How much does it cost to fully paint a car?
The typical professional full repaint of a car costs roughly $3,000 to $10,000, with cheaper options around $2,000–$3,000 and premium, custom finishes that can exceed $15,000 depending on quality, color, and prep requirements.
Costs vary widely based on factors such as vehicle size, the condition of the existing finish, the complexity of the color work, and the level of prep and finish you want. Modern shops often use waterborne basecoats with clear coats, and prices reflect both material costs and skilled labor in a competitive market as of 2024–2025.
Price ranges by quality
To give readers a sense of the spread, here are common ranges quoted by auto body shops for a full exterior repaint on a typical passenger car. The figures include prep, primer, basecoat, clearcoat, masking, and final polish, but do not assume additional bodywork or rust repair unless noted.
- Economy/entry-level repaint: $2,000 – $4,000
- Mid-range repaint (basecoat + clearcoat, standard metallic color, typical prep): $4,000 – $7,000
- Premium showroom-quality repaint: $7,000 – $12,000
- Luxury/custom or specialty finishes (candy, pearl, multi-color, extensive prep): $12,000 – $25,000+
Prices can be higher in urban areas or for larger vehicles like SUVs and trucks, due to extra material and labor. They can also rise if the color change is drastic or if extensive bodywork is required to prep the surface properly.
What affects the price
Several key factors determine the final quote. Understanding these helps you compare bids and set realistic expectations.
- Car size and number of panels — larger vehicles and many panels require more material and time.
- Current condition and prep needs — rust repair, dent removal, and sanding add cost.
- Color change and finish type — changing from one color to another or using metallic/pearlescent/three-stage clears increases cost.
- Paint system and quality — single-stage enamel is cheaper; basecoat/clearcoat with premium finishes costs more.
- Labor rates and market location — urban shops and high-cost regions charge more per hour.
- Masking and trim removal — extensive masking or removal of trim and glass adds labor time.
- Warranty and service guarantees — some shops include color-matching guarantees or post-paint polishing in the price.
In short, the final price reflects both the material costs of the paint system and the labor needed to achieve a smooth, durable finish, along with any specialized work the car requires.
What happens during a full paint job
Preparation and bodywork
Prep work is the foundation of a lasting paint job. Technicians remove contaminants, repair dents, address rust, and sand surfaces to create a smooth base. This stage often determines the quality and longevity of the finish and can be the most time-consuming part of the project.
Masking, priming, and basecoat
After the surface is prepared, the car is masked to protect trim and glass. A primer or sealer is applied, followed by the basecoat of the chosen color. The color layer is carefully matched and tested for even coverage, especially on curves and edges.
Clear coat and finish
A clear coat is applied to protect the color and add depth and gloss. Many modern finishes involve multiple clear layers and may include polishing steps to remove imperfections and achieve a showroom shine.
Polishing, inspection, and delivery
Finally, technicians buff and inspect the surface for consistency, wipe down the car, reinstall trim, and ensure the finish meets the shop’s standards. A warranty or color-match guarantee may accompany the work, depending on the provider.
How to save money without sacrificing quality
Smart planning can help you control costs while still getting a durable, attractive finish. Here are practical steps to consider.
- Get multiple, itemized quotes to compare scope and inclusions.
- Ask about what’s included for prep and bodywork; request a breakdown for materials and labor.
- Choose a color with lower maintenance requirements (shades that don’t show minor defects as easily).
- Limit complex finishes (e.g., avoid multiple-stage candy or pearl without necessity).
- Inquire about warranties on the paint and how long color matching is guaranteed.
Being clear about expectations and the level of prep you need can prevent sticker shock later and help you pick a price point that balances cost, durability, and appearance.
Summary
For most cars, a full professional repaint falls in the $3,000 to $10,000 range, with lower-end jobs around $2,000–$4,000 and premium, custom finishes frequently exceeding $12,000 and potentially reaching $25,000 for elaborate work. The exact price depends on vehicle size, desired finish, current paint condition, and labor costs in your area. Plan ahead, request itemized estimates, and choose a finish that aligns with your budget and how long you intend to keep the car.
How much does it cost to fully paint a vehicle?
Average cost to paint a car
| Type of Paint Job | Cost Range |
|---|---|
| Basic paint job | $500 to $1,000 |
| Mid-range paint job | $1,000 to $5,000 |
| High-end paint job | $5,000 to $10,000 |
How much is full body work on a car?
Auto body repair costs in 2025 vary based on the type of damage, repair method, and your vehicle's make and model. Minor repairs like scratches and small dents can cost between $100 and $2,500, while major structural damage can exceed $10,000.
How much does it cost to paint your full car?
The average cost of a car respray in the UK is around £2,400, though this can vary depending on the extent of damage and required repairs. Full repairs before painting can push costs up to £3,000 or even £5,000, while respraying a single panel or bumper may cost just £250–£400.
Is it worth getting a paint job on a car?
Repainting a car can be worth it if it has significant damage or fading that lowers its appearance and resale value, or if you plan to keep the car long-term and want to protect it from further environmental damage. However, it may not be worth the high cost if the car's value is low, as the expense could exceed 30% of the vehicle's worth. In cases where the paint is only slightly damaged, repairing individual panels or getting a professional detail might be a more cost-effective solution.
Reasons to consider repainting
- Improved appearance: A fresh coat of paint can make an older or damaged car look like new, enhancing its overall appeal.
- Increased resale value: A well-done paint job can significantly increase the car's resale value, as buyers are more likely to purchase a car that looks well-maintained.
- Protection: New paint protects the car's body from environmental damage like UV rays, scratches, and corrosion, which can extend the life of the vehicle.
- Restoration: Repainting can be a key part of restoring a classic or vintage car to its original condition.
- Customization: It provides an opportunity to change the color or add a custom finish to personalize the vehicle.
When to reconsider repainting
- High cost: The cost of a quality paint job can be very high. If the price of repainting is more than 30% of the car's value, it may not make financial sense.
- Minor damage: If your car only has minor scratches or fading, a professional detail or spot repair on the affected panels may be a much cheaper alternative to a full repaint.
- Low car value: If the car has a low overall value, the cost of a new paint job may be more than the car is worth, making it more practical to sell and buy a different vehicle.
- Risk of poor quality: A low-quality paint job can cause more problems than it solves, including ill-fitting parts, paint errors, and future corrosion issues.
Alternatives to full repainting
- Panel-by-panel repair: Get specific panels with damage repaired and repainted instead of the entire car.
- Professional detailing: A thorough detailing, including polishing and waxing, can improve the look of the existing paint.
- Paint protection film or wraps: These can protect the existing paint and offer a new look, although they may not last as long as a full repaint.
