Owning a classic car means keeping it in good shape and in driving condition can be challenge. However, there are some excellent car repair shops out there who specialize in working on older cars. Here are some things to consider when looking for a classic car repair shop.
First, a good classic car repair shop should have knowledgeable mechanics. If the staff does not know much about older cars, you may want to take your business elsewhere. A good classic car repair shop will have people who have experience with vintage cars and know what they are talking about when discussing repairs and maintenance of these older machines. If you find someone who knows about old vehicles and seems trustworthy, ask them if they are familiar with the make and model of your car. If not, do not be shy about asking them if they are open to learning more about your vehicle. Then they might be able to work on it if you bring your car back later.
Experienced Mechanics with Restoration and Repair Backgrounds
The best classic car repair shops have an in-depth knowledge of how automakers built cars back in the day. The certifications mentioned below are essential when choosing the right mechanic and car repair shop for your classic car. But what is even more critical is the mechanic’s hands-on experience repairing and restoring classic vehicles. Experts who specialize in fixing specific models of cars know what to look for and how to perform the repairs a vehicle might need. Likewise, mechanics specializing in repairing a particular car model understand the nuances of that car model. As a result, they are often able to spot issues mechanics who are less familiar with the car might miss. A car repair shop with a restoration and repair background will likely have several mechanics who specialize in the different models of vehicles they repair. And they can perform all the repairs your classic car requires, from oil changes to engine overhauls.
Trustworthy Mechanics Working at The Repair Shop
In addition to experience in repairing and maintaining older cars, you also want to find car repair shops with trustworthy mechanics who are ethical and honest. It is more challenging to discern trustworthiness than whether they know how to restore old cars. You should investigate the shop’s reputation and speak with other people who have used the shop. A trustworthy mechanic will do the work you need, charge a fair price, and provide you with a written estimate of the work and the costs involved. They will also advise you that the repair’s final cost will most likely exceed the initial assessment.
Tour The Classic Car Repair Shop
The most critical step in choosing a car repair shop to work on your classic car is to tour the shop and meet the owner. You can tell right away if they are successful by looking around. Do you see several classic vehicles under construction? You can even note some of the warning signs that you may be in the wrong place.
The Mechanics Are ASE Certified
ASE certifications are a standard credential for mechanics and other professionals in the auto industry. There are several different certifications that a mechanic can earn, but the most relevant to classic car owners is the ASE Blue Seal certification. You should ask about your mechanic’s ASE certifications and if they are current. ASE certifications are only valid for a certain number of years until the mechanic renews them. ASE Blue Seal certifications indicate that your mechanic has proven their knowledge of specific vehicle systems. The systems vary depending on the vehicle but are commonly things like brakes, drive systems, steering, and emissions. A car repair shop with a mechanic or two who has an ASE Blue Seal certification can help you with all your classic car repairs.
AAN Certification Held by The Car Repair Shop
The ASE certification is a must for all classic car mechanics, but there is a higher certification called the AAN. The AAN certification ensures that mechanics are experts on specific systems. For example, when dealing with electrical issues that can cause a fire, it is essential to have an expert working on your car. Mechanics with an AAN certification specializes in the electrical systems in vehicles, including the ignition and charging systems. It would help if you asked about your preferred car repair shop’s mechanics certifications. The more credentials, the better, but ASE and AAN certifications are the most important.
Finding a mechanic with ASE or AAN is excellent. However, the exams for ASE and AAN do not have questions about older vehicles. So, those certifications will not tell you how much a mechanic knows about repairing and restoring classic cars.
Do the mechanics give a written estimate with an itemized list of repairs?
If the car repair shop provides a written estimate and itemizes the repairs needed, that is a good sign. However, it is essential to understand that rebuilding or restoring a classic takes time. As you might imagine, a classic car restoration project has many twists and turns. We sometimes discover problems that add to the work list and cost more money. So, we do not recommend starting a classic car restoration project if your money is tight. You will most likely end up paying more than the beginning estimate.
Parts And Services Warranty
Some car repair shops offer an automatic warranty on all services and repairs, while others only provide a warranty on major repairs. You might ask about this before you commit to using a particular shop. You should also ask if the car repair shop offers a warranty on their parts. An upfront warranty can help ensure you do not get stuck with the bill if a part breaks down. In addition, a warranty on parts and services indicates that your shop is reputable. Your mechanic plays a vital role in helping you to maintain your older vehicle in excellent condition. Look for mechanics with a trustworthy reputation and proven experience working with older cars.
Finally
Judging the final product is the best way to evaluate the quality of any car repair shop. Choosing a classic car repair shop is an important decision that can affect your car’s performance and your wallet. It is essential to ask the right questions to ensure you are selecting a shop that is a good fit for you. A good shop will have the experience, knowledge, certifications, and reputation to do the work your vehicle requires. Your favorite classic car will thank you for it later. So, take your time in selecting the right classic car repair shop, it goes a long way to getting your classic car back on the road the correct way.
I have a classic car that I haven’t driven in about two weeks. It’d be nice to find a mechanic this week to see if the car is still driveable. Thanks for mentioning that some mechanics have an automatic warranty on their services.
It makes sense to find a car repair shop with experience in fixing all sorts of vehicles before entrusting your car to them. I have a friend that wants to restore his uncle’s old semi-truck for winter use. I will talk to him about repair shops and how they can help.