How much does it cost to paint a 4 door car?
Typical costs range from about $1,500 to $10,000 or more, depending on paint type, prep work, and the shop. For a standard solid color with decent prep, budget around $1,500–$3,000; for a premium basecoat/clearcoat or color change, expect roughly $3,000–$8,000; show-quality finishes can exceed $10,000.
Pricing ranges by finish and preparation
Costs are traditionally grouped by the level of finish and the amount of preparation the car requires. The ranges below reflect what a four‑door car owner might typically encounter across common shops.
- Basic repaint (solid color, limited prep): about $1,000 to $3,000
- Standard basecoat/clearcoat (solid color, good prep): about $2,500 to $5,500
- Premium basecoat/clearcoat or color-change (metallics, pearls, or multi-stage matching): about $3,500 to $8,000
- Show-quality or specialty finishes (custom colors, candy colors, extensive effects): about $5,000 to $15,000 or more
Prices vary by region, shop reputation, and the amount of prep or bodywork required. Always compare multiple quotes and ask for a detailed breakdown of materials and labor.
What factors influence the price?
Several variables can push a repaint price up or down. Knowing them helps you plan and compare offers more accurately.
- Paint type and finish: single-stage, basecoat/clearcoat, metallic or pearlescent finishes, and specialty effects add cost.
- Body prep and repairs: dents, rust, peeling clear coat, and panel replacements increase labor and materials.
- Color changes and color matching: changing from one color to another or matching jambs and inner panels takes time and precision.
- Labor rates and location: urban shops or high-cost regions typically charge more per hour or per job.
- Masking and disassembly: removing trim, gutters, glass, and lights adds to duration and complexity.
- Optional extras: ceramic coatings, paint protection films, or enhanced polishing can raise the final price.
In practice, a shop will itemize these elements in a written estimate. The final price reflects both the cost of materials and the labor hours required to achieve the desired finish.
What’s typically included in a repaint estimate
Understanding what’s included helps you evaluate quotes and avoid surprises. The following steps are commonly part of a professional repaint estimate, with potential add-ons clearly listed.
- Surface preparation, including sanding, dent repair, rust treatment, and priming as needed.
- Sealing and primer coats to promote adhesion and durability.
- Paint application (basecoat/clearcoat or single-stage), color matching, and gloss control.
- Masking, protection of trim, glass, and interior surfaces; sometimes door jambs and engine bays are included.
- Reassembly and final detailing, including buffing, polishing, and any required reinstallation of trim.
- Optional coatings or services (ceramic coating, paint protection film, additional color matching) priced separately.
Before agreeing to a project, confirm which items are included, what constitutes “extensive body work,” and whether interior or engine bay areas will be painted or masked.
Summary
Painting a four-door car is a substantial investment that hinges on finish quality, prep work, and location. In broad terms, expect roughly $1,500–$3,000 for a basic solid-color job, $3,000–$8,000 for a standard basecoat/clearcoat with good prep, and $5,000–$15,000 or more for premium, color-change, or show-quality finishes. Always obtain a detailed, written estimate that breaks down materials, labor, and any extras, and compare multiple shops to gauge value and expected results. With careful planning, you can balance price against durability and appearance to fit your needs.
