How Much Would It Cost to Rebuild a Car? How to Figure that Out
What factors influence the cost of rebuilding a car?
1. Model of the Car
When it comes to rebuilding a car, there are many factors that can influence the cost. These factors include the body and frame’s overall condition, the rarity of the vehicle and how easily replacement parts can be found, the number of parts needed, unique upholstery and convertible top selections, elegant powertrain and chassis upgrades, non-salvageable power train parts (if any), and the quality of the restoration (e.g. 100-point show car).
In addition, the cost may also be affected by the make and model of the car, its starting condition, the desired finished condition, who is doing the work (you, a shop, or hybrid), the timeline of the project, the availability of a garage, and the availability of salvaged parts. Also, the geographical area you are located in may affect the cost as the availability and pricing of parts may vary depending on the location. It’s important to consider these factors when estimating the cost of restoring a classic car.
How Much Does it COST to Rebuild a SALVAGE Car?
2. Amount of Work Needed
Rebuilding a car can be a daunting task, but it is achievable with the right tools and preparation. Before starting your project, you will need to decide the desired level of restoration you are looking for. Do you want a pristine show vehicle or just a street legal car for some fun cruising? Once this is determined, you will need to create a list of what needs to be done and source all the necessary parts.
The following steps outline the necessary work needed to rebuild a car:
- Safety first: check for any safety issues and make sure the car is able to be safely worked on.
- Disassemble the car: remove all parts and components from the car. This is often done in the reverse order of how the car was originally assembled.
- Clean and inspect all parts and components: check for any signs of wear, damage, rust, and repair or replace as necessary.
- Paint and polish: prepare the bodywork, paint, and polish and prepare the interior accordingly.
- Reassemble the car: reassemble the car with all the new parts and components.
- Electrical work: inspect, repair, or replace all electrical components and wiring.
- Final inspection: check the car over to ensure everything is working correctly and make any necessary adjustments.
- Get it road-ready: get the car inspected and registered for road use.
Rebuilding a car requires a lot of time, patience, and skill. Depending on the level of restoration, you may require the help of a mechanic, a garage to work in, and a good amount of space. Costs can vary greatly and it’s important to factor in labor costs, parts costs, and any additional costs such as taxes, shipping, and rags. Having a plan and a budget in place before you start the project can help you stay within your means and keep the project on track.
3. Quality of Parts
When restoring a classic car, there are several factors that influence the cost of replacing parts. Most importantly, the overall condition of the body and frame will determine how much work needs to be done and how many parts need to be replaced. The rarity of the vehicle and the ability to source replacement parts will also affect the cost. Additionally, you need to consider upholstery, convertible tops, powertrain and chassis upgrades, and non-salvageable powertrain parts, as these can all increase the cost.
On top of the price of the parts themselves, you also need to factor in shipping and labor costs. Furthermore, for cars that are more than 30 years old, there may be hidden problems like moisture exposure, dirt, and rusted bolts and screws that can add to the cost. Finally, the quality of the restoration and whether it needs to be a 100-point show car will also influence the price.
4. Labor Costs
The labor costs associated with rebuilding a car can vary depending on the tasks and the difficulty level of the job. The average hourly labor charge for an auto mechanic is upwards of $70 per hour, and that rate can increase for very specialized services. Common tasks such as disassembly and assembly of the suspension, steering, brakes, drivetrain and accessories, as well as cleaning and painting the body/trunk/Undercar, interior and under hood, can range from $30,550 to $65,000 in labor costs. It’s important to be prepared for the possibility of unexpected finds during the restoration process, which can increase the total labor cost.
5. Parts Needed
Rebuilding a car requires a variety of parts, depending on the condition of the car. Generally, new parts must be replaced to ensure the car runs optimally. This includes parts such as the engine, timing belts, water pump, cam and crank seals, oil pan gasket, valve cover gasket, degree wheel, ball peen hammer, torque wrench, full socket set, screwdrivers, bumpers, seats, steering wheel, hard tops, wheels/rims, dash, seals, levers, exhaust, and more. It is important to source parts of original quality to ensure the car’s resale value. Additionally, consider the cost of labor, tools, and any import fees associated with parts shipped from other countries. With a showroom car, many parts must be replaced or completely rebuilt and finished. Lastly, when restoring a classic car, the total cost of parts alone could be upwards of $10,000.
