Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 (CMS 2018) offers an immersive experience for automotive enthusiasts to delve into the intricate world of vehicle repair and restoration. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the entire process of how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018, from acquiring a dilapidated shell to crafting a fully functional and valuable vehicle. Prepare to get your virtual hands dirty and transform scrap into a showroom-ready masterpiece.
Understanding the Basics of Car Mechanic Simulator 2018
Before you embark on your ambitious car-building journey, it’s essential to grasp the core mechanics of CMS 2018. The game is designed to simulate the challenges and rewards of being a professional car mechanic. You’ll manage a garage, take on client jobs, and crucially, buy, restore, and sell vehicles for profit. Building a car from scratch, or rather, from a disassembled wreck, is one of the most satisfying aspects of the game. It requires patience, attention to detail, and a strategic approach to parts management and repair. Your ultimate goal is to restore vehicles to their former glory, or even enhance them, making them more valuable and desirable. The game provides a vast array of tools, diagnostic equipment, and a parts store stocked with thousands of components, allowing for near-endless customization and repair possibilities. This foundational understanding is key to efficiently navigating the game’s systems and effectively building your dream vehicle.
Acquiring Your Project Vehicle
Every great car build begins with the right foundation. In Car Mechanic Simulator 2018, you have several avenues for acquiring a project car, each presenting its own set of challenges and potential rewards.
Scavenging the Junkyard
The junkyard is often the first stop for new mechanics or those looking for a truly challenging restoration. Cars here are typically in appalling condition, missing many parts, and often completely rusted. They are cheap, but the cost of restoration can quickly add up due to the sheer number of components that need replacing. You’ll spend a significant amount of time just identifying usable parts and dismantling the rest. However, finding a rare or highly sought-after model here can lead to substantial profit if you’re willing to put in the effort. Always bring your flashlight and diagnostic tools to get a preliminary assessment, though a full inspection will only be possible once the car is in your garage. This method truly embodies the spirit of how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 from the absolute bottom up.
Exploring Barn Finds
Barn finds offer a slightly less brutal starting point than the junkyard. These vehicles are often hidden away in dilapidated barns across various maps, and discovering them requires keen observation. While they are usually in better condition than junkyard cars, they still require extensive work. The allure of barn finds lies in the chance to uncover classic or rare vehicles that can fetch a high price after restoration. The challenge here is the search itself, as barns are not always easy to spot, making the discovery a rewarding mini-game in itself. Once you find a barn, you can purchase the car on the spot and have it delivered to your garage.
Bidding at the Auction House
For those with a bit more capital and a desire for a quicker turnaround, the auction house is an excellent option. Cars sold here are generally in better condition than junkyard or barn finds, meaning fewer parts to replace and a potentially faster restoration process. However, competition can be fierce, and prices are accordingly higher. It’s crucial to inspect these vehicles thoroughly before bidding, as hidden damage can quickly erode your profit margins. The auction offers a diverse selection of cars, from everyday sedans to high-performance sports cars, providing a balanced challenge between cost and restoration effort.
Purchasing from the Car Salon
The Car Salon is where you buy brand new cars. These aren’t project cars in the traditional sense, but they can be used for custom builds, engine swaps, or performance tuning if you wish to create a bespoke vehicle without the hassle of a full restoration. This is the most expensive option, but it provides a pristine canvas for your creative modifications. For the purpose of learning how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 from scratch, the junkyard or barn finds offer a more authentic challenge.
The Disassembly Process: Identifying What’s Worn
Once your chosen project car arrives in your garage, the real work begins. The first critical step is a thorough disassembly and diagnosis. This isn’t just about taking things apart; it’s about systematically identifying every worn, broken, or missing component.
Initial Inspection and Diagnostic Tools
Start by mounting the car on a lift. Use your diagnostic tools, such as the Suspension Test Path, the Brake Test Path, and the Path Test for alignment, to get an overall health report. These tools will highlight major issues in the respective systems. Visually inspect the body for rust, dents, and missing panels.
