The classic car restoration world can be a very friendly place for the automotive enthusiast, but it can also be quite unforgiving when dealing with the not so scrupulous restoration shop due to classic car restoration shop scams.
The quality and reliability of classic car restoration shops is going to vary just like any other industry. You are going to come across top notch companies that take great pride in what they do. You will also find companies that operate with less than honorable methods.
Unfortunately, there are shops out there that will cut corners and do what they can to make a quick buck. Most shops however would not stay in business very long if they operated this way. It is good to be cautious when hiring a company or individual, but have faith that with enough research you will find a reputable restoration shop.
If you take your time to ask the right questions you are likely to avoid falling victim to one of these fraudulent schemes as we provide further detail on how to investigate a restoration shop, so you have a better chance at making the right choice for your classic car restoration.
Today Only Specials
Any time you are planning to spend a lot of money on a product or service, a limited time offer should always be avoided. Companies use this tactic to limit the amount of time you must shop around for other prices. Their hope is that you will feel pressured to take the deal, so you don’t miss out on savings. A fair deal on expensive items should be consistently priced today, tomorrow and for the foreseeable future.
Complicated Terms and Conditions
If a restoration shop has a contract with confusing jargon and complex legal disclosures, you should see a red flag that they are trying to hide something. It is in everyone’s best interest to keep the agreement as clear and simple as possible. A good rule of thumb is to only commit to a deal that could be explained to a child. If not, our advice is to continue your search for another restoration shop.
Massive Down Payments
An initial down payment is often required to ensure you are committed to the project, but a large up-front sum of cash could be a sure sign of a scam. A business that is in financial trouble may require a large down payment. Even worse, there are heart breaking stories of people paying enormous upfront fees only to have the business close the very next day. Well established shops should require a minimal down payment and then require fair progress payments as work is done on your classic car or truck.
Avoid Absurd Promises
Plain and simple, if it sounds too good to be true, then it likely is. If a restoration shop offers you a bid that is half the price of other shops, then you are surely going to get half the quality. The fact of the matter is that a high-quality restoration is going to take some money to properly complete. It can be tempting to take the lowest price but do yourself a favor and pay the extra amount to have the job done right the first time.
Finally
The worst part of this is that the more dire you need for a professional restoration shop the more susceptible you are to be taken by the unscrupulous shop owner.
The bottom line is this… take your time when choosing a classic car restoration shop, avoid too good to be true scenarios and don’t be afraid to ask lots of questions. Doing so will ensure that you find a reputable business and will allow you to proceed with confidence.
