The aim of the research project, entitled Acoustic Emission Moni-toring of Historical Vehicles (ACUME_HV), is to develop a diag-nostic tool to help people in charge of historical vehicles (conser-vators, technicians, mechanics...) during the condition report and the maintenance of the engines. Ancient vehicles can be conserved statically or working. In this second option, historical vehicles can be started or used more or less frequently, depending on the purpose of the museum or the private collection. However, heritage institu-tions have always the responsibility to maintain the vehicle in a safe condition, for the artefact itself as well as for the driver, passengers and for the public.