Systematic Disassembly
Proceed methodically. Begin with the wheels, then move to the brakes, suspension, and steering components. For each part, observe its condition. The game uses a percentage system (e.g., 5% condition) to indicate wear. Any part below a certain threshold (typically 50-70% for client jobs, but for a full restoration, you’ll want to replace anything significantly worn) should be marked for replacement.
Next, remove engine bay components: radiator, battery, air filter, and any other peripherals. Then, the engine itself can be removed using the engine crane. Once the engine is on the stand, you can disassemble it piece by piece, checking the condition of pistons, crankshaft, camshaft, cylinder heads, etc. This is where the game’s detail truly shines, as you learn the exact internal workings of various engines.
Don’t forget the interior (seats, dashboard, door panels) and body panels (fenders, hood, trunk, doors). Even small components like light bulbs and wiper blades contribute to the car’s overall condition and value. For comprehensive learning on how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018, meticulous disassembly is paramount. Make sure to place all removed parts in your inventory for potential repair or sale, or directly into your scrap pile.
Ordering New Parts: Your Virtual Supply Chain
With a comprehensive list of worn and missing parts, it’s time to stock your workshop. The game’s computer terminal is your gateway to the parts store, offering a vast catalog of automotive components.
Navigating the Parts Store
The parts store is categorized logically, making it easy to find specific components. You’ll find sections for:
* Engine parts: Blocks, heads, pistons, crankshafts, camshafts, oil pans, filters, etc.
* Suspension parts: Springs, shock absorbers, control arms, sway bars, bushings.
* Brake parts: Discs, calipers, pads, brake lines.
* Transmission parts: Gearboxes, clutches.
* Body parts: Fenders, bumpers, doors, hoods, trunks, lights, windows.
* Interior parts: Seats, dashboards, steering wheels.
* Exhaust parts: Headers, mufflers, pipes.
* Tires and Rims: A wide selection for different vehicle types and styles.
When browsing, pay attention to the part compatibility with your specific car model. The game provides clear indicators if a part won’t fit. Always check the condition; new parts are 100%, but sometimes you might opt for cheaper, lower-condition parts for less critical areas or if funds are tight (though for a high-quality build, new is always best).
Repairing and Reusing
Not every worn part needs to be discarded. Your garage includes a repair bench and a welding machine. The repair bench allows you to fix many common parts, such as engine components, suspension arms, and brake calipers, to 100% condition for a fraction of the cost of buying new. The welding machine is specifically for repairing rusty body panels. This repair-and-reuse strategy is crucial for managing costs and maximizing profit, especially when learning how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 efficiently. Decide strategically which parts to repair and which to replace entirely based on cost-effectiveness and desired final quality.
Engine Assembly: The Heart of Your Build
The engine is arguably the most complex and satisfying part of any car build. A properly assembled engine is the cornerstone of a high-performing vehicle.
Building the Engine Block
Start with a new or repaired engine block. Install the crankshaft, followed by the main bearing caps. Then, add the pistons with connecting rods. Ensure each piston is correctly oriented. Next come the oil pan and oil filter. If your engine is a V-type, you’ll have two cylinder heads, otherwise one. Install the camshafts (if applicable, depending on engine type), rocker arms, and pushrods. Finally, attach the timing components (timing chain/belt, tensioners, sprockets) and the valve covers.
Adding Peripherals
Once the core engine is assembled, it’s time to add its vital peripherals. This includes the water pump, alternator, power steering pump, and various pulleys and belts. Attach the exhaust manifold and the intake manifold, followed by the fuel injectors, spark plugs, and ignition coils. Don’t forget the turbocharger or supercharger if your engine requires one. Each component must be correctly fastened to ensure proper function. This intricate process showcases the depth of how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018.
Installing and Connecting
With the engine fully assembled on the engine stand, use the engine crane to carefully lower it back into the car’s engine bay. Once in place, connect the transmission, driveshafts (if rear-wheel drive), exhaust system, radiator and hoses, battery, and all necessary wiring harnesses. Double-check every connection point to ensure no vital links are missed.
