Repainting your car is a significant decision that can rejuvenate its appearance and enhance its durability. A fresh coat of paint not only gives your vehicle a like-new look but also helps protect it from environmental damage.
However, this process involves both financial investment and time commitment. Understanding what’s involved can help you make an informed decision and ensure you achieve the best results.
Key Takeaways
1. Repainting your car can rejuvenate its appearance and enhance its durability, but it requires both financial investment and time.
2. The cost to paint a car varies significantly based on factors like the quality of paint, the extent of the job, and the vehicle’s size, ranging from $700 to over $45,000.
3. To get a precise estimate and ensure a quality paint job, consult with an expert like Badell’s Collision, serving Aston and Malvern, Pennsylvania.
How Much Does it Cost to Paint a Car?
On average, you can expect to pay around $700 to $7,000 for a basic paint job and approximately $9,000 to $12,000 for a good-quality, thorough paint job from a reputable shop. While an expensive paint job might not be justified for an economy car, it can be a worthwhile investment for valuable classic or collector cars, where a showroom-quality finish, potentially costing $45,000 or more, helps restore and enhance the vehicle’s pristine condition.
The cost to paint a car can vary significantly based on the quality, extent of the paint job, and several other factors. Below is a breakdown of the typical price ranges for different levels of paint jobs:
Basic Paint Job:
- Price Range: $700 – $7,000
- Details: Involves using fewer coats of paint, minimal prep work, and may exclude areas not normally visible, like inside the hood. Lower-quality paint is often used.
Standard Paint Job:
- Price Range: $1,200 – $12,000
- Details: Includes sanding the body, removing rust before painting, and using higher-quality paint and materials. More thorough prep work results in a nicer overall finish.
Showroom Quality Paint Job:
- Price Range: $6,000 – $45,000+
- Details: Involves sanding down to bare metal, removing all rust and dents, and applying up to 24 coats of high-quality paint. This meticulous process can take up to a month and provides a pristine, better-than-factory finish.
Trust Badell’s Collision to deliver high-quality paint jobs that meet your needs and budget. Whether you’re looking for a basic refresh or a showroom-quality finish, our expert team is here to help. Serving Delaware County and Chester County, Pennsylvania, we’re committed to restoring your car to its best condition.
How Much Does It Cost to Fix Chipped Paint on a Car?
On average, expect to pay between $350 to $600 for a mobile technician to repair minor paint chips, scratches, and scrapes on your vehicle. This won’t make it look brand new but will be much cheaper than a body shop and look significantly better.
The cost to fix chipped paint on a car varies depending on the severity of the damage. Here is a breakdown of the typical price ranges:
Minor Damage ($165 – $350)
- Small chips no bigger than a pencil eraser
- Requires a skilled technician to match the paint color perfectly
Moderate Damage ($350 – $950)
- Larger paint chips that require more paint and labor to repair
- May include a few rock chips on the hood or light scratches
Severe Damage ($1,000+)
- Extensive paint damage across the car
- Final price depends on location, type of paint, and labor rates
For the best results on severe damage, especially on horizontal surfaces like the hood, take your car to a body shop. They will charge $600 to $1,500 per panel but have the controlled environment needed for a factory-grade finish.
When to Get a Car Painted?
Many people may have concerns about when to get their car painted. In some cases, you will have an obvious sign that you need new paint. For example, if the paint is peeling, damaged, or discolored in various areas, then you need a paint job to refresh the look of your vehicle.
Deciding when to paint your car depends on several factors, including the condition of the existing paint, your budget, and your goals for the vehicle. Here are some common scenarios when a new paint job might be necessary:
- Fading or Peeling Paint. Over time, exposure to the sun, weather, and road conditions can cause your car’s paint to fade, peel, or oxidize. If your car’s paint is showing signs of wear, it’s a good time to consider repainting to restore its appearance and protect the metal underneath.
- Rust or Corrosion. Rust and corrosion not only look unsightly but can also damage your car’s structural integrity. If you notice rust spots or corrosion, especially in areas like the wheel wells or undercarriage, a fresh coat of paint can help seal and protect the metal.
- Accident Damage. After a collision or accident, repainting might be necessary to restore your car’s appearance. Even minor fender benders can result in scratches or dents that require repainting as part of the repair process.
