Is the paint job outside the same as at a 4S shop?
3 Answers
There are differences between paint jobs at 4S shops and outside shops. The main differences are as follows: 1. 4S shops have color-matching formulas: The color matching at 4S shops may be closer to the original factory color, but whether at a 4S shop or an outside shop, it is impossible to achieve a perfect match with the factory paint due to the higher production processes involved in the car's original color matching. 2. The skill of the painter: Painting is a job greatly influenced by human skill. The quality of the paint job depends on the individual painter, whether at a 4S shop or an outside shop. In this regard, a well-reputed outside shop may not be inferior to a 4S shop. 3. Price difference: The price at 4S shops is significantly higher than at outside shops.
I've always been a car enthusiast, and after changing three or four cars, my personal experience has taught me that there's a notable difference between paint jobs at 4S shops and roadside garages. 4S shops use only original manufacturer-specified paint, with precise color formulas and standardized mixing processes, resulting in seamless color matching after spraying—especially for new cars, the effect is as good as factory-fresh. They have dedicated baking rooms with constant temperatures, ensuring the paint dries quickly, evenly, and durably, avoiding bubbles or premature aging. As for external shops, they're about a third cheaper, but their paint sources are mixed, possibly blended with low-quality pigments. Last time I went to a small shop, the paint turned yellow and started peeling within a year, requiring a respray. Durability is also worse: 4S shop paint includes an anti-rust layer, reducing body corrosion, whereas external shops may apply thinner coats, making the car prone to rust from rainwater infiltration, compromising overall safety. So, I recommend new car owners prioritize 4S shops—spending a few hundred extra is worth it for long-term maintenance.
I'm a money-saving expert, and getting exterior paintwork done outside can indeed save you some bucks. Last time my car door got scratched, the dealership quoted me 1800, while an external shop charged only 1000 to fix it. But the issue lies in inconsistent quality: their paint job ended up uneven, with visible patchy color differences upon closer inspection, and over time, the peeling paint looked even worse. Dealerships are pricier, but they use original equipment and techniques, offering free fixes within the warranty period; external shops provide no guarantees, making it hard to seek recourse if problems arise. Additionally, dealership paint meets environmental standards, with low VOC emissions reducing pollution; small external shops might overlook this, resulting in a pungent smell. Value for money depends on the situation: minor scratches can be handled by a reliable external shop, but for extensive damage, it’s safer to go to the dealership for better rustproofing and protection. Don’t forget to check the technician’s qualifications to minimize risks.
