Finn's Auto Restoration Inc

  • Overview
  • Intro
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  • Location
  • Reviews
  • +1 503-829-8488
  • www.finnsautorestoration.com
  • 2282 Claxter Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301, USA

Operating Hours

Monday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Friday Closed
Saturday Closed
Sunday Closed

Finn's Auto Restoration Inc Introduce

Welcome to Finn's Auto Restoration Inc, located at 2282 Claxter Rd NE, Salem, OR 97301, USA. Operating within the platform category of Auto Repair Stations, Finn's Auto Restoration distinguishes itself by focusing on the intricate and specialized work of restoring and modifying classic and custom vehicles. Unlike general auto repair shops, Finn's caters to enthusiasts looking to bring their vintage or unique cars back to their former glory or to create personalized automotive masterpieces. The customer reviews present a stark contrast in experiences, highlighting exceptional craftsmanship and customer care in some instances, while detailing significant issues and dissatisfaction in others. This introduction aims to provide an objective overview based on these varying accounts to help local users understand the potential of Finn's Auto Restoration.

The environment at Finn's Auto Restoration Inc is likely that of a specialized workshop, equipped to handle the unique demands of classic car restoration and custom modifications. This would include areas for bodywork, painting, mechanical repairs, and potentially fabrication. The level of detail described in the positive review, such as the installation of subframe connectors, suspension components, a new exhaust system, and a transmission swap, suggests a facility with the necessary tools and expertise for complex projects. The mention of a shop tour indicates a willingness to showcase their work and potentially a passion for the vehicles they handle. However, the negative review paints a picture of a shop where quality control and project management may be inconsistent, leading to unfinished work and significant defects in other projects.

As a specialized Auto Repair Station, Finn's Auto Restoration Inc offers a range of services tailored to the needs of classic and custom car owners. Based on the customer reviews, these services include:

  • Complete Vehicle Restoration: This involves taking a vehicle, often in disrepair, and bringing it back to its original or better condition through bodywork, paint, interior refurbishment, and mechanical overhauls. The negative review of the 1967 Mustang project suggests they undertake complete strip-down and rebuild projects, although with potentially problematic outcomes in some cases.
  • Custom Modifications: This can include upgrades to performance, handling, and aesthetics. The positive review details significant modifications to a 1971 Dodge Challenger, such as suspension upgrades, exhaust system installation (headers to tips), and a transmission swap.
  • Bodywork and Panel Replacement: The negative review of the 1967 Mustang mentions the need for all panels to be replaced, indicating that Finn's handles extensive bodywork. The 1978 Chevy Blazer project also involved front fender and door skin replacements.
  • Painting Services: Both positive and negative reviews mention painting. The positive review implies a high-quality outcome, while the negative review details significant flaws in the paint job, including missed spots and fingerprints under the clear coat.
  • Mechanical Repairs and Upgrades: The installation of a new exhaust system and a transmission swap in the Challenger, as well as the engine and transmission leaks reported in the Blazer project, indicate that Finn's handles various mechanical aspects of restoration and modification.
  • Air Conditioning Installation: The 1978 Chevy Blazer project included the installation of an aftermarket AC system.

The features of Finn's Auto Restoration Inc, as perceived through the lens of the customer reviews, present a mixed bag:

  • Potential for High-Quality Work and Attention to Detail: The positive review of the 1971 Dodge Challenger restoration praises the "attention to detail" as "second to none" and highlights the pride the customer felt in having their car worked on at Finn's. The willingness to open the shop for a tour also suggests a passion for their craft.
  • Good Communication (in some cases): The customer with the Challenger noted that Ray and Maggie kept them informed of issues and changes along the way, leading to a positive experience and new friendships.
  • Potential for Significant Project Management and Quality Control Issues: The negative review details severe problems with two different projects, including an exorbitant amount spent on an unfinished Mustang and a Blazer with a flawed paint job and leaking engine and transmission. This raises serious concerns about the consistency of their work and project management capabilities.
  • Questionable Explanations and Customer Service (in some cases): The quote attributed to the owner Denny regarding window rubber seals being irreplaceable by anyone but the factory seems unprofessional and potentially inaccurate, further contributing to the negative experience.
  • Lack of Transparency and Potential for Financial Disputes: The slow accumulation of costs and the eventual sale of the unfinished Mustang at a significant loss highlight potential issues with project budgeting and transparency.

