Warranty in the restomod world and EV conversion in general

You love your classic car—that’s why you’re willing to spend good money (and time) converting it to electric. But with so many moving pieces in an EV restomod, how do you ensure your investment is protected if something, heavens forbid, goes sideways? Here are some must-know points about restomod warranty coverage, from the classic car EV conversion cost to the coverage details you can actually count on.

The Reality of Classic Car EV Conversion Cost

Before we talk warranties, let’s address the budget. A classic car EV conversion cost can start around $20,000 for simpler projects and climb well past $100,000 if you want a top-tier battery pack, performance motor, and custom fabrication. Big range, we know—but that’s the nature of restomodding at large. We have an entire article dedicated to cost breakdown here, but here’s the long and short of it:

1. High-End Battery Packs: Longer range usually comes with a bigger price tag—and often a more comprehensive manufacturer warranty.

2. Custom Labor: If your build requires extensive modification to the chassis or interior, be prepared to pay extra for top-level craftsmanship.

3. Shop Reputation: Renowned shops may charge more, but they often pair their work with stronger coverage (or at least clearer terms).

The more you invest, the more essential it is to confirm how you’re protected if something breaks.

The Core of an EV Conversion Warranty

An EV conversion warranty can be split into two main categories: parts and labor. Each piece of hardware—batteries, motors, controllers—may come with its own coverage from the manufacturer. Meanwhile, your chosen restomod shop might offer a separate warranty on the installation itself.

1. Parts Coverage

A typical battery warranty might last 3 to 5 years, covering defects in materials and workmanship. EV West, for example, notes that some new battery modules come with a 2-year manufacturer warranty, while used modules often have no warranty at all. Electric GT says their motor units typically include a 12-month warranty if installed by a certified shop, covering mechanical failures but not misuse. Motor & Controller warranties can vary; some brands offer up to 1 year on new motors, while others limit coverage to just a few months. Controllers for high-performance setups might carry separate coverage—again, usually 6–12 months. Charging Components are often covered only short-term. They may end up coming with 6–12 months of coverage, though usage limits or exclusions apply, especially if you plan to fast-charge regularly.

2. Labor Coverage

Shop Warranty: Some shops guarantee their workmanship for 6 months, others for up to 2 years. If a wiring job fails because of sloppy installation, that’s on them. Full-System Integration refers to how certain high-end shops cover the entire system—motor, battery, controller—as one cohesive package. If any part of that integration fails within the warranty period, the shop is responsible for making it right. However, coverage terms can still be shorter than standalone parts warranties.

These warranties almost never extend to legacy components—your classic’s original suspension, brakes, or transmission remain on your dime. Your 1970 Chevelle’s brakes, suspension, and interior aren’t necessarily covered just because the battery and motor are.

The point is, read the fine print—wherever you buy your parts or labor.

Restomod Warranty Coverage in Action

No two conversions (or shops) are identical, so coverage naturally varies. Take these two example case studies:

Case Study A

A California-based shop pairs a 5-year battery manufacturer warranty with its own 2-year labor warranty. If the battery fails under normal use, you deal with the battery brand; if the wiring or mounting was botched, the shop covers repairs.

Case Study B

A smaller garage in the Midwest may only guarantee labor for 6 months and install a motor kit that includes a 1-year parts warranty. Costs might be lower upfront, but that shorter safety net could be a deal-breaker for some.

Clarify who’s responsible—and for how long—before committing to a build. Decide from there what you're comfortable with. When a part dies at month 8, you don’t want the shop pointing at the manufacturer and vice versa while you’re left footing the bill.

Fuel2Electric’s Vetting Process

Here’s what makes our network special. We know choosing the right shop isn’t just about price—it’s about trust. That’s why we vet each of our partner shops for top-notch customer service, clear coverage terms, and proven work quality. We communicate about their warranty policies, service history, and overall reputation, ensuring that when you book through us, you’re paired with a conversion provider who stands behind their craft. Bottom line? You get both peace of mind and a classic ride that’s electric, efficient, and backed by real guarantees.

What This Means for You

1. Ask Early, Ask Often: Discuss warranties, coverage periods, and claim procedures before any work begins.

2. Balance Cost & Coverage: Sometimes paying a bit more upfront translates to longer or more comprehensive coverage.

3. Plan for Surprises: Your 50-year-old chassis or original transmission likely isn’t under warranty, so keep a budget for those legacy parts.

4. Read the Fine Print: “Limited” can mean many things. Always check for exclusions like user-induced damage or unauthorized modifications.

Final Thoughts

Converting your classic to electric is a wild mix of nostalgia and cutting-edge tech—a dream come true for many car enthusiasts. Make sure to hammer out the details around warranty coverage so that your dream car remains surreal—long after the first bolt is turned.

Here’s the bottom line: You’re about to dump serious cash into your ride. You deserve clear answers about who pays if something fails. After all, the only surprises you want are the fast ones you find on the open road. And remember, if you want a one-stop solution that ensures quality and coverage, Fuel2Electric has your back. Safe travels, and welcome to the EV side of classic motoring.