6. Manufacturer Warranties
The cost of rebuilding a car can vary significantly depending on the manufacturer’s warranty. If the car is still covered by a factory warranty or extended auto warranty, then the cost of rebuilding or replacing the engine may be negligible. However, if the engine is not covered by a warranty, then it can be quite expensive. This is because new parts tend to be quite expensive, and even replacing a used engine can cost over $4,000. In addition, the mechanic may need to replace other parts such as the timing belts, water pump, cam and crank seals, and oil pan gasket, which can add to the cost. Finally, if you’re doing it yourself, you’ll need to invest in the necessary auto repair tools such as a degree wheel, ball peen hammer, and a torque wrench.
7. Convenience
The cost of convenience when rebuilding a car can vary greatly depending on the parts needed and the type of car being rebuilt. When searching for car parts, the easiest place to shop is online, as it allows you to easily compare prices from different stores and find exactly what you need. However, online stores may charge extra for shipping, so it’s best to check for junkyards or car parts stores near you. If you’re struggling to find a part, mechanics may be able to help, though they will likely charge extra for labor.
For those looking for top-tier quality, 2Refinish offers classic cars for sale that have been through their workshop, though this will likely cost more than other options. Additionally, for those who want the convenience of car shopping without the hassle, CoPilot is a great option that can help you find the best car listings in your area, and even help you sell your car for free. However, convenience often comes at a cost, so it’s important to review all of your options before deciding to rebuild your car.
8. Customization
The cost of customizing and rebuilding a car depends on the level of restoration desired. For a full frame-off restoration, the costs can include bodywork, interior updates, electrical system repairs, brake repairs, transmission repairs, and more. These costs can range from as little as $1,000 to as much as $8,000 or more, depending on the extent of the work needed. Additionally, parts may need to be sourced from the US or UK, which can be expensive and time consuming.
9. Material Costs
Rebuilding a car can be a rewarding and challenging experience, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. Depending on the vehicle and the condition it is in, the total cost of parts alone could be upwards of $10,000. This includes the cost of the part itself, any necessary shipping costs, 25% markup for rare parts, and any additional fees for parts shipped from another state or country. In addition to parts, labor costs should be considered as well. If you’re doing a ground-up restoration, the total cost of parts will be a significant portion of the total cost.
For a classic car, the main factors that determine the cost of restoring a car include the vehicle’s overall condition and rarity, the number and type of parts needed, special upholstery and convertible top selections, and powertrain and chassis upgrades. If you are only doing basic maintenance such as mechanical tune-ups and aesthetic touch-ups, this could cost around $12,500. However, if you are looking to do a full-on restoration, the cost can range from $2,000 to $15,000, depending on the initial condition of the car, the degree of restoration needed, and the upholstery and bodywork that needs to be done.
10. Experience Level of Mechanics
Experience level of mechanics can have a significant impact on the cost of rebuilding a car. An experienced mechanic may charge more per hour than an inexperienced one, but they will likely be able to get the job done faster and with higher quality. Experienced mechanics are also more likely to have specialized tools and knowledge to diagnose and fix problems quickly. Additionally, they may have access to better parts or be able to find a more cost-effective solution.
However, if you plan to do the work yourself, you should still be aware of the potential pitfalls that come with inexperience. An inexperienced mechanic may make costly mistakes that can end up being more expensive than hiring a professional. Thus, it is important to research and compare the prices and experience of different mechanics to ensure that you get the best results for your money.
How to estimate the cost of rebuilding a car?
Step 1: Determine the type of car you drive and its engine size. Smaller four-cylinder motors will cost far less to rebuild than big V8s.
Step 2: Have your car disassembled and stripped down to its frame. Label and decide which pieces need to be replaced.
Step 3: Decide on the level of restoration, finish you want; Concours, a showroom level finish, or something more modest?
Step 4: Get a quote for parts needed for the restoration process.
Step 5: Calculate the cost of labor for the rebuild.
Step 6: Estimate the cost of reassembling the car.
Step 7: Factor in the cost of any warranties that might cover the engine rebuild.
Step 8: Do a cost-benefit analysis to determine whether it is more cost-effective to rebuild or replace the engine, or to junk your car and buy a new one.
Step 9: Consider how long you plan to keep your car and which repair option you choose. A salvaged engine generally won’t have as many miles left as an OEM, remanufactured or rebuilt engine.
FAQ
What is the process of rebuilding a car?
