Is There a Difference Between Paint Jobs at 4S Stores and Outside Shops?
2 Answers
The difference between paint jobs at 4S stores and outside shops lies in the fact that technicians at 4S stores are more professional, the paint quality used is superior, and the paint booths at 4S stores are more advanced, with better working environments. Here are some precautions to take after a car paint job: 1. After painting, be cautious when washing the car. Avoid using anything other than soft water, including hot water, alkaline water, or water with high hardness, as these can damage the paint. If hard water is used to wash the car, it may leave marks on the paint surface after drying, affecting the appearance. 2. Do not expose the car to direct sunlight or wash it immediately after the engine cools down, as this can impact the paint surface and shorten its lifespan. 3. Avoid using high-pressure water streams to wash the car body. If there is stubborn dirt, first soak it with water and then rinse gently. Use a dispersed water stream for washing, as excessive water pressure can damage the paint. 4. Do not randomly use cleaning agents. For tough stains, choose appropriate cleaning agents. For oil stains, use a sponge lightly dipped in kerosene or gasoline to wipe gently, then apply polishing paste to restore shine. For biological residues like dead insects, first soak with soapy water, then clean with a damp sponge.
Last time I repaired my car door, I specifically compared the differences in painting between the two options. The price at the 4S shop was indeed much higher, with the same area costing more than double. However, 4S shops use genuine manufacturer paint, and their color matching is more precise. For a white car like mine, the color difference is barely noticeable. Their painting booths are dust-free environments, and even the temperature control in the baking room is more professional than outside shops. Most importantly, the after-sales service is guaranteed—minor scratches get free touch-ups, and any bubbling or peeling within three years is redone at no cost. Quick repair shops outside are cheaper, but my neighbor had his car painted at a roadside shop, and within six months, the paint showed cracks. They said it was because they skipped the primer step. In my opinion, for new cars or visible areas, going to a 4S shop is more reliable.
