1. Underestimating Total Costs
Mistake: Thinking the car can be fully restored for a few thousand dollars.
Reality: Even a modest restoration can exceed $30,000–$50,000 when you factor in bodywork, paint, drivetrain, interior, and parts. A full concours-quality restoration can climb north of $100,000.
Tip: Create a detailed budget and include a 20–30% buffer for unexpected expenses. Don’t forget tools, shop labor, and transportation.
2. Starting with the Wrong Car
Mistake: Buying a car with significant rust, incomplete VIN tags, or no title just because it's cheap.
Reality: Rust repair and legal issues can outweigh the initial savings. Some Camaros are simply not worth restoring.
Tip: Always check the VIN, trim tag, and title. Perform a thorough rust inspection - especially in common problem areas like floor pans, rocker panels, and rear quarters.
Mistake: Swapping parts without regard for originality, or assuming any Camaro part fits all years.
Reality: Each model year has distinct differences (e.g., grill shapes, side markers, taillights). Mixing parts from different years can hurt resale value and authenticity.
Tip: Research your specific model year. Use reference guides like the Chevrolet by the Numbers series and access the GM Assembly Manuals for accuracy.
Mistake: Painting and finishing the body before test-fitting major components.
Reality: You risk damaging new paint when installing the engine, drivetrain, or interior components later.
Tip: Always test-fit mechanicals (engine, transmission, exhaust, suspension) and key trim components before final paint. Pre-assembly helps identify clearance and alignment issues early.
Above: Without a thorough restoration plan, your 1969 Camaro Z/28 may well stay in the weeds.
Mistake: Jumping into disassembly without documenting the process or organizing parts.
Reality: You’ll forget how components fit together, lose parts, and waste hours troubleshooting.
Tip: Take photos of every step during disassembly. Label and bag small parts with clear notes. Maintain a parts inventory and restoration checklist from day one.
Mistake: Buying the cheapest reproduction parts or assuming everything labeled "Camaro" will fit.
Reality: Not all reproduction parts are created equal. Poor-fitting panels, incorrect hardware, or wrong trim can compromise the final product.
Tip: Stick with trusted brands (like Classic Industries, OER, or Parts Unlimited Interiors) and read reviews. If your budget allows source NOS (New Old Stock) or good-condition OEM parts when possible.
Mistake: Focusing only on engine performance and ignoring the suspension or brakes.
Reality: The stock suspension and drum brakes were never designed for high horsepower or modern road conditions.
Tip: Upgrade to power disc brakes, modern shocks, and high-quality bushings. Consider a full suspension kit for better ride quality and safety, especially if increasing horsepower.
Mistake: Building a 600+ horsepower big block for a car that’s never raced.
Reality: Overpowered engines can make the car difficult to drive on the street, overheat easily, and cost a fortune to maintain.
Tip: Tailor the drivetrain to your goals. A reliable 350–450 hp small block V8 is more than enough for most street builds. Don’t forget cooling and fuel delivery systems.
Mistake: Reusing the original 50-year-old wiring or poorly installing aftermarket electronics.
Reality: Old wiring can lead to electrical fires, shorts, or unreliable performance.
Tip: Install a new wiring harness from companies like American Autowire or Painless Performance. Ensure all connections are clean and professionally crimped or soldered.
Mistake: Trying to finish the build in a few months or cutting corners to meet a car show deadline.
Reality: Haste leads to mistakes, skipped steps, and poor-quality results that will haunt you later.
Tip: Take your time. A proper restoration can take 1–3 years. Celebrate milestones, and don’t rush just to drive it. A well-paced project yields better results and higher long-term satisfaction.
Above: Two perfectly restored 1969 Camaro ZL1's are posing for the photographer (photo courtesy of Mecum Auctions). You can find a Camaro community of experts on the web, in terms of Camaro forums. You can also join a local Chevy Camaro car club in your area. In addition, you can go to a car show and talk to some Camaro owners.
You’re not alone in this journey. There are vast online communities (like Team Camaro or forums on Camaros.net), YouTube channels, and local car clubs filled with enthusiasts who’ve already made these mistakes. Take advantage of their knowledge before learning the hard way.
Restoring a 1967–1969 Camaro is both an art and a science. It takes patience, research, and a long-term vision. Avoiding the most common mistakes, especially when it comes to planning, parts, and prioritizing quality, can save you thousands and protect the value of your classic. Whether you’re building a daily cruiser, a show car, or a pro-touring beast, staying informed and methodical will set your restoration up for success.
Treat the process like a journey rather than a sprint. In the end, nothing compares to the satisfaction of bringing a legendary Camaro back to life - one bolt, weld, and coat of paint at a time. Get the Camaro parts you need from the company that came into existence some 48+ years ago as Classic Camaro, and you'll be off to the races. You can search for Camaro parts online. You can also enhance your search for those must have Camaro components by obtaining a free 600+ page Camaro Parts and Accessories catalog. You can also search for parts in the new digital Camaro Parts and Accessories catalog.