A man's dream of owning a restored classic car turned into a nightmare when he received his 1969 Ford Mustang Mach 1 back in worse condition than he left it. After paying $24,312 for the restoration, Kevin Bickley was left with a car that had been stripped and was missing several parts. The ordeal began five years after Bickley dropped off his car at Miller's Performance and Restoration in Sevierville, Tennessee.
In October 2020, Bickley handed over his Mustang to the shop for a six-month restoration project, which included new transmission, wheels, custom interior, and a paint job. Despite paying a total of $24,312, the car sat idle for years with no signs of completion. Bickley visited the shop multiple times to assist with the work, but progress was slow.
The lack of progress led lawyers to get involved, making promises to finish the car, but ultimately failing to deliver. Frustrated and desperate, Bickley took the shop to court to retrieve his car, which he finally did after a lengthy battle. However, when he received the car back, it was in even worse condition than before.
The extent of the damage is staggering, with several parts missing or stripped from the vehicle. The rear axle and front suspension were removed, leaving the car's structural integrity compromised. Bickley expressed his disappointment and frustration at the state of his beloved Mustang.
Bickley's experience is not an isolated incident, as another customer, Jeff Ratliff, had a similar story with his 1956 Ford F-100. Despite paying $25,000 for a restomod build, Ratliff received nothing but a partially disassembled truck with no work completed.
The case highlights the importance of clear communication and timely completion in restoration projects. When customers entrust their vehicles to shops, they expect a certain level of quality and service. In this instance, Miller's Performance and Restoration failed to meet those expectations.
Corey Miller, the shop owner, claimed that he was not at fault for the delays and lack of progress. He argued that Bickley had not paid for all the parts and materials required for the restoration, which led to additional costs and delays. However, this excuse does little to justify the shop's failure to complete the work.
The indictment of Corey Miller on five counts of unlawfully and knowingly controlling personal property has brought attention to the need for greater accountability in the automotive restoration industry. The charges stem from Bickley's Mustang and two other vehicles belonging to customers who were similarly exploited by Miller's shop.
As the trial approaches in April 2026, it remains to be seen whether Corey Miller will face justice for his actions. The case serves as a cautionary tale for car owners who entrust their vehicles to restoration shops, highlighting the importance of thoroughly researching and vetting potential contractors before handing over their prized possessions.
