Handcrafted Vintage Jeeps.
Vigilante is the Ultimate Classic Jeep, Re-engineered on a Modern Platform.
We started with over 20 years of experience through our sister company, JeepHeritage. After impeccably restoring dozens of classic Jeeps by the book, it was time to shake things up and upgrade them to modern standards.
Vigilante maintains the tradition of attention to detail in the restoration process while incorporating modern and reliable drivetrains and improved functionality.
With the help of CAD-engineering, the vintage Jeeps’ handling, braking, and overall performances are close to those of a modern SUV. However, the design lines of these American icons remain untouched.
Vintage Soul.
Modern Performance.
Meticulous Restoration Detail.
In the press.
810HP HELLCAT Redeye Powered Jeep Grand Wagoneer [4K]
“Built from a solid Texas-sourced 1988 model, this Jeep has been meticulously stripped down to the metal to ensure a flawless foundation for our high-performance build. Featuring a Supercharged 6.2L HEMI V8 Hellcat Redeye with 810hp / 707 lbs-ft torque and a Vigilante chassis/suspension. This is no longer a boring old Jeep so sit back and enjoy the ride...”
Autotopia LA
Legends Rebuilt.
Welcome to the frontier of bespoke automotive craftsmanship. In these latest articles, we explore the stories, innovations, and legacy behind our one-of-a-kind Jeep restorations.
Whether you're a collector, enthusiast, or someone seeking a rolling piece of art — this is where engineering meets emotion.
Our Restoration Process.
At Vigilante, our restorations are of similar quality to what you would expect to find on high-end brands such as Ferrari, Porsche, or Bugatti. We deliver a better than new vehicle.
We specialize in Jeep models originally sold between 1964 and 1991 - better known as the Full-Size Jeeps. Three American icons that were brought to market with the following purposes: work, family, and pleasure.
Jeep Wagoneer (1964-1991), Jeep Cherokee (1974-1983), Jeep J-truck (1964-1983).
Take a peak at the shop.
Rachel explains the different stages of a restoration and the particular care taken at all stages. Dive in to discover the high standards we set for ourselves.
Vigilante Formula.
The handling, braking, and overall performance of Vigilante Jeeps are nearly on par with modern SUVs. Yet, the iconic American design lines of these vehicles remain untouched.
A Custom-Built Chassis Capable of Handling Modern Power.
20 years of JeepHeritage experience have allowed us to understand the good and the not so good of the original designs. The objective of Vigilante is to keep the good and update the Jeeps to today’s standards.
A New Chassis with Modern Suspension.
A chassis built to our specifications allows us to handle the power of modern HEMI engines and deliver a fresh driving experience due to modern suspension and true braking capacity.
High Performance & Reliability.
The crate engines found in our Vigilante vehicles are the same as those found in today’s JEEP and DODGE SRT and TRACKHAWK vehicles, ranging from 485hp up to 860hp.
Vigilante Technical Specifications.
Inventory.
As a boutique restoration shop, we specialize in built-to-order vehicles, crafted from either a client's supplied vehicle or one from our donor inventory. We rarely have finished vehicles in stock; however, previous builds occasionally become available for immediate purchase through trade-ins.
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![A vintage two-tone red and wood-paneled SUV parked on a sandy beach with palm trees and mountains in the background.]()
VIGILANTE Jeep Grand Wagoneer 1988
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![A vintage blue Jeep parked on a paved driveway next to a landscaped area with bushes and greenery. In the background, there are buildings with sloped roofs and a partly cloudy blue sky.]()
VIGILANTE Jeep Cherokee S 1975
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![A maroon vintage SUV parked on the side of a rural road with two cows grazing behind a fence, trees, and a cloudy sky in the background.]()
JEEP Cherokee Golden Hawk 1980
Our Shop.
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![A vintage turquoise pickup truck with a white camper shell parked outside a modern black building with large windows and surrounded by trees.]()
Book Your Journey
Right off of US-290, our facilities are not accessible to the public. We are, however, available, on appointment-only to discuss builds and progress.