Chassis, Suspension, and Brakes
With the engine in place, attention turns to the underpinnings of the car – the chassis, suspension, and braking systems. These components dictate the vehicle’s handling, ride comfort, and safety.
Assembling the Suspension
Starting with the front and rear axles (if applicable), install new or repaired control arms, springs, and shock absorbers. Attach the sway bar and its links. For the steering system, install the steering rack, tie rods, and steering knuckles. Ensure all bushings are new or in excellent condition for optimal performance and handling. The precise fitment of each suspension component is vital for a stable and responsive ride.
Installing the Braking System
Brakes are paramount for safety. Begin by attaching new or repaired brake calipers to the steering knuckles. Install fresh brake discs and pads. Crucially, connect all the brake lines, ensuring they are free from leaks and properly routed. Don’t forget the brake servo and master cylinder in the engine bay. A fully functional braking system is non-negotiable for any roadworthy vehicle. This meticulous installation highlights the thoroughness required for how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018.
Wheels and Tires
Finally, select appropriate rims and tires for your vehicle. Mount the tires onto the rims using the tire machine, then balance them using the wheel balancer. Once balanced, attach the wheels to the car. The choice of wheels and tires can significantly impact both the aesthetics and performance of your build.
Bodywork, Interior, and Final Touches
The exterior and interior are what people see first, making them critical for a complete restoration and maximizing value.
Bodywork and Paint
Repair or replace all damaged body panels (fenders, hood, trunk, doors, bumpers). Use the welding machine for rust repair on panels that aren’t too far gone. Once all panels are in place, head to the paint booth. You can choose from a wide array of colors and finishes. Experiment with different colors to find one that perfectly complements your build. Painting is a multi-step process: apply primer, then the base coat, and finally a clear coat for protection and shine. The impact of a fresh, flawless paint job on the car’s final value is immense.
Interior Refurbishment
The interior needs just as much attention as the exterior. Replace or repair damaged seats, dashboard, and door panels. Install a new steering wheel if desired. Ensure all interior lights, gauges, and infotainment systems are working correctly. A clean, comfortable, and functional interior significantly boosts the car’s appeal.
Lights and Windows
Install new headlights, taillights, turn signals, and fog lights. Replace any cracked or shattered windows. Ensure all light bulbs are working. These small details contribute to the car’s overall integrity and readiness for the road.
Fluids and Fine-Tuning
Before declaring your build complete, fill the car with all necessary fluids: engine oil, coolant, brake fluid, and power steering fluid. Perform a final diagnostic check using all your tools. This includes the dynamo test for engine power and torque, and the wheel alignment machine to ensure proper steering geometry. Adjust suspension settings, engine timing, and fuel mixture for optimal performance if you’re aiming for a high-performance build. This final tuning ensures that every aspect of how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 is perfected.
Selling Your Masterpiece
Once your car is fully restored, repaired, and polished, it’s time to reap the rewards of your hard work. There are two primary ways to sell your vehicles in CMS 2018:
Selling to Clients
Occasionally, clients will specifically ask for a fully restored car of a certain model. If your build matches their request, you can offer it to them. These sales often come with a good profit margin, as the client is seeking a specific, high-quality vehicle.
Selling at the Auction House
The auction house is typically where you’ll sell your most valuable and well-restored vehicles. Set a starting price and watch as bidders compete for your creation. The better the condition, the rarer the model, and the higher the performance, the more money your car will fetch. A meticulously built car from a junkyard find can often sell for many times its initial cost and repair expenses, providing a substantial profit and a sense of accomplishment. This is the ultimate test of your skills in how to build a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018. For more information on car maintenance and restoration, visit maxmotorsmissouri.com.
Building a car in Car Mechanic Simulator 2018 is a deeply rewarding experience, transforming a virtual wreck into a prized possession. It’s a process that demands patience, precision, and an understanding of automotive mechanics. By following these detailed steps, you can confidently navigate the complexities of restoration and enjoy the satisfaction of seeing your custom-built vehicle roll out of the garage, ready for the open road or a lucrative sale.
Last Updated on October 10, 2025 by Cristian Steven
