How much does it cost to restore a classic car?

When you're about to embark on a restoration, you need to consider not only the cost of the parts needed but also the fact that in many cases, you really won't get your money back on the car. There's no point beating around the bush here, the majority of the time a classic is the second car, basically just a grown up's toy for the summer and not a money maker.

Each car is different so we like to see the car with all its defects in either person or in photos, to give a true estimate of the cost. But I suppose you're here to learn if restoring your car is expensive. It is. It's very, very, extremely expensive so don't be shocked when we break it all down for you

What are the steps in restoring a classic car?

Just so you know, there really is no such thing as a 'typical restoration', as every car has its own unique personal history. From the initial construction at the factory through the years of maintenance and repairs, each car has its own particular strengths and weaknesses. A lot of these cars were hand-built, so things like door gaps on similar models are more than likely different!

Initial Meeting / Consultation This is pretty self-explanatory, we need to know what we're expected to do! Taking something and making it look good is the essence of our workshop, we know design and what will look good. But, this is where you need to tell us what work you would like carried out, how you want the car to look at the end, and most importantly what your budget is. We can give our opinion and advise you along the way. Actually, before we go any further, you should read this piece on pricing and values. Inspection We'll check out the car and see what the condition is like. Is it original, what parts are missing, what needs replacing... 'The List' is made here. Dismantling Every major assembly component is carefully stripped, with individual parts documented and photographed. Sub-assembly parts are grouped and bagged ready for refurbishment or replacement. This is a fancy way of saying your car is completely stripped out, and every part that is removed is safely stored. Media Cleaning Careful media blasting to return any corroded areas on the vehicle back to bare metal. Careful is the keyword here. This is followed by an inspection of the structural condition ahead of any metal rectification. Once the bare metal is exposed, these sections are given an initial coat of primer to protect against corrosion. Bodyshell Rectification Next up is the cutting out of any corroded metal. Rusty bits be-gone! New genuine panels or our fabricated panels are used in replacement and all types of welding are utilised throughout to ensure an authentic appearance. Component Refurbishment We've already checked the condition of every part we've taken off, so it's just a case of unboxing all the new pieces we've ordered (it's honestly like Christmas). Anything salvageable is then refurbished. However, seals, bushings, rubbers, nuts, bolts, brakes, pipes and hoses are always replaced. Then it's down to the overall finish you want on the car. It could be anything from how shiny do you want it, to fancying an uprated suspension or brake set-up... the list is endless, but thankfully you have us to advise you on what to replace and what will look best. Paint We use a unique 11-stage painting process, developed solely for the restoration of classic cars. The cabin, boot, underbody and under-bonnet areas are all sealed and protected, while our clear coat is brought to a mirror shine. Final Reassembly Fun time! A shiny shell with brand-new parts bolted on - what could be better! Protective covers are fitted over the body with any trim parts covered, and then any safety-critical fixings are replaced, fluids filled, and suspension and lights aligned before the final torque checks are applied to finish the reassembly. Then it's the setting up of the fuelling system and ignition timing, followed by the electrical system testing and.... vrooom! Sign Off Mileage testing is then carried out. Look, we built it so we deserve to drive it... maybe to the shops... the cinema even. This is probably the most important part. We will drive the car to bed everything in and double-check everything is good to go. Following this shakedown, the vehicle is re-inspected, it gets one last clean and wax and then we say our emotional goodbyes the night before the handover.

Welcome to Lyons Garages

Name: Lyons Garages Classic Car Restoration
Address: Spanish Point, Miltown Malbay, Co. Clare, V95EH27, Ireland
Telephone: 065-7084096

Ireland's leading garage for the restoration and servicing of classic sports cars.

Restoration Enquiry Service Enquiry

A 1981 Austin Mini 1000 which was fully restored in 2011. It had a new sill, front panel, and boot panel fitted during its restoration.

1981 Mini 1000 Restoration

Classic Sports Car Specialists

For decades we've been at the heart of automotive excellence in Ireland. Hundreds of cars have been lovingly restored in our home by the sea, with even more being expertly serviced. Don't hesitate to contact us by emailing info@lyonsgarages.com, or by calling 065-7084096. Lyons Garages in Spanish Point, Co. Clare - Your home for all things classic cars.

Our Services

Restoration

The world of cutting out rusty metal, fabricating new panels, welding, sanding, painting, and polishing! We specialise in full restorations, and our aim is to complete all work to the highest possible standard. Or 'The Lyons Garage' standard as it's now known.

Mechanical and Servicing

Are leaks staining your driveway? Car not driving as it should? Just not sounding right, or maybe it's time for a service. Fear not, we're here to help.

Upgrades

Maybe you've decided it's time to do some upgrades - better suspension, electronic ignition, stronger brakes, a shiny new interior, or perhaps you've decided that you'd like to do some subtle design changes to your car during a restoration.

From our Blog

We also have a Garage Blog, it's pretty much a public diary where you can find out what we've been up to each week, and see what's upcoming in the world of Lyons Garages.