It’s unfortunate that in today’s world, someone can attempt to discredit a company without ever having experienced it firsthand. This individual Paul H in review (above/below) has never commissioned a Helderburg, never visited our workshop, and never spoken with our team—yet chose to leave a negative review.
Fortunately, our reputation speaks for itself. The thousands of hours we put into every bespoke build are documented in the detailed videos we share, and more importantly, in the words and experiences of our clients. From the craftsmanship to the quality of our materials, Helderburg stands as a benchmark of excellence in the classic Defender world.
We invite anyone with genuine interest to look beyond anonymous noise and instead explore the truth—our work, our people, and the passion behind every Defender we create.
One unsubstantiated review pales in comparison to the voices of those who have actually lived the Helderburg experience.
By Paul P.
Buyer Beware: My Experience with Paul Potratz & Helderburg
Buyer Beware: My Experience with Paul Potratz & Helderburg
As a business owner and car collector, I don't take writing this kind of review lightly. I make every effort to resolve issues privately and amicably, and the last thing I want is to make a situation public. Unfortunately, after numerous attempts to work with Paul Potratz of Helderburg in good faith, I've come to the conclusion that going public is necessary to help others avoid a similar experience.
The Purchase
I contacted Paul after seeing a vehicle listed for sale on the Helderburg website. The car was described as a flawless, "perfect" restoration--exactly what I had been looking for.
We spoke by phone and text, and Paul confirmed the condition as described. His listing provided photos and videos, which I later discovered were not recent but several years old.
Despite normally traveling to inspect high-value vehicles in person, I felt comfortable proceeding based on the detailed information shared. Paul sent a bill of sale and wire instructions, and I submitted payment promptly.
That's when the issues began.
Paul informed me that the vehicle had been sitting for approximately six months and needed to be checked over by his mechanic. While not ideal, I appreciated the step and was told it would be inspected and serviced prior to shipment.
Delivery Day
When the car arrived, it was idling rough right off the trailer. I chalked it up to a cold start--but once in proper lighting, it became painfully clear this was not the "perfect" restoration I had paid for.
Paint & Body
The listing claimed: "The paint is perfect without 1 chip, spec or scratch."In reality, the car had numerous scratches, dings, chips, and even visible clear coat runs.
Interior
Described as "perfect," the interior had a peeling dash, rusted and creaking seat frames, sagging and cracked door cards, missing knobs, and a broken window crank.
Mechanical
The car was described as having a rebuilt engine and fully restored suspension. However, it exhibited loud clunking, creaking, and instability. My mechanic later confirmed the rear shocks were worn out, along with various bushings.
Most notably, the car was running extremely lean and poorly. We discovered it had the wrong mechanical fuel injection pump installed--one that wasn't even designed for this year or model. Replacing and calibrating this component is a $6,000+ repair alone.
My Attempt to Resolve It
I contacted Paul the same day the vehicle arrived. I was calm and respectful and expressed my concerns. He asked if I wanted the driver to pick up the car, which I initially interpreted as an offer to unwind the deal. I agreed, and asked him to send the driver back.
Instead, Paul called to clarify he meant sending the car to my mechanic--not returning it. I was stunned. I explained again that the vehicle was significantly misrepresented and that a return would be in both parties' best interest. He told me he no longer had the funds to take the car back.
At that point, it became clear that even if he agreed to return it, recovering my funds would be difficult. My only realistic option was to begin cataloging the issues and determine what it would cost to bring the car to the condition promised.
Despite presenting photos, videos, and third-party statements to back up every issue, Paul remained defensive and dismissive. I never demanded a specific dollar amount--only asked that he offer something meaningful to help resolve the situation. His only offer: a contribution toward paintless dent repair and a detail.
Final Thoughts
I truly wanted to believe this was all an honest misunderstanding. But after repeated opportunities to acknowledge the discrepancies and make things right, Paul's refusal to take responsibility has led me to believe otherwise.
I strongly advise others to avoid purchasing a vehicle from Paul Potratz or Helderburg. The brand image may present a sense of care and craftsmanship--but in my case, that image did not align with reality.
At this point, I've turned the matter over to legal counsel and am preparing to pursue formal complaints.
