(Disc Brakes, AC, EFI, Suspension — for Classic and Modern Retrofits)
Introduction — Breathing New Life into Classics with Modern Comfort & Performance
In Orange County, car culture runs deep. From Huntington Beach’s coastal cruises to Costa Mesa’s weekend car meets, enthusiasts cherish their classics — but many also want the comfort, reliability & safety of modern vehicles. That’s where restomods come in.
Restomod (restoration + modification) projects preserve the vintage look & charm of classic cars while integrating modern technology.
Classic-car restoration is booming: The North American automotive restoration market was valued at over USD 1.1 billion in 2023 & increasing.
Disc brake upgrades save lives: Modern disc conversions can cut stopping distance by up to 20% compared to drums.
At ER Collision & Auto Body Shop in Huntington Beach, we’ve been upgrading & restoring vehicles for over 15 years — from installing disc brakes on a ’67 Mustang to adding modern AC to a vintage Porsche.
Whether you drive a retro muscle car, a classic import, or a custom build, our I-CAR Gold Certified technicians use OEM-quality parts, advanced fabrication & precise fitment to blend style & performance seamlessly.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
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Why restomods are popular in Orange County
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Top restomod & upgrade ideas for OC drivers
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ER Collision’s full-service approach to restomod projects
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Service areas across coastal & inland Orange County
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Tips before starting your restomod project
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Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
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How to contact us for expert restomod upgrades
Let’s jump in:
Why Restomods Are Popular in Orange County
✅ Daily drivability: Perfect for OC traffic & long coastal drives.
✅ Safety upgrades: Disc brakes, modern lighting, reinforced frames.
✅ Comfort features: Air conditioning, improved suspension, better insulation.
✅ Performance gains: Electronic fuel injection (EFI), updated transmissions, lightweight components.
✅ Value retention: Enhances usability without losing classic appeal.
Bring these upgrades to life with ER Collision — your Orange County restomod experts
Top Restomod & Upgrade Ideas for OC Drivers
1. Disc Brake Conversion — Stopping Power for OC’s Roads
Classic drum brakes can struggle in modern traffic, especially in hilly areas like Laguna Beach or stop-and-go on the 405. We:
- Install high-performance front & rear disc brake kits.
- Upgrade to stainless steel brake lines for durability.
- Add power brake boosters for easier pedal feel.
2. Modern Air Conditioning — Stay Cool in Coastal & Inland Heat
From humid Newport Beach mornings to sunny Anaheim afternoons, AC is a must. We:
- Retrofit period-correct AC systems for vintage models.
- Install high-efficiency compressors for quicker cooling.
- Upgrade cabin insulation to retain comfort.
3. Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) — Reliability Meets Efficiency
EFI eliminates carburetor issues, improves fuel economy & ensures consistent starts, even after storage. We:
- Install modern EFI kits tuned for your engine.
- Add high-flow fuel pumps and clean fuel lines.
- Calibrate systems for OC’s coastal & inland conditions.
4. Suspension Upgrades — Smooth Handling on OC Streets
Between Pacific Coast Highway’s scenic curves & Irvine’s urban streets, a balanced suspension matters. We:
- Replace worn leaf springs & shocks with performance coilovers.
- Upgrade sway bars for tighter cornering.
- Adjust ride height for stance and comfort.
(Our shop also performs full suspension repairs & alignments for all makes and models, including Tesla, Honda, and more.)
5. Lighting & Electrical Modernization
Improve visibility for evening cruises & nighttime events. We:
- Upgrade to LED or HID headlights for brighter, whiter light.
- Replace brittle wiring harnesses.
- Install modern fuse boxes for safer power distribution.
ER Collision’s Full-Service Approach to Restomod Projects
While restomod upgrades are our specialty, ER Collision & Auto Body Shop also offers:
- Rust removal & prevention for coastal OC cars.
- Custom paint & color matching with UV-resistant coatings.
- Metal fabrication for hard-to-find or custom parts.
- Complete mechanical rebuilds for engines, transmissions & drivetrains.
- Collision repair & insurance claim assistance if your classic has suffered damage.
- Bumper repair, paintless dent removal, windshield & glass replacement, car detailing, scratch repair, towing & fleet services for all makes, including Tesla, Honda, Kia, Infiniti, Toyota, BMW & more.
- Free pickup & delivery within 5 miles to make your project stress-free.
- Onsite mobile repair service for certain upgrade or maintenance tasks.
- Rental car coordination during your restomod project so you stay on the road.
Because all work is done in-house, we can coordinate upgrades with restoration, ensuring every part of your project meets your goals — whether that’s daily driving, weekend showing, or concours competition
Service Areas — Coastal & Inland OC
We proudly serve: Huntington Beach, Costa Mesa, Fountain Valley, Newport Beach, Westminster, Garden Grove, Santa Ana, Irvine, Anaheim & surrounding Orange County communities.
Tips Before Starting Your Restomod Project in OC
- Plan your budget & priorities — Safety and reliability upgrades should come first.
- Consider local driving conditions — Coastal cars benefit from rust-proofing, inland cars from UV protection.
- Choose reversible modifications if resale value matters.
- Work with an experienced shop familiar with both classic and modern systems.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What’s the difference between restoration and restomod?
A: Restoration returns a car to factory-original condition, while restomod blends classic looks with modern upgrades for performance, safety & comfort.
Q: Can you install modern AC in my classic car?
A: Yes — we specialize in retrofitting AC systems into vintage models without compromising style.
Q: Will restomod upgrades affect my car’s value?
A: Quality upgrades often increase usability & appeal, but we can make modifications reversible for collectors.
Q: Do you offer restomod services for imports as well as muscle cars?
A: Yes — we work on all makes & eras, including European classics & Japanese imports.
Q: How long does a restomod project take?
A: Timelines vary by scope, but most take 3–12 months depending on parts, fabrication, and complexity.
Q: Do you serve HB, Costa Mesa, Westminster, and Fountain Valley?
A: Yes — we serve all of Orange County, including coastal & inland areas.
Q: Do you provide free pickup & delivery for restomod projects?
A: Yes — we offer free pickup and delivery within 5 miles, with extended service available for a small fee.
Q: Can you arrange a rental car while my project is in progress?
A: Yes — we coordinate rentals through trusted local agencies or your insurance provider (if car suffered collision damage).
Q: Do you offer mobile repair services for restomod or restoration work?
A: Yes — while full restorations are performed in our shop, certain repairs, adjustments & pre-install checks can be done onsite for your convenience.
Q: Can you help with insurance claims for cars undergoing restoration or restomod work?
A: Yes — if the work involves accident damage or an insured event, we handle the claim process for you.
Final Word — Bring Your Classic into the Modern Era
Restomods are the perfect solution for OC drivers who want the soul of a classic with the confidence of a modern ride. Whether it’s safer braking, cooler cruising, or improved handling, ER Collision & Auto Body Shop delivers custom solutions tailored to your goals.
Call us today to discuss your restomod vision — or stop by our Huntington Beach shop for a free consultation.
