Detroit Classic Car Bodywork

Restore the Lines That Define It

Thoughtful body restoration for classic cars, from rust repair and panel work to carefully prepared paint.

A Considered Restoration Process

Step 1

Discuss the Car

Share the vehicle’s history, current condition, and the result you hope to achieve.

Step 2

Assess the Body

Review visible damage, corrosion, and panel fit to clarify the work involved.

Step 3

Plan the Work

Agree on restoration priorities and a clear scope before bodywork begins.

Step 4

Complete the Finish

Carry out the planned repairs and preparation, then review the completed work together.

Care for Detroit Classics

Classic bodywork calls for patience, clear communication, and respect for the details that make each car distinct.

01

Original Lines Matter

We keep a car’s shape and proportions in view as panels are repaired and fitted.

02

Repairs With Purpose

We focus on the body issues that matter to your restoration goals and the vehicle’s condition.

03

Finish Begins With Prep

Careful surface preparation supports a cleaner, more considered paint finish.

Classic Car Restoration FAQs

What does classic car body restoration include?

The scope depends on the vehicle’s condition and restoration goals. Bodywork may include inspection, corrosion repair, metal shaping, panel fitment, and surface preparation. An assessment helps identify which steps are appropriate for your car.

Can you assess rust before restoration begins?

Yes. A body assessment can identify visible corrosion and areas that may need closer inspection. Sharing clear photos and any known repair history can help start the conversation, though an in-person review may be needed to define the full scope.

Do I need to remove the paint before bringing in my car?

Not necessarily. Keep the car in its current condition until the shop can discuss the best inspection approach. Existing paint, repairs, and finishes can provide useful information about the body’s history and may affect the restoration plan.

How is the restoration scope determined?

The scope is shaped by the body’s condition, the car’s intended use, and your priorities for the restoration. A conversation and inspection can help separate necessary structural or metal repairs from optional cosmetic work.

What information should I share when contacting the shop?

Include the vehicle’s make, model, and year if known, along with photos, visible concerns, previous body repairs, and your goals. These details help the shop understand the request and discuss a suitable next step.

Classic Body Restoration

Preserve your car’s character with considered bodywork, careful repairs, and finishes suited to its era.


Rust Repair

Address corrosion with targeted repairs that protect the body and preserve original lines.


Panel Restoration

Repair dents, gaps, and aging panels while keeping the vehicle’s original profile in view.


Classic Car Painting

Prepare and refinish bodywork with attention to color, surface, and period character.

Detroit Craft for Classic Cars

Motor City Coachworks restores classic car bodies in Detroit, MI, with close attention to metal condition, panel fit, and the character of each vehicle. The work begins with understanding the car’s needs and the owner’s goals, then identifying the body repairs and preparation required for a considered restoration.

From corrosion repair to shaping and surface preparation, each stage supports a sound, cohesive result. Clear conversations help owners understand the work ahead and make informed choices about scope. The focus stays on preserving the vehicle’s form while preparing its body for the next stage of its restoration.

Careful Assessment

Inspect the body closely and discuss visible concerns before defining the repair scope.

Respect for Form

Keep original lines and proportions central to body repair decisions.

Clear Process

Explain the work stages so owners know what each phase involves.

Start With a Conversation

Tell us about your classic car, its condition, and the bodywork you have in mind.