The Complete Breakdown of a Restorfx Car Restoration Cost

The Cost of a Restorfx Car Restoration

If you're looking to fully restore your classic or modern vehicle, you may be considering Restorfx as an option. As seen on shows like Rust Valley Restorers, Restorfx uses innovative techniques to restore vehicles to their former glory. But what exactly does a Restorfx restoration cost? Here's an in-depth look at the typical price range and what impacts the total bill.

Restorfx's Restoration Process

First, it's important to understand what a Restorfx restoration entails. Their signature process involves fully disassembling the vehicle, repairing or replacing any damaged parts, smoothing out body damage, priming and painting the exterior, re-chroming trim pieces, restoring the engine and transmission, reupholstering the interior, and reassembling the finished product.

This comprehensive process aims to make the vehicle look and drive like new - or in some cases, better than new. The Restorfx team handles everything from mechanical work to body work to cosmetic details, which is different than piecemealing a restoration using separate shops.

Factors That Impact Cost

The total cost of a Restorfx restoration depends on a variety of factors:

• Vehicle make and model - More common vehicles tend to have more affordable replacement parts available.
• Overall condition - The more repairs needed, the higher the cost. Rust damage or missing parts also increase labor time.
• Desired quality of restoration - A basic drivable restoration is cheaper than a concours-level restoration with perfect details.
• Custom work - Special upgrades or modifications add cost in parts and labor.
• Location - There may be additional fees for shipping the vehicle to/from the Restorfx shop.

Average Restoration Costs

While every Restorfx restoration is quoted on an individual basis, most fall within these general price ranges:

• Light Restoration - $10,000-$30,000
  • Focuses on mechanical repairs and exterior/interior cleaning
  • Ideal for drivable daily drivers or affordable project cars
• Standard Restoration - $30,000-$100,000
  • Includes mechanical, body, paint, chrome, and interior restorations
  • Suitable for common collector vehicles in fair starting condition
• Ground Up Restoration - $100,000+
  • A complete nut-and-bolt rebuild of the entire vehicle
  • Used for rare or exotic vehicles and concours-level projects

These prices do not include the cost of the vehicle itself. Additional expenses like upholstery options, engine upgrades, or new aftermarket parts can also increase the total cost of a project.

Saving on Your Restorfx Restoration

If you have your heart set on a Restorfx restoration but need to work within a tighter budget, there are some ways to save:

• Provide your own parts - Finding used replacements yourself reduces shop markup costs.
• Complete some prep work - Doing your own disassembly, cleaning, and minor repairs ahead of time can lower labor hours.
• Ship the vehicle yourself - Coordinating your own transport to/from the shop avoids this add-on cost.
• Focus on visible upgrades - Prioritize exterior, interior, and engine bay details over wasteful unseen mechanical perfection.
• Stick to a schedule - Time overages result in higher labor charges, so keep the project moving efficiently.

The Restorfx experts can also help suggest creative ways to work within your budget while still achieving your restoration goals.

Is the Investment Worthwhile?

Depending on your goals for the vehicle, investing $30,000-$100,000+ in a restoration may or may not be worthwhile. Here are some factors to consider:

• Rarity - Very rare or desirable vehicles tend to warrant bigger investments.
• Personal value - Some owners have emotional attachment to a car worth preserving.
• Intended use - Restoring a car for regular driving is different than concours showing.
• Resale value - A full restoration helps vehicles retain or gain collectible value.
• Quality of work - The high-end workmanship from Restorfx holds value better than lower-end restorations.

For the right vehicle and purpose, a Restorfx restoration can yield an invaluable finished product. Their experts can guide you through the expense breakdown and help determine if the investment in your car is justified.

The Takeaway

In the end, Restorfx restorations typically range from $10,000 for a simple refresh up to $100,000+ for a Pebble Beach-level renovation. The specific cost depends on the vehicle, scope of work, materials, and time involved. While not inexpensive, their work is unmatched in terms of quality, detail, and function. For treasured vintage and collector vehicles, that premium craftsmanship and exclusivity helps justify the significant but rewarding investment.

FAQs

What is a Restorfx restoration?

Restorfx is a specialty restoration shop known for their high-quality, concours-level restorations. Their process involves fully disassembling the vehicle, repairing or replacing any damaged parts, bodywork, paint, chrome, upholstery, and reassembly. The goal is to make the vehicle look and function like new, if not better.

How long does a Restorfx restoration take?

Most Restorfx restorations take 12-24 months from start to finish. The time depends on the condition of the vehicle, scope of work, and schedule. More complex projects with extensive customization and modifications take longer.

What is the most expensive Restorfx restoration?

Restorfx's most expensive restoration to date is rumored to be a rare 1930s era Duesenberg Model J. The total cost was estimated between $500,000 to $1 million. The highest end restorations on rare luxury or exotic vehicles can exceed seven figures.

Can I save money on a Restorfx restoration?

Yes, providing your own parts, handling transport, focusing on visible upgrades over complete mechanical rebuilds, and sticking to a schedule can help reduce total costs. You can also complete disassembly and prep work yourself before sending it to Restorfx.

Is a Restorfx restoration worth the cost?

For rare, valuable vehicles and passionate collectors seeking concours-level perfection, the quality and workmanship of a Restorfx restoration makes the investment worthwhile. The increased value and enjoyment can offset the higher costs. But more basic vehicles may not warrant the premium expense.