The process of rebuilding a car’s engine involves multiple steps and requires careful research and review of the removal and rebuild procedures for your specific make and model.
Step 1: Drain the coolant and oil.
Step 2: Get the engine ready for removal by removing all plastic covers, the radiator, disconnecting the battery/starter, exhaust manifolds, air compressor and belts, and detaching the engine from the transmission.
Step 3: Attach an engine hoist to the engine, unbolt the engine from the motor mounts, and hoist the engine up and out of your vehicle.
Step 4: Mount the engine onto an engine stand.
Step 5: Take the engine apart and remove all accessory components, belts, bare components, push rods, rocker arms, cylinder head, camshaft, timing chain, and piston rod caps.
Step 6: Inspect large components, such as the crankshaft, for damage and replace them if necessary.
Step 7: Clean all engine parts and prepare them for reassembly (including the parts which are replacing old parts).
Step 8: Reassemble the engine.
Step 9: Reinstall the engine.
Step 10: Obtain a VIN number and replace the pistons, if necessary.
Step 11: Rebalance the engine and replace any worn out bearings.
Step 12: Purchase a new oil filter and a dedicated break-in oil.
Step 13: Dismantle the car’s engine, including the ignition and fuel systems, and remove the transmission and exhaust system.
Step 14: Purchase a new engine block and cylinder heads and reinstall them.
Step 15: Install the piston rings and reinstall the engine block.
Step 16: Vary the engine’s RPM during the first firing to ensure optimal oil flow.
How much does a car rebuild cost?
The cost of rebuilding a car engine can vary widely depending on the make and model, the type of engine, and the mechanics you go to. Generally, an engine rebuild will cost between $2,500 and $4,000 but could be more depending on the extent of the damage. In addition to the cost of parts, labor costs can be significant as the rebuilding process can take up to two weeks and involve many intricate processes. Finally, the location of the auto shop can also have an effect on the cost of the rebuild.
What parts are included in a car rebuild?
A car rebuild typically includes replacing the valve springs, oil pumps, bearings, chains, timing belts, seals, rings, crankshaft, camshafts, engine block and possibly aligning the crankshaft main bores. It is important to ask the mechanic how the engine rebuild is done before committing to the work, as the process will vary depending on the type and extent of damage to the engine. In addition, it is important to be aware if a one to three-year limited parts and labor warranty is offered, and if so, read the fine print to know what is covered.
What is the cost of a car restoration?
The cost of restoring a car can vary greatly depending on the make and model, as well as the extent of the work that needs to be done. The average cost of a classic car restoration project is between $1,540 and $7,700, including materials and labor, although some projects can be more complicated and expensive. In addition, more difficult projects may require sourcing parts from around the world, which can significantly increase the total cost.
What are the steps in a car restoration process?
Step 1: Determine the Level of Restoration Needed
The first step in any car restoration is to assess the current condition of the vehicle, and decide what level of restoration you are looking to achieve. Are you aiming for a pristine show vehicle, or just want it to be street legal? Is a frame-off restoration necessary or will basic body work and interior updates suffice? Knowing what you want to accomplish before starting a restoration project is essential.
Step 2: Create a List of Parts That Need to be Replaced
Once you have an idea of your restoration goals, make a list of all the parts that need to be replaced or repaired. This includes any body panels, electrical components, brakes, and transmission parts. Consider sourcing parts from specialty stores or online vendors to save money.
Step 3: Choose a Restoration Shop
Choosing the right restoration shop to work on your car is essential. The Hagerty Expert Repair Network can help guide you to a shop that specializes in classic vehicles and offer quotes for parts and labor.
Step 4: Allow for Unexpected Costs
Major restoration projects can be costly and time-consuming. Allow for unexpected costs and plan for delays, as some parts may not be available and entire body panels may need to be fabricated.
Step 5: Dismantle and Strip the Car
Once you have chosen a restoration shop, the first step is to disassemble the car and strip it down to its bare frame. Every part will be removed from the chassis and labeled to determine if it needs to be replaced.
Step 6: Reassemble the Car
Once all the parts have been ordered and received, it’s time to start the reassembly process. All parts will be inspected and repaired or replaced as necessary. The car will then be reassembled and any necessary body work and refinishing will be completed.
Step 7: Test Drive and Final Touches
Once the car is fully reassembled and running, it’s time for the final touches. This includes any additional mechanical work or detailing needed before the car is ready to be driven. Take your car for a test drive to ensure everything is working properly before you enjoy the fruits of your labor.
