Car restoration is more than a business—it’s a passion that keeps automotive history alive. But running a successful restoration shop has never been more challenging. After speaking with shop owners across the country, I’ve identified the top issues plaguing our industry and practical solutions that can help you thrive.
Labor Shortage Crisis
Finding skilled technicians remains the number one challenge. The industry faces a critical shortage of qualified workers who understand both classic automotive systems and modern restoration techniques. The other issue with a shortage of labor appears when it comes to moving and pulling vehicles by hand, which can easily take a few skilled workers away from their projects. By utilizing powered vehicle movers, many shops and vehicle collectors are making short work of vehicle moving all with one person.
What’s working: Focus on aptitude over experience. As Adam Hammer from Hammer and Dolly Automotive Restorations puts it: “Find the right person with aptitude to grow the skills, and we can teach the skill.” Partner with programs like McPherson College’s Automotive Restoration program to identify promising candidates early.
Rising Costs Across the Board
Parts, equipment, and labor costs have skyrocketed. Specialty components that once cost hundreds now run thousands, putting pressure on profit margins and customer relationships.
Strategic approach: Build strong relationships with reliable suppliers and consider bulk purchasing for commonly needed parts. Transparent pricing discussions with customers upfront prevent shock later in the restoration process.
Parts Availability and Quality Issues
Extended backorders have become the norm, not the exception. Even when parts arrive, quality control has declined significantly. Eric Peterson from Leydon Restorations notes: “The quality keeps getting worse. Manufacturers are just looking for the cheapest way, the least expensive supplier.”
Innovative solutions: Some shops are turning to 3D scanning and printing for hard-to-find components. Develop relationships with multiple suppliers and consider investing in in-house fabrication capabilities for critical parts.
Environmental Regulations
New regulations have eliminated many traditional compounds used in restoration work. Paints, solvents, and other materials shops relied on for decades are no longer available, forcing adaptations to less familiar products.
Adaptation strategy: Invest in training for alternative products and processes. While initially challenging, mastering new environmentally compliant materials can become a competitive advantage.
Managing Customer Expectations
The “job creep” phenomenon continues to challenge scheduling. Cars arrive for routine maintenance but reveal extensive hidden issues. Plus, pop culture has created unrealistic expectations about restoration timelines and costs.
Communication is key: Conduct thorough inspections before providing estimates. Set realistic expectations about both timeline and cost from the beginning. Document everything and maintain regular communication throughout the project.
Space Constraints and Vehicle Moving
Limited workspace forces many shops to play “musical cars,” constantly moving vehicles to access others. This inefficiency costs time and risks damage to valuable classics.
The Vehicle Puller Solution: The CarCaddy Vehicle Puller has revolutionized how shops handle vehicle movement. As Doug Melon from Midwest Car Collection explains, this tool eliminates the need for multiple people to move cars safely, allowing one person to reposition vehicles efficiently while reducing risk of damage.
Declining Specialty Services
Traditional specialty shops—radiator repair, brake relining, clock restoration—are disappearing as their owners retire without successors.
Opportunity for entrepreneurs: Consider specializing in these vanishing services. The demand remains strong, and competition is minimal.
Moving Forward
The restoration industry faces real challenges, but adaptable shops are finding ways to succeed. Key strategies include:
- Investing in training and development for both existing staff and new hires
- Embracing technology solutions like the CarCaddy Vehicle Puller for operational efficiency
- Building strong supplier relationships and considering in-house fabrication
- Maintaining transparent communication with customers about realistic expectations
The passion for preserving automotive history drives this industry. By addressing these challenges head-on with practical solutions, restoration shops can continue their vital work while building sustainable businesses.
For shop owners struggling with space management and vehicle movement, tools like our CarCaddy Vehicle Puller represent the kind of innovative thinking needed to stay competitive in this evolving industry.
Get in contact with one of our sales engineers today and customize your perfect vehicle puller.