While all classic and vintage car owners enjoy the look and curb appeal of ownership, not every one may know how to work on cars. That’s where vintage car restoration mechanics come in. As a vintage car restoration mechanic, you are a specialist, an expert who people consult and trust.
Making a Career of Car Restoration
Vintage car restoration is an art. It requires an understanding not only of vehicle repair but also vehicle history. A career in car restoration gives you the opportunity to connect with other classic car enthusiasts, make a name for yourself in a niche market, and rehabilitate vintage cars to fresh-off-the-line conditions.
You will need to acquire all of the technical skills standard automotive mechanics possess. Also, you'll use intuition and expertise to make the changes and modifications an old car needs to run like new again. Knowing how to refurbish, renovate, and restore classic cars is an exceptional skill to add to your mechanic training.
Be career-ready as a mechanic in as few as 10 months. Find mechanic training programs near you.
Where You’ll Learn
Most of the knowledge that vintage car restorers acquire is gained outside of traditional schooling. First, you will need to be a certified mechanic in order to be viewed as reputable and reliable. You can earn this title by first completing an auto mechanic training program at a trade school or community college, then taking your ASE exams.
Many community colleges and trade schools offer courses where you can earn a customization and restoration certification. If you choose to get a customization certificate, you can supplement your business by working on modern cars as well.
Programs in collision repair and auto body refinishing include training that will be useful to vintage car restoration as well.
What You'll Learn in Auto Restoration Mechanic Training
Courses in auto restoration training programs may include:
- metalworking and welding
- upholstery and trim
- painting and refinishing
- engine and drivetrain restoration
- chassis, suspension, and brake systems restoration
- final assembly and detailing
Where You’ll Work
Vintage car restorers enjoy exciting and successful careers. Even though your skill set will be highly specialized, you will still be able to apply your knowledge to a variety of contexts and choose your own direction.
Your work involves restoration, but even within that narrow category there are specialties. Does the project require you to install glass, refinish leather seating, or redo an exterior finish?
In addition to refurbishments, you may choose to offer style and upgrades to enhance the look and performance of old hot rods. Collectors or museums may hire you to work on their inventory.
Get Your Questions Answered
By starting your career as a vintage car restorer, you can pave your own path in a specialized industry. You may also find that you have a competitive edge on more rare opportunities than a typical automobile technician.
Before making your final decision, contact your local technical school with questions about its program, or get in touch with someone in the field to find out more firsthand.
