About This Business
About This Business
Hjeltness Restoration, Inc. is a renowned classic European automobile restoration company, particularly sought after for their meticulous and period-correct restorations of Mercedes 300SL models. With a legacy that began in 1957, Jerry Hjeltness, the owner, has cultivated a passion for these iconic vehicles, starting with his first Gullwing purchase in 1960. The company's expertise was formally established in 1984, after Jerry spent 23 years honing his craft in his garage, leading to a significant demand for his services. Today, Hjeltness Restoration is led by Jerry and his son Eric, along with a team of master technicians who share a dedication to reproducing the past with precision and authenticity. Each automobile that undergoes restoration at Hjeltness is treated as a work of art, with meticulous attention to both cosmetic and mechanical details. The company's commitment to excellence has earned them numerous top awards in concours events, including a perfect score at the 2011 Pebble Beach Concours d'Elegance. Clients and collectors alike praise Hjeltness Restoration for their world-class work, honesty, integrity, and unparalleled craftsmanship, making them the benchmark for period-correct authenticity in the classic car world. Whether it's a full body-off restoration or a partial refurbishment, every vehicle that leaves Hjeltness Restoration is a testament to the team's passion for preserving the beauty and functionality of these drivable icons. With a portfolio that boasts over 50 full restorations and numerous partial restorations, Hjeltness Restoration continues to set the standard for excellence in the classic car restoration industry, making them the go-to choice for collectors and enthusiasts who seek not just a restored vehicle, but a piece of history that is both beautiful and functional.
Customer Review
A Restoration Experience Marred by Arrogance and Inefficiency
I must say, my experience with Hjeltness Restoration, Inc. was a resounding disappointment. As a seasoned collector of classic European automobiles, I had high hopes for their renowned restoration services, particularly given their impressive legacy and reputation for meticulous, period-correct restorations of Mercedes 300SL models. Unfortunately, the reality fell far short of my expectations. From the initial consultation to the final delivery, I was met with a sense of arrogance and a lack of transparency that made the entire process feel more like a chore than a labor of love. The team's dedication to their craft is undeniable, but it seems that this dedication often comes at the expense of customer satisfaction and efficient project management. My restoration project, which was supposed to take approximately 12 months, ended up taking nearly 20 months to complete, with frequent delays and a lack of clear communication regarding the status of my vehicle. When I finally received my restored Mercedes 300SL, I was dismayed to find several minor issues that, while not critical, detracted from the overall experience. The paint job, while impeccable in most areas, had a few barely noticeable orange peel effects, and the interior, while largely faithful to the original, had some slight discrepancies in the stitching pattern. These issues, while minor, were frustrating given the premium price I paid for the restoration. Perhaps the most egregious aspect of my experience, however, was the team's attitude towards feedback and criticism. When I brought these issues to their attention, I was met with a dismissive and somewhat condescending demeanor, which left a sour taste in my mouth. It seems that Hjeltness Restoration, Inc. has become so enamored with their own reputation and legacy that they have forgotten the importance of customer service and satisfaction. For a company that prides itself on its attention to detail and commitment to excellence, I found their handling of my project to be surprisingly lacking in both regards. Unless they address these issues and adopt a more customer-centric approach, I fear that their reputation will begin to suffer. As it stands, I would caution potential clients to carefully consider their options before entrusting their prized vehicles to Hjeltness Restoration, Inc.
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Company Overview
Hjeltness Restoration, Inc.
630 Alpine Way, Escondido, CA 92029-1204, US
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