🔧 How to Track a Full Car Restoration

A full restoration can take anywhere from a few months to several years. Without a proper system to track every detail, you’ll quickly lose track of what you’ve bought, what work has been done, and how much you’ve spent. This guide walks you through the simple, effective way to manage your build.

1. Break the project into clear sections

Start by splitting the work into logical groups so you never feel overwhelmed. A standard breakdown works for almost any car:

• Chassis, bodywork & rust repair
• Engine, gearbox & mechanical components
• Suspension, brakes & steering
• Electrics, wiring & lighting
• Interior, trim & upholstery
• Paintwork, finish & badging
• Final assembly, testing & roadworthiness

With Build Tracker, you can create these sections in seconds, add sub‑tasks, and see exactly what’s done and what’s still to do.

2. Log every part and cost

Even the smallest parts add up — and it’s easy to forget where the money went. Get into the habit of recording:

• Part name, description and manufacturer
• Supplier name, order date and price paid
• Where it’s fitted or stored
• Photos or scans of receipts and invoices

At the end of the build, you’ll have a complete, accurate record — perfect for insurance, valuation, or resale.

3. Record progress and photos

Take clear photos at every stage and add short notes. This is your build’s history:

Example: 14/06/2026 — Chassis shot‑blasted, primed and painted. New rear suspension arms fitted.

Photos also help if you need to remember how parts fit, or if you ever need to reassemble or troubleshoot later.

4. Avoid common tracking mistakes

• ❌ Paper notebooks — easily lost, damaged, or hard to read later
• ❌ Memory only — details fade fast, especially on long projects
• ❌ Spreadsheets only — not easy to update while you’re working under a car
• ✅ Use a dedicated system — accessible from your phone, tablet or laptop, wherever you are