We will gladly pick you up from nearby Austin or San Antonio airport too.
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![Close-up of a high-performance brake rotor attached to a vehicle suspension system in a garage with shelves and a painting of a mountain landscape in the background.]()
Chassis Assembly
Vigilante platforms get assembled by hand after they have gone through rust protection treatment and powder-coating finishing.
All mechanical components are sourced new and assembled at this stage too. -
![Inside a garage, a partially assembled vintage pickup truck with an exposed engine, alongside other vintage and classic vehicles including a blue Jeep and a red truck with wooden paneling.]()
Body to Frame Marriage
After the mechanical interface is secured and pre-run on the Vigilante platform, we drop freshly painted classic Jeep bodies on top of them, giving shape to the final product.
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![A red vintage SUV with wood paneling on the sides, parked inside a spacious garage or workshop.]()
Final Assembly
Its now time to build up interiors, install fresh wiring, put back new glass, trim, bumpers, seats, …
Extensive use of heat and sound insulation comes standard in all our builds.
Premium Jeep Restoration Parts Now Available
For a quarter-century, our sister brand, JeepHeritage, has poured its heart and soul into classic restoration of vintage Jeeps, bringing legendary rigs back to life with unmatched precision.
For the enthusiast Jeep community, we are now, we're shifting gears to focus purely on what you need to keep your own build running strong and looking right. JeepHeritage will now be your dedicated, parts-only website for top-quality components, crafted with the same dedication and precision you've come to expect from our full Vigilante restomods. Get ready to elevate your Jeep, one component at a time, with the parts trusted by the best in the business.
Previous Restorations.
Take a journey through our gallery, where passion meets precision, and discover the beauty of our restored Jeep vehicles.
Our Team.
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![A man working underneath a boat, using a hammer to make repairs in a workshop filled with tools and equipment.]()
Our Metalwork Masters
Crafting Excellence in Body Sheet Repair. Our skilled artisans meticulously sculpt and repair every metal sheet, ensuring precision and durability in every restoration. From dents to dings, they bring your vehicle's body back to life with expert craftsmanship and attention to detail.
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![Person wearing a mask and protective gear spray painting the interior of a metal aircraft fuselage or similar structure in a spray booth.]()
Our Paint Perfectionists
Elevating Every Finish with Flawless Precision. Our talented team in the Car Body Paint Department meticulously applies each coat, ensuring seamless finishes and vibrant colors. With an eye for detail and a passion for perfection, they transform vehicles into stunning works of art, leaving a lasting impression wherever they go
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![Two people working on restoring or repairing the interior of a vintage red vehicle, with tools and parts scattered around inside a workshop.]()
Our Upholstery Artisans
Crafting Timeless Interior Beauty. In our Upholstery Department, skilled artisans meticulously restore every detail of your vehicle's interior, ensuring a faithful and elegant rejuvenation. With expert craftsmanship and meticulous attention to detail, we revitalize each component, preserving its unique charm and character for years to come.
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![Person working on a computer designing a mechanical part in CAD software.]()
Our Engineering Innovators
Balancing Tradition and Innovation. In our Engineering Department, we blend vintage charm with modern tech. Our team expertly upgrades components, ensuring your vehicle stays true to its roots while embracing the latest advancements
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![Three men working on a car engine in a garage, discussing and inspecting the engine parts.]()
Our Meticulous Mechanics
Crafting Precision in Every Detail. With expert hands and sharp attention to detail, they ensure every component is flawlessly mounted, guaranteeing top-notch performance in every vehicle we restore.
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![A man and woman standing in front of a red Jeep with an open hood, inside a garage or workshop.]()
Detail-Oriented CEO
Passionate about Time-Correct Excellence. They oversee every detail, ensuring authenticity in every project. From vintage restoration to modernization, their vision guarantees excellence and historical accuracy in every vehicle.
