how much is a new paint job on a car

[MacAustin]

A new paint job for a car typically costs between $1,000 and $8,000+, with the final price heavily dependent on the quality of the paint, the extent of prep work needed, and the shop's labor rates. A basic, single-color respray can be as low as $500-$1,000, while a show-quality, multi-layer job with a ceramic coating can exceed $10,000.

The primary cost drivers are paint quality and labor. Here’s a breakdown of what to expect:

Service Type	Average Cost Range	Key Details
Economy/Spot Repair	$500 - $1,000	Uses single-stage paint; blends into existing panels; may not perfectly match color long-term.
Standard Full Respray	$1,500 - $3,500	Uses base-clear coat system; proper surface prep (sanding, minor rust/dent repair); good for a refreshed look.
High-Quality Full Respray	$3,000 - $5,000+	Extensive body prep (door jams, engine bay); higher-grade paint (e.g., urethane); superior finish and durability.
Show-Quality/Custom	$5,000 - $10,000+	Meticulous hand-sanding; multiple clear coats; custom colors/effects; warrantied workmanship.

Labor and prep work are where costs accumulate. A shop must remove trim, sand the entire body, and repair any rust or dents before a drop of paint is sprayed. This "prep" stage can account for 60-70% of the total bill. If you skip this, the new paint will fail quickly. The type of paint also matters. Basic acrylic enamel is affordable but less durable than modern urethane-based base/clear coat systems, which offer better UV protection and a deeper gloss.

Finally, the shop type influences price. A dealership's body shop is often the most expensive. Independent auto body shops offer a balance of quality and value. For a basic job, a franchise like Maaco might be a cost-effective option, but be sure to understand exactly what prep work is included in their quoted price.

[Karl]

From my experience, you get what you pay for. I bought a cheap $800 paint job once, and it started peeling in a year. If you just need a decent, uniform color to spruce up an older car, budget $2,000 to $3,500 at a reputable independent shop. That’ll cover a proper sanding and a modern base-clear coat that lasts. Don't chase the lowest quote; ask exactly what prep work is included.

[CoreyFitz]

It's a spectrum. A simple respray to cover fading on a sedan might be $2,500. But for a full restoration on a classic car where we color-sand between coats and spray the door jambs, you're easily looking at $7,000 to $9,000. The difference is in the details: the quality of the materials and the countless hours of prep labor. A true, durable, and beautiful finish requires an investment.

[Sabrina]

Check with your insurance first. If the paint damage is from an accident or vandalism, your comprehensive coverage might handle it, minus your deductible. For out-of-pocket costs, expect to pay around $3,000 for a quality job on a mid-size car. Get three written estimates. The cheap quotes often skip necessary steps like rust treatment, which leads to bigger problems down the road. It's a investment in your car's value and longevity.