What is the difference between a car rebuild and a car restoration?
Car rebuilds and car restorations have some important differences to consider when deciding which route to pursue with your classic car. Rebuilding a car requires replacing major components, like the engine and transmission, with new or remanufactured elements. This is a more cost-efficient option than restoring a car, and it allows you to customize the car to your liking. A rebuild is also typically faster and easier to complete than a restoration, as it focuses on the internal components and does not require as much attention to aesthetics.
On the other hand, car restorations focus on making a car look, feel, and, for all intents and purposes, exactly the way it was when it rolled off the production line. This kind of restoration is often referred to as a “Concours d’ Elegance” and is the most expensive and complex approach. It involves restoring all components to their original design and specifications, including the body and mechanics, and it often must be done with original parts. A traditional restoration may use replica parts in place of originals if they are too worn or broken. This type of restoration is more focused on the exterior of the car and is more labor-intensive.
Ultimately, the choice between a car rebuild and a car restoration will depend on the budget and tastes of the car enthusiast. With a car rebuild, you can customize the car to your liking and save some money, but the car won’t look as pristine. With a car restoration, you can achieve a near-factory look, but it will be more expensive and time-consuming.
What are the typical repair costs associated with a car rebuild?
The typical repair costs associated with a car rebuild typically range from $2,500 to $4,000, depending on the make and model of the vehicle, the parts that need to be rebuilt, and the auto shop that performs the service. Other factors that can affect the cost include the extent of the damage, the type of engine, and whether the engine is still covered under warranty. Parts such as the cylinder head, motor, or pistons are more costly to rebuild and may need to be replaced. The labor involved in rebuilding the engine will also affect the price. If it’s just something simple like replacing the seals or bearings, you can expect a lower repair bill.
What are the most important safety considerations when rebuilding a car?
When rebuilding a car, it is important to consider safety first and foremost. Here are some of the most important safety considerations to keep in mind when restoring an old car:
- Decide what level of restoration you are looking for and create a running list of repairs that need to be done. If you do not have much knowledge of car mechanics, it is recommended to seek help from a professional.
- Consider the cost of parts and the time it will take to complete the project.
- Be aware of any faulty ignition wires or excessive oil consumption or white smoke coming from the exhaust which could be a sign of needing a rebuild.
- Ensure you have matching chassis, engine and gearbox numbers for a successful rebuild.
- Aim for originality when acquiring parts and avoid purchasing parts with no originality.
- Make sure the brakes, transmission, and electrical system are in good condition.
- Ensure all parts are in good condition and are properly secured when rebuilding the engine.
- Follow safety protocols and wear protective gear such as gloves, goggles, and masks when handling fluids, chemicals, and other hazardous materials.
- Ensure that any hazardous materials are properly disposed of.
- Be mindful of any local or state regulations that may apply to your restoration project.
What tools are necessary for a successful car rebuilding?
What tools are necessary for a successful car rebuilding? [Expanded list] An air compressor, engine crane, engine stands, floor jack, jack stands, torch, welder, shop manual, workbench, high-grade bolts, and a good quality welder are all essential tools for a successful car rebuild. Additionally, it is important to have an appropriate space for spreading out and arranging parts correctly. Lastly, it is important to have access to a car manual, as well as a good understanding of the process and common issues with car engines.
What is the expected timeline for a car rebuild?
The expected timeline for a car rebuild largely depends on the current condition of the car, the desired finished condition, and who is doing the work. On average, it takes around 950 hours to restore a classic vehicle, which can span from just a few months up to five years depending on the urgency. If you do the restoration yourself, it will take even longer due to the learning process needed for the restoration.
Before you can even begin the rebuild, you need to decide what level of restoration you are looking for, as well as what issues the car has. You should also consider the type of shop you will visit. A professional restoration shop had the knowledge already of restoring the cars and can do this in a shorter time frame, but it will cost more. DIY rebuilds will take longer, but you will likely spend less money.
Once you have decided on the shop and the level of restoration, you can begin the rebuild process. This process will include sourcing parts, ordering them, and then assembling them. You will also need to take into consideration the labor costs, which can be upwards of $70 per hour depending on the shop and the services needed.
Once the car is done, you can enjoy all the benefits of a restored classic car. However, you should remember this process can take quite a while, so don’t expect the car to be drivable right away. With the right planning and patience, you can enjoy the fruits of your labor before long.