Vigilante in the Press
Test-Driving A Hemi V8-Powered, Six-Speed Manual Jeep By Vigilante 4x4
“That surprising statistic indicates just how much the relatively young Vigilante 4x4 continues to lead the charge in today’s exploding restomod industry. With a waitlist around three years, plenty of demand clearly exists for Jeeps that deliver just the right combination of modern performance and creature comforts, improving on the spirit of the originals while serving as an antidote for the recent rash of uber-flashy 1,000-horsepower carbon-fiber muscle cars flooding the market lately”
Michael Van Runkle
Visit Us
128 Martin Bros Lane
Johnson City, TX 78636
Hours
Monday–Friday
8am–5pm
On appointment only.
Phone
+1830-330-4600
Contact Us or Book a Meeting.
We are a family owned business and build vehicles that are designed to be enjoyed and passed on from one generation to the next. If our process is something that speaks to you, don’t hesitate to contact us using the form below or book an appointment so we can thoroughly answer all your questions!
Want to chat?
Or leave your message here.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Here, you'll find answers to the most common questions about VIGILANTE's bespoke Jeep restoration process, pricing, and overall client experience. We aim to provide transparency and clarity as you consider embarking on your own unique automotive journey with us.
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A high-end restoration, such as those offered by VIGILANTE 4x4, generally takes between 24 and 36 months, depending on the level of customization and project complexity. A build time of 24 months after order approval and deposit receipt is often mentioned, with the restomod process typically spanning 18 to 24 months. The VIGILANTE process is a meticulous transformation that requires time, expertise, and passion, as each vehicle is a rolling work of art.
https://www.vigilante4x4.com/jeep-full-size-restoration-process -
VIGILANTE projects typically start from $295,000, aligning with the standards of the leading high-end restomod market players. This budget includes high-performance parts, artisanal craftsmanship, and personalized client support. More accessible offers have been mentioned, with entry prices $245,000 for a limited number of builds. The total cost of a high-end restomod project can be comparable to acquiring a new luxury vehicle.
https://www.vigilante4x4.com/vigilante4x4-packages-and-pricing
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Not necessarily. VIGILANTE can source a donor vehicle for the client, based on project specifics, and conducts a thorough inspection of its condition before starting. Clients also have the option to provide their own vehicle.
https://www.vigilante4x4.com/jeep-full-size-restoration-process/jeep-concept
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Absolutely. Each restored Jeep undergoes rigorous testing for 750 to 1,000 miles (approximately 1,200 to 1,600 km) under varied conditions before delivery to ensure its reliability. The goal is to deliver a vehicle as dependable and enjoyable as a modern SUV, while retaining its vintage style.
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Yes. VIGILANTE has delivered restored vehicles across the United States, Europe, and the Middle East. Shipping can be organized by the seller but is not included in the quoted price.
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Yes. Multiple customization options are available, from the choice of engine and transmission to the color of seat stitching. Each project is unique, and clients are guided at every step by a dedicated designer to create a vehicle that reflects their vision and personality.
https://www.vigilante4x4.com/jeep-full-size-restoration-process/jeep-concept
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Yes, by appointment only. VIGILANTE regularly welcomes clients to our workshop to see ongoing projects and better understand our approach. VIP workshop tours are also offered.
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Where possible, yes. VIGILANTE collaborates closely with its clients, and some adjustments can be made during construction, provided they do not compromise the technical balance or project timelines.
https://www.vigilante4x4.com/jeep-full-size-restoration-process/jeep-concept
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We have an abundant inventory of Jeep Wagoneers, Grand Wagoneers, Cherokees and Trucks in the starting blocks. These donors are ready to be customized to your desired specifications.
See here
Still Have Questions? Let's Talk.
We understand that a project of this caliber can bring many questions. If you haven't found the answers you're looking for in our FAQ, our experts are here to provide personalized guidance.
Book a private consultation with one of our specialists today to discuss your vision, explore options, or simply get more details about the VIGILANTE experience.
You can also reach us directly by phone at +1830-330-4600.