Restoring a classic car is a dream for many car enthusiasts. Unfortunately, if you have a tight budget, that dream can seem far away. The good news is, you don’t need a golden budget to restore a classic car. Let JD Auto Restoration show you how to restore a classic car on a budget.
Choose Your Car Carefully
First, choose the right car. That doesn’t just mean choosing the car you want, but one you know you can afford to restore. While that can mean spending a little more up front for, say, a vehicle that is still in running condition, it will save you a lot of money on the restoration when you don’t have to replace expensive engine parts.
Plan Ahead, but Don’t Buy Ahead
It’s a good idea to plan out your restoration and research pricing for parts and labor. However, don’t buy ahead until you’re ready to do specific work. While you might save time, you may also find yourself left with parts you don’t need.
Take Your Time
While you’re excited about your classic car restoration, don’t rush through it. Give yourself time to find good deals on parts that you need or save up for key parts of the restoration that you know will be more expensive. If you allow yourself time, it means you won’t be forced to pay premium prices to keep to a tighter schedule.
Join a Local Car Club
Take time to look for a local car club and join it. Membership in a car club will give you a community of people who can offer you advice on your classic car restoration. Sometimes you can also get savings on parts or services with local businesses the club partners with. One additional benefit is in the form of bartering. If you have skills that others might need, you may be able to barter your skills in exchange for parts or restoration services, helping you keep your restoration under budget.
Obtain an Owner’s Manual
The value of an owner’s manual can’t be understated when it comes to a classic car restoration. It is your best resource for researching parts for your car. It will also help you with the do-it-yourself portions of your restoration by giving you guidance on how to do minor repairs.
Are You Buying or Restoring a Classic Car in Huntingdon Valley, PA?
If you you’re buying or restoring a classic or want a new paint job for your current vehicle, contact us to schedule an appointment.