- Customizing Your Vehicle. If you’re looking to personalize your car or give it a fresh new look, a custom paint job is an excellent way to achieve that. Whether you want to change the color or add special finishes, painting can give your car a unique, standout appearance.
- Increasing Resale Value. A fresh paint job can significantly enhance your car’s resale value, especially if the existing paint is in poor condition. Buyers are often more attracted to vehicles with a clean, well-maintained exterior.
- Restoring a Classic Car. For classic car enthusiasts, repainting is often part of the restoration process. Whether you’re bringing an old car back to life or maintaining its historical value, a showroom-quality paint job can make all the difference.
You can also get a paint job on your vehicle if you want a new color, want to maintain your vehicle after several years, or you simply feel that it is time for new paint.
Where Can I Get My Car Painted?
You can get your car painted at auto body shops, dealership service centers, or specialized paint and detail shops. The best option depends on your needs, budget, and the quality you’re seeking. Auto body shops typically offer a range of services, from basic to high-end paint jobs.
For those in Delaware County and Chester County, Pennsylvania, Badell’s Collision is your top choice for expert car painting services. Whether you’re looking for a basic refresh or a complete color change, our skilled team delivers high-quality paint jobs every time. Contact Badell’s Collision today to schedule your free estimate and give your car the fresh, new look it deserves.
Factors That Can Affect the Cost to Repaint My Car
Repainting your car can be a great way to refresh its look or restore it after damage, but several factors influence the overall cost. Understanding these can help you make informed decisions.
- Size of the Vehicle. Larger vehicles, such as trucks or SUVs, require more paint and labor, making them more expensive to repaint than smaller cars.
- Paint Quality. Higher-quality, more durable paints cost more but provide better longevity and finish.
- Color Choice. Standard colors like black or white are typically less expensive, while custom or rare colors can increase costs.
- Prep Work Required. The extent of sanding, rust removal, and other prep work needed before painting will significantly impact the price.
- Bodywork Needed. If your car has dents, rust, or other damage, additional bodywork will add to the cost of repainting.
- Location and Expertise. The shop’s location and the expertise of the technicians can also affect the overall cost, with more experienced professionals charging higher rates.
5 Facts to Consider Before Getting Your Car Repainted
Before bringing your vehicle to a paint or auto body shop, take some time to get the facts. Understanding what the painting process entails makes it easier to choose whether or not to have your vehicle repainted. Armed with the facts, you can make a more informed decision.
Painting a Vehicle Takes Time
Some vehicle paint shops boast a turn-around time of three days or less, but in general, you should expect your car to be in the shop for at least a week. Why does it take so much time for the car to be repainted? New paint cannot be applied directly to old paint.
The fading, oxidation, and irregular surface of a vehicle’s existing paint does not allow for the smooth application of a new coat. Removal of the existing layers of paint and other prep work must be completed before new paint can be applied. If a car requires extensive prep work, the total price of the paint job will also be raised.
A car can’t be painted in just any environment. The booths where paint is applied need to be clean, free of dust and other particulates, and free of moisture to aid in application and drying. This requires advanced exhaust systems, heaters and computer controlled mixing systems, so they can roll onto the road looking their best after the treatment.
New Paint Won’t Fix Everything
It’s important to have realistic expectations with repainting or paint repair. “Sometimes new paint has the opposite effect,” says Brandon Badell, owner. “If you want to paint over damage without fixing it properly, a fresh coat of shiny paint can actually highlight problem areas.”
For the best results, the auto body shop should first remove the old paint on the car and fix any damage that is present. Car paint damage can include:
- Scratches,
- Gouges,
- Dents,
- Pits,
- Rust spots,
- Holes.
Painting (Usually) Adds Value
Having your car repainted is an investment in many ways. Not only will you treat yourself to a vehicle with a like-new finish, but you will also add to its residual or resale value. You can get a higher trade-in value for an older vehicle by investing in repainting. You can also raise your asking price when selling a used car directly to a buyer.
But, for cars more than 10 years old, you should consider if the improved trade-in value will outweigh the price of repainting the car.
A functional older vehicle can be transformed with a coat of fresh paint. Just make sure that it will be a valuable investment. If the car isn’t in good condition otherwise, repainting it may turn out to be more expensive than the car is worth on resale.