Currently, there is no information available regarding any promotional offers or discounts from Finn's Auto Restoration Inc. Given the contrasting customer experiences, it is difficult to infer any consistent pricing strategies or promotional activities. Local users are strongly advised to contact Finn's Auto Restoration Inc directly at (503) 829-8488 or +1 503-829-8488 to discuss their specific project needs and to request detailed quotes and timelines. Due to the significant discrepancy in customer experiences, it would be prudent to ask for references and potentially to view examples of their completed work, especially for projects similar to your own. A thorough discussion of expectations, costs, and timelines is crucial before entrusting your valuable classic or custom vehicle to any restoration shop.

In conclusion, Finn's Auto Restoration Inc in Salem, OR, specializes in the restoration and modification of classic and custom vehicles. While one customer reported an overwhelmingly positive experience with high-quality work, attention to detail, and excellent communication, another detailed severe issues with two separate projects, including unfinished work, significant defects, and questionable customer service. This stark contrast indicates a potential inconsistency in their service quality and project management. Local users considering Finn's Auto Restoration for their classic or custom car projects should proceed with caution, conduct thorough due diligence, request references, and ensure clear and detailed agreements regarding the scope of work, timelines, and costs are in place before proceeding. The potential for exceptional work appears to be there, but the risk of significant issues, as highlighted in the negative review, cannot be ignored.

Finn's Auto Restoration Inc Photos

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Finn's Auto Restoration Inc Location

Finn's Auto Restoration Inc Customer Reviews

Working with Denny, Maggie, and Ray was the best experience I've had with a large project. I try to be a laid-back customer, who also knows what he wants down to the finer details. This was the first time I ever got EXACTLY what I paid for (and then some) without a single issue. I brought them my 1971 Dodge Challenger to help make it a better, more reliable car by installing subframe connectors, suspension components, a new exhaust system (headers to tips), and swapping the original 727 auto for a Tremec T56 Magnum so I could drive the car regularly. The attention to detail was second to none and I am honestly proud to have had my car worked on at Finn's. Ray and Maggie kept me informed of any/all issues and changes along the way and can say I've made new friends out of this experience. Upon picking up the car, it was immediately evident how much love and care was put into this build (they even opened the shop on a Friday, so my buddies and I could get the grand tour). If you're looking for a shop who will put care and attention to detail in your vehicle, then look no further than Finn's Auto Restoration. Thank you all!!

Jul 05, 2021 · Austin Keith

I had 2 different projects Finn’s was working on at the same time. The first was a 1967 Mustang fastback that was completely stripped down the said all the panels had to be replaced, I purchased $35k in parts and finally had had enough after spending $115k on this project and ended up with a barely spot welded together shell with not a single item completed. Finally sold this project for the part cost and now understand when I hear how people get taken advantage of on these projects. It just happens slowly over time. The second was a 1978 Chevy blazer that they replaced both front fenders, a door skin and a couple other small patches. They install an after market AC system and went there the mechanicals and painted it. I found 7 spot some as big as 2” X 2” at the base of a quarter panel 9how do you kiss a spot that big) and finger prints where you can see through to the primer. The transmission and engine have leaked oil since a week after I got it out of the shop. The owner Denny fed me a line about all the window rubber seals/parts and his quote was “it couldn’t be replaced because it was a living breathing product that only the factory was able to do”. Cost:$45k I posted a lot of picture on my Yelp review of both project and wheee the project we’re at when I finally pulled them from the shop, if you want to see the quality of work I received. Run run run and find another shop for your project.

Oct 25, 2020 · Matthew White

Amazing craftsmen and artisans. Attention to detail is stunning, as are their results, and you couldn't meet nicer people either. Highly recommend.

Jul 20, 2023 · Karin Lightner

Great food and service... Lol Cars / Projects o'plenty... Great people.

Dec 29, 2017 · John Steward

They do great work, great attention to details and quality.

Nov 25, 2020 · Thomas Simpson