7 DIY Projects For Old Car Parts

Recently while scavenging through a yard sale, I stumped upon a fourth generation Dodge Charger, faded in the background of boxes, out-dated furniture, and miscellaneous junk. It had clearly outlived its glory days. Now windowless, scratched up, and missing a headlight. It looked nothing of the muscle car it once was. But then I got to thinking. What if I could make something new of this American classic? The owner had no intentions of refurbishing this old-timer, nor did I have the budget to take on such a task. However, its car parts still carried some value. If not for automotive purposes, certainly for decorative. Seconds later I was bargaining for select items off this 70s model and my latest project had began. Keep reading to discover 7 DIY projects for old car parts that any car enthusiast would love to take on.

Let’s get down to business

For the sake of taking on a DIY project, you need to be prepared for what’s to come. First off, don’t expect inspiration to show up at your front door. Some items will take days or months to come to fruition. Let’s face it, they are car parts after all. Secondly, don’t expect every DIY project to be a modern marvel. You will make some serious mistakes. Might I say ugly ones as well. All things considered, when you take on DIY projects for old car parts, expect the unexpected. Some will amaze you, some will be a swing and miss. But for those who are new to this hobby, here’s our guide for making some pretty awesome masterpieces on a budget.

7 DIY projects for old car parts

Whether you have old car parts lying around in your garage or you’re an avid collector, here is the best inspiration for making DIY projects for old car parts.

1. Turn a recycled wheel into a fire pit

Families love gathering together around a warm fire during the winter months. So instead of taking a trip to Home Depot for a pricey outdoor fireplace, consider making your own with a recycle wheel.

2. Car hood to protective outdoor awning

Once you begin rummaging for old car parts at junkyards or yard sales, you’ll find a number of car hoods lying around. This DIY project is relatively easy as all you’ll need is a bit of paint and detailing to make it look brand new. We suggest making the hood into an outdoor awning. It will quickly become the perfect place to enjoy an afternoon off work (while protected from the sun).

3. Use an old engine block for a stellar wine rack

It seems like every homeowner is looking for the perfect wine rack nowadays. But our suggestion is to make something totally unique by turning an old engine block into a fully functioning wine rack. Several of these masterpieces sell on Etsy, so if you’re looking to make money from your DIY project, this one is hard to beat.

Image source: Pinterest

4. Car seat to office chair

Many car fanatics will love this DIY project. It gives you the feel of being in one of your favorite classic automobiles while at the office or sitting at your dining room table. Remember bench seats? Like the Buick Skylark or Chevrolet Chevelle. Take one of those old car parts and turn it into the perfect banquet seating in your kitchen. You can also make any car seat into a rolling office chair with a few extra supplies.

5. Use a coil spring as a paper organizer

Here’s how you make a small car part into a unique home decor. Simply find an old coil spring, give it a good scrub, and transform it into a paper organizer on your desk. If you’re feeling creative, you can even spray paint it to add a funky look to this often neglected car part.

Image source: Pinterest

6. Scrap engine to designer coffee table

If you’re a car enthusiast, this piece will become a staple in your home. All you have to do is find an old scrap engine and a sizable piece of glass to transform this car part into a one-of-a-kind coffee table. Remember, car engines vary in volume, so you’ll want to keep this in mind when choosing a specific engine for your living space.

7. Trash to treasure lamp

Who doesn’t love a statement-making lamp in their home? Which is why this DIY project has become one of our favorite items among the list. You’ll need to find old suspension parts to complete this task, but to help our readers understand the entire process, watch the step-by-step video below:

Overview of DIY projects for old car parts

We hope this list inspires you to make some awesome automotive decor for your home. In addition, these projects remain ideal gifts for the car fanatic in your life. If you’ve had experience turning old car parts into precious jewels, we’d love to hear about your experience too! Take a moment to comment and share your DIY project below.