Classic Volkswagen Restoration & Customization

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Metric Autohaus • Millersville, MD • $90-180 per hour

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We restore classic Volkswagens, including the: Beetle, Bus, Transporter, Type I, Type II, Type III, Notchback, Karmann Ghia, Fastback, Squareback, 411, 412, 914, convertibles and sedans.

We do interiors, rust repair, bodywork, insurance work for classic VW accidents, full-paint services; there isn't anything that we don't do for these classic VW cars and buses that we've known and loved since 1984.

We are cerebral and geeky about our cars and celebrate OEM but also have the ability to customize and modify cars that are mostly incomplete. We can build you an all-electric car or an 11-second drag car.

We have in-house artists and engineers, so there isn't anything that can't be designed and built using these wonderful vehicles. We know the history of each model and enjoy sharing the rich (and often misunderstood) stories behind each and every model.

We also prefer to restore original OEM parts rather than buy cheap, low-quality reproduction parts. It is yet another detail that sets us apart from most other shops, as we take the extra time to ensure the best quality goes into every project we build, from 1955 36 h.p. engines, to full restorations of vehicles.

The end result is the sum of its parts. We glass bead, rework, and refinish most VW OEM parts and have none of the issues associated with poorly fitting replacement parts. We provide an inspection service for folks who purchase vehicles from online auctions or other unseen places.

We also do appraisals for insurance, value, and records. We are one of the last shops to have survived into the millennium because of our great appreciation and attention to detail in these wonderful Volkswagens.

Reviews

July 28, 2011

It's hard to find people who are as enthusiastic about my VW as I am. My Beetle was a basket case, but the guys at Metric really guided me through the entire process and made the experience very enjoyable. I even learned how to adjust my own valves. My Beetle comes with me to shows, and I am always getting complements on it. Metric Autohaus is now part of my circle of VW friends. Check em out. I highly recommend them.

– Roger

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Question and answer

Q. What advice do you have for a customer looking to hire a provider like you?

A. We prefer customers and clients who love their cars, and have some history with them; or at least know something about the history of the cars. Classic Volkswagens are very special vehicles, and we often turn away potential clients who want to de-face or destroy the cars to make movie props, lawn equipment, or many other bizarre contraptions.

Q. If you were a customer, what do you wish you knew about your trade? Any inside secrets to share?

A. Aftermarket and reproduction parts are things that can make or break the enjoyable experience of owning and driving a classic Volkswagen. The key is to try and save every original part. Broken tabs can be welded, rust can be removed, but you can never get the exact fit and finish that came from original OEM parts from VW.

Q. What questions should a consumer ask to hire the right service professional?

A. How much of the work performed is farmed out to other businesses? Are your employees experienced in the specific and specialized Classic VW? Do you hire cheap labor to help in the process? Do you believe in cutting corners to save time and money? Do you believe that we are all just stewards who's responsibility it is to preserve and protect these incredible vehicles for future generations to enjoy?

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