Some insurance policies cover the cost of bodywork if the vehicle was damaged in an accident. Check with your insurance company to see if your coverage will help pay for the costs of repainting your car.
There Are Different Types of Car Paint
One factor to consider when painting your vehicle is the type of paint used by a professional repair and auto body shop. You should be aware that different types of paint are available, and the quality of the paint may vary significantly across brands and types.
Generally, the types of paint fall into four main categories:
- Water-based paint
- Acrylic lacquer paint
- Urethane paint
- Acrylic enamel paint
In most cases, urethane paint is used when you want a long-lasting paint job on your vehicle. You can also opt for acrylic enamel paint on your vehicle for long-lasting results. Water-based paints are the sustainable option that is ideal if you want your car’s paint to be environmentally friendly.
The acrylic lacquer paint is the thinnest option and does not last as long as other paint jobs; however, it is the lowest cost, and you can have a top coat added to make it last longer.
By taking the type of paint into account when looking at paint for your vehicle, you can evaluate the benefits and the durability of the paint over time. It helps you find the right option for your vehicle.
Car Paint Doesn’t Last Forever
The short answer is 10-15 years. The long answer is that paint durability on a vehicle varies based on the type of paint, quality, and the final touches used by professionals.
As a general rule, you want to get your car painted every five to ten years. If your vehicle is kept in a garage with limited UV damage, then you may be able to get your paint to last longer. Vehicles that spend most of their time outdoors in the sun may need new paint more often.
You should also consider any maintenance details put into your vehicle. For example, if you regularly wax your vehicle, then your paint lasts longer. If you do not wax your vehicle, then you can expect lower durability.
If you choose water-based paint or acrylic lacquer paint, then you can expect the paint to last around five years. You can increase the paint’s lifespan with a topcoat; however, exact durability is relatively low compared to other options. If you choose urethane paint, you will have the most long-lasting results and may hold off on new paint for over five years.
Learn more from the experts about Paintless Dent Repair.
How to Decide If a Paint Job Is Good
The best way to evaluate is to inspect the job at each phase, not just at the end. Use natural and artificial light at different angles to highlight any flaws. Don’t be afraid to refer to the contract and point out issues respectfully but firmly.
A professional paint job requires proper prep work, skilled application, attention to detail, and thorough cleanup. The extra effort will be visible in the final beautiful, durable result. On the other hand, a cheap paint job might cut corners, using lower-quality materials, skipping essential prep steps, and applying fewer coats of paint.
While a cheap paint job might save you money upfront, it often leads to additional costs down the line for touch-ups or a full repaint.
Inspect the following stages and outcome of the paint job:
Surface Preparation
- Walls should be smooth and even, with no visible bumps, dents, or holes
- Any cracks or damage should be properly patched and primed before painting
- Surfaces should be thoroughly cleaned and prepped before painting
Paint Application
- Paint coverage should be even and consistent, with no thin or missed spots
- There should be no visible brush strokes, roller marks, drips, or splatters
- Cut-in lines around trim, ceilings, and color changes should be straight and crisp
- Paint should not be on adjacent surfaces like trim, fixtures, or window glass
Color and Sheen
- Color should be uniform throughout, with no lighter or darker patches
- Sheen should be consistent on each surface (walls, trim, etc.)
- Touch-up paint should be provided for future repairs in the correct color and sheen
Workmanship Details
- Gaps between trim and walls should be caulked before painting, not after
- Nail holes in trim should be filled and painted
- Doors should be painted on all sides, including top and bottom edges
- Painters should protect landscaping, clean up spills, and leave the site tidy
Trust the Car Paint Professionals at Badell’s Collision
Choosing the right paint job for your car involves understanding various factors, from paint quality to the necessary prep work. Investing in a professional paint job ensures a durable, high-quality finish that enhances both the appearance and value of your vehicle.
At Badell’s Collision, located in Aston and Malvern, Pennsylvania, we are dedicated to providing exceptional car paint services tailored to your needs. Ready to transform your vehicle? Complete our online estimate form, and one of our experts will be happy to answer your questions and guide you through the process.
Trust Badell’s Collision to deliver the quality and care your car deserves.
Fill out our online estimate form and one of our reps will be more than happy to answer any questions you have and help get you started.
