The Journey Begins
Every car has a story, but few get to live two lives. Our latest project, a 2008 Toyota Yaris, embarked on a transformative journey from a neglected state to a revitalized gem. Originally dressed in white and plagued with issues, this Yaris was about to undergo a Rust to Dust resurrection.

Stripping Down to the Bones
The first step was to strip the Yaris down to its frame, a meticulous process that laid bare all its flaws and potential. It was a stark reminder of the work ahead but also a clean slate for rebirth.




 Engine and Transmission Revival
The heart and soul of any car, the engine block and transmission were carefully cleaned of all dirt and corrosion. A fresh coat of paint was applied, giving them a new lease on life and ensuring they were ready to power the Yaris into its next chapter.



 


 A New Coat of Confidence
Choosing a vibrant orange, we departed from the Yaris's original white, aiming to mirror its renewed spirit. The addition of custom decals added a unique flair, making this Yaris unmistakably one-of-a-kind.


 The Giant Puzzle
Reassembly was like putting together a giant puzzle, with each piece meticulously cleaned, repaired, or replaced. This stage not only tested our patience but also our commitment to detail.


 Hidden Challenges
An OBD reader flagged an exhaust issue, solved by replacing the oxygen sensors. A corroded Heater Fan Resistor and a missing AC cabin air filter hinted at neglected maintenance. Extensive cleaning of the AC ducting and a repair of rust damage in the rear boot were unexpected yet critical steps in our restoration.

List of Replacements and Additions:
The rebuild saw a long list of parts replaced or added, including but not limited to:

  • Angel Eyes Projector Head Lights, Fog Light Kit, and Android Carplay Head Unit for modern functionality.
  • Upstream Lambda Oxygen Sensor, Rear Oxygen Sensor, and Cabin Air Filter to address mechanical issues.
  • Aesthetic and functional upgrades like Bfgoodrich Tires and King Rocket Rims.
  • Essential repairs including a new Radiator, Drive Shaft, Shock Absorbers, and a thorough AC system restoration.



The Result
With a total rebuild cost of $7,775.59 on top of the initial $4,500 purchase, this project was a labor of love and investment in longevity. The Yaris now runs better than ever, offering a comfortable ride and the kind of reliability that only comes from deep, hands-on restoration.

More Than Just a Car
This Yaris isn't just a vehicle; it's a testament to the joy of restoration and the adventures that await on the open road. It's proof that with enough love and elbow grease, any car can be reborn. For us, this Yaris is a reminder of why we started Rust to Dust: to breathe new life into the forgotten and to find beauty in the journey of transformation.

We embark on these projects not just to restore cars but to rediscover the stories they carry. This Yaris, with its vibrant orange hue and roaring engine, is ready to write its next chapter. And we're just getting started.