A red C3 Corvette under a cover in a parking lot next to an 80 Corvette waiting on repairs; steps to avoid car restoration shop scammers for car success

Avoiding Car Restoration Shop Scammers

For many in the car hobby it is that time of year when thoughts turn to either seasonal car repairs or even a full vintage car restoration. Avoiding car restoration shop scammers is essential to ensure that your classic car restoration project goes smoothly and is completed to your satisfaction. The news still contains far too many restoration shop scammers out there taking advantage of the unsuspecting hobbyist. In the past we have discussed both how to locate a restoration shop, and the many warning signs of unreputable shops as well as shop scammers techniques.

When you finally own a restoration-worthy car, you will have to determine if you can perform any aspects of the rebuild yourself, or if you will have to farm out the entire project to specialists. If you reason that restoration is out of your league, the next step becomes the homework you will have to do to pick a restoration shop that will deliver the finished product you envision while remaining close to your budget and time schedule.

Looking down inside a classic car restoration shop with various work stations and project cars and frames; making sure you research companies to avoid car restoration shop scammers

Here are some tips to help you avoid falling victim to restoration shop scams:

Research and Verify

Conduct thorough research on restoration shops before making any commitments. Look for reviews, testimonials, and ratings from previous customers. Ask for recommendations from fellow enthusiasts or car club members.

Visit the Shop in Person

If possible, visit the restoration shop in person. This allows you to assess the shop’s facilities, cleanliness, and the quality of work on ongoing projects. A reputable shop should be open to such visits.

Check Credentials and Licensing

Verify that the restoration shop has the necessary licenses and certifications required in your area. A legitimate shop should be able to provide proof of its credentials. 

A view of a car restoration shop with Camaros and trucks under restoration; inspecting shop will help to avoid car restoration shop scammers

Request References

Ask the restoration shop for references from previous clients who have had similar projects completed. Contact these references to inquire about their experiences with the shop.

Review the Contract Carefully

Before signing any contracts, review them carefully. Ensure that all terms, including project scope, timelines, costs, and payment schedules, are clearly outlined in writing. Never rely solely on verbal agreements and it is wise to have an attorney review the contract before signing.

Get Multiple Quotes

Obtain written quotes from several restoration shops for your project. This allows you to compare costs and evaluate whether the quotes are reasonable and competitive.

Check for Insurance

Ensure that the restoration shop has insurance coverage that includes liability for any damage to your vehicle while it’s in their possession. Request a copy of their insurance policy for verification.

Beware of Upfront Payments

Be cautious of shops that demand large upfront payments before any work has started. Reputable shops may request a deposit but should not require the full payment upfront. 

Establish a Payment Schedule

Set up a payment schedule based on project milestones. Pay for completed work as agreed upon in the contract. This helps ensure that the shop remains motivated to progress efficiently.

Restoration Contract

Make sure that the shop provides a written contract for all their services and parts for your review and legal opinion to be signed by both parties prior to giving any deposits and/or your vintage car.

Ask About Subcontractors

Inquire whether the restoration shop uses subcontractors for any aspects of the project. If they do, make sure those subcontractors are reputable and properly licensed.

Document Everything

Keep detailed records of all communications, including emails, text messages, and written agreements. This documentation can be valuable if any disputes arise.

Ask About Parts Sourcing

If the restoration project involves sourcing rare or hard-to-find parts, ask the shop how they plan to obtain these parts and verify their authenticity.

2 trucks iin a restoration shop, one being a red Chevy pickup and the other being a green Ford panel truck with parts in the background on wall shelves; it is important to know where parts come from to avoid car restoration shop scammers

Trust Your Instincts

If something doesn’t feel right or you have doubts about a restoration shop’s legitimacy, trust your instincts and consider seeking services elsewhere.

Seek Legal Advice as Needed

If you encounter issues with a restoration shop that you believe may be fraudulent or unethical, consult with a legal professional to understand your rights and options.

Stay Involved in the Process

Stay actively involved in the restoration process, ask questions, and request regular updates. A reputable shop should be transparent about the progress of your project.

A cartoon with a mechanic in gray overalls holding a wrench and spark plug standing the rear of a toy red Ferrari with the bonnet open

Finally

By following these precautions and conducting due diligence, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to car restoration shop scams and increase the likelihood of a successful and satisfying restoration experience for your classic car. As the old saying goes “measure twice, cut once” and this is true when selecting a restoration shop to work with not to mention your gut instinct concerning the shop owner. If you do get involved in a restoration gone badly, the best advice is to cut your losses and move on as dumping more into the shop inevitably does not result in the success you are looking for.

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