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.

Clare Business Excellence Awards – The Winners! - Lyons Garages Classic Car Restoration and Servicing Specialists

Details: 28.Nov

David and Michael Lyons Clare Busines Excellence Award Winners 2024

Lyons Garages named ‘Clare Micro Business of the Year’ at Clare Business Excellence Awards

What a night! Clare Business Excellence Awards confirmed its status as the best business event in Clare. Hosted by Ennis Chamber with Clare County Council as lead sponsor, and Clare Echo as its media partner, the glittering occasion held at the Inn at Dromoland on November 27, was a night of celebration for businesses from all corners of the Banner County.

Outstanding businesses large and small, plus a voluntary community group were announced winners of their individual categories, by event MC, RTE Radio1 Reporter John Cooke, while the mantle of ‘Clare Micro Business of the Year’ went to Lyons Garages, the Classic and Sports Car business based in the beautiful West Clare setting of Spanish Point.

Congratulating all winners and finalists on the night, Cathaoirleach of Clare County Council Cllr. Alan O’Callaghan said, “The diversity and innovation of your businesses is a positive reflection of a vibrant and sustainable local economy. Your success is a testament to the resilience and determination many of you have demonstrated in recent years – overcoming many challenges. The tenacity, endurance and entrepreneurship you have shown leaves me in no doubt that this county’s economy will continue to grow and prosper thanks in no small way to each of you and your hard work. You carry the pride of ‘The Banner’ in all that you do.”

Sheila Lynch, President Ennis Chamber said, “The finalists in the room represent a very wide and diverse range of sectors and businesses. From multi-nationals to independent retailers, from our world-famous tourism businesses to our excellent hospitality and food providers, from traditional long-established businesses to new businesses based on futuristic cutting-edge technology – County Clare has it all in abundance. We can all feel very proud. I congratulate all finalists and category winners”

It was a fantastic evening out with our great team of Clive, Mark, Keelan and John joining us to celebrate. We're thrilled to win, it's fantastic to receive recognition for all our hard work over the past number of years, and it's great to see such a niche business in West Clare be recognised as a leader in business.

BEST MICRO BUSINESS (employing 10 people or less) – Sponsored by Local Enterprise Office, Clare

Winner: Lyons Garages Classic Car Restorations

Clare Business Excellence Awards – The Winners!

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