - cars. She's loved cars from a young age and has a keen interest in luxury travel too.