How many years can a full-body paint job from a 4S store last?

[Paul]

A full-body paint job from a 4S store, if using imported paint with standard application, can last over a decade. If domestic paint is used with good workmanship, it may last around six to seven years. However, with poor workmanship or low-quality materials, the paint could crack within one or two years. The longevity of a 4S store paint job depends on the quality of both the paint and the application. The lifespan of a repaint is generally shorter than the original factory paint. The quality of the repaint largely depends on paint mixing, the painting environment, and the technician's skill level. Complex paint jobs require color codes and computer analysis for mixing, while simpler ones involve adding colorants for comparison. Although the mixed paint won't perfectly match the original factory paint, the color difference is usually indistinguishable to the naked eye. Precautions after vehicle repainting: Avoid using high-pressure water jets to wash the car, as the hardness of repainted surfaces is lower than factory paint, and excessive water pressure can damage the finish. Be cautious with cleaning agents; vehicles inevitably accumulate tar, oil stains, and insect residues during driving, which require careful handling. Check for color consistency with the original paint—while a 100% match is impossible, the repaint should appear nearly identical under sunlight, as color perception is highly light-dependent. Inspect the paint's smoothness: a proper finish should be free of pitting, impurities, or runs.