Handy car enthusiasts know how much of a joy it can be to restore an old vehicle, but no one knows quite as well as the professionals from Charlotte AutoFair in Mecklenburg County, NC. They host regular auto shows highlighting some of the country’s most incredible collector cars. If you’ve considered beginning your own classic or collector car restoration project, you might be wondering what you should expect along the way. 

Here, Charlotte AutoFair offers a bit of insight into some of the restoration process:

• Auto Body Repairs: Even the most well-kept classic and collector cars will likely require a bit of body work to look as good as new. In many cases, you’ll have to repair dents and scratches to a vehicle’s exterior in addition to treating it for rust and oxidation. 
• Painting: Unless you’re an extremely experienced auto technician or mechanic, painting the exterior of your vehicle is something better left to professionals. However, it will be a necessary step in the collector car restoration process and should be done with great care to ensure accurate results. 
• Engine Work: A classic or collector car rarely comes with an intact engine; in most cases, you’ll need to purchase a new one for it or rebuild it on your own. Many enthusiasts will want to make their vehicle’s components look as original as possible, so consider purchasing engine parts from a reliable company that carries patterned engine parts for classic cars. 
• Trim & Moldings: A restored vehicle’s sense of classic authenticity often comes down to the details, which is why adding the perfect trim and moldings to your collector car is essential. Auto shows are one of the best places to find these items and meet other classic car enthusiasts. 
• Regular Maintenance: Performing routine maintenance is important for any vehicle but even more so for a classic car, which requires specialized care and attention to ensure its original and factory parts remain in good condition. Devising and adhering to a detailed maintenance and repair plan will help you get the most out of your collector car. 

If you have questions about your classic or collector car project, contact the professionals from Charlotte AutoFair today at (704) 841-1990. You can also visit them online for an extensive schedule of their car shows and other events.