What is the average cost of a full paint job on a car?
On the low end, a basic one-color repaint can cost roughly $1,000 to $3,000, while a full, professional basecoat/clearcoat job with proper prep typically falls in the $3,000 to $6,000 range. For higher-quality finishes or extensive bodywork, prices commonly run from $6,000 to $12,000, and showroom-grade or custom work can exceed $12,000, sometimes reaching $20,000 or more. Regional differences and the shop’s experience significantly influence the final price.
What factors influence the price?
Pricing for a full car repaint is driven by several interconnected factors. The cost reflects not only the paint itself but also the level of prep, the type of finish, and the labor required. Below are the key elements that most often move the total higher or lower.
Paint type and finish
Single-stage enamel or basic urethane finishes tend to be more affordable, while basecoat/clearcoat systems with multiple layers, higher-gloss clear finishes, and specialty effects (metallics, pearls, candy colors) add cost due to materials and application steps.
Prep work and body repairs
Damage, rust, dents, and paint removal require sanding, filler, primer, and rust treatment. Vehicles in need of extensive bodywork or corrosion repair will push the price higher, sometimes substantially.
Labor, shop location, and warranty
Labor rates vary by region and by the shop’s reputation. Some shops offer warranties on adhesion, color matching, and durability, which can influence pricing and perceived value.
Typical price ranges
Below is a general breakdown of common price bands you’ll encounter when shopping for a full exterior repaint. These ranges assume standard prep and a typical color finish, not partial touch-ups or extensive restoration.
- Budget/basic: $1,000–$3,000 for a single-stage enamel or basic urethane with minimal prep.
- Mid-range: $3,000–$6,000 for a standard basecoat/clearcoat finish with thorough masking and prep.
- Premium: $6,000–$12,000 for higher-quality finishes, better paint systems, and more extensive prep work.
- Showroom/custom: $12,000–$20,000+ for top-tier showroom results, extensive bodywork, and specialty finishes.
Prices vary by region and shop, and color changes or heavy bodywork can push totals beyond these bands.
What’s included in a full paint job?
A comprehensive paint job covers more than spraying color. It encompasses prep, masking, priming, painting, and finishing to ensure durability and a premium look. The typical workflow includes the following steps.
- Vehicle assessment and scope of work agreement
- Bodywork repair, dent removal, rust treatment, and filler as needed
- Sanding, cleaning, and surface preparation
- Primer application and sealing
- Color coat application and multiple clear coats
- Wet sanding, polishing, and final detailing
- Quality check and optional warranty discussion
Exact steps and emphasis can vary by shop and project, particularly if color changes or specialty finishes are requested.
Tips for getting a fair price
To maximize value when shopping for a full paint job, consider these strategies and questions for every bid.
- Ask for a written scope of work with line-itemed costs to clearly compare what’s included.
- Request color-match panels or swatches and check shop references or completed-project photos.
- Compare different paint systems (single-stage vs. basecoat/clearcoat) and the associated durability.
- Inquire about warranties on paint adhesion, fading, and chipping.
If you’re considering a color change or specialty finishes, factor in the added prep and materials required, which typically raises the price.
Regional differences and selecting a shop
Pricing can vary widely by geography. Urban areas and specialty shops often command higher rates, while local body shops may offer more competitive pricing. When evaluating quotes, focus on the shop’s reputation, material quality, and warranty terms in addition to the bottom line.
Color change vs. color-matching repairs
Switching to a new color or performing extensive color matching can add to the cost due to additional masking, more coats, and extensive surface preparation. A more modest color repair within the same color family is typically less expensive.
Summary: For most drivers seeking a durable, aesthetically pleasing full exterior repaint, mid-range budgets typically fall between $3,000 and $6,000, with higher-quality finishes or considerable bodywork pushing toward $12,000 or more. Always secure a detailed estimate, weigh the paint system and finish you want, and consider regional pricing and shop reputation to determine the best value.
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.
Is a full car paint job worth it?
When determining whether it'll be worth repainting your car, consider the value of your vehicle vs. the cost of the paint job. If the cost of the repaint is worth over 30% of your car's value, you need to seriously consider if it makes sense.
Is it cheaper to repaint or wrap a car?
It is generally cheaper to wrap a car than to repaint it, especially for a new color. While a wrap typically costs between $1,000 and $5,000, a high-quality paint job can range from several thousand to over $20,000, depending on the vehicle and complexity of the work.
Wrapping a car
- Initial Cost: Generally lower than painting. DIY options for basic wraps can be even cheaper.
- Time: The process is significantly faster, typically taking just a few business days compared to the weeks or months a paint job can take.
- Protection: Wraps protect the original paint from scratches, sun damage, and minor scuffs.
- Customization: Offers a wide variety of colors and design options that are not easily achievable with paint.
- Reversibility: Can be removed without damaging the original paint underneath, making it easy to change the look again later.
Painting a car
- Initial Cost: Typically higher due to labor, materials, and prep work.
- Time: The process is much longer, often requiring several weeks or even months at a body shop.
- Protection: A new paint job can offer a deep, glossy finish, but is more susceptible to chips, scratches, and fading over time.
- Maintenance: Requires more upkeep, including waxing and potential touch-ups for any scratches or damage.
- Value: Can increase a vehicle's long-term value, especially if the underlying paint is in poor condition and the new paint job is high-quality.
Which should you choose?
- Choose wrapping if: Your priority is a lower upfront cost, a faster process, the ability to change colors frequently, or a need to protect the original paint.
- Choose painting if: You want a deep, factory-like gloss, you plan to keep the car long-term, and you are prepared for a higher upfront cost and longer downtime.
How much should a good paint job cost on a car?
Quality and Paint Preferences A single-coat synthetic enamel paint job can be had for as little as $300. Prices can range up to around $1000 for this type of paintwork. A higher quality paint job that includes bodywork, such as dent/rust/damage repair, can cost as much as $3500.
