The best place to get your car repainted depends on your budget, the desired quality, and the reason for the repaint. For a showroom-quality finish on a classic car, a high-end custom auto body shop is your only option. For repairing collision damage that will be covered by insurance, a dealership-affiliated or insurance-recommended body shop is the most straightforward path. If you're on a tight budget and the car is older, an independent body shop or a maaco franchise can provide a decent "10-foot" paint job, meaning it looks good from about 10 feet away.
When evaluating a shop, their paint booth is critical. A dedicated, climate-controlled downdraft booth is essential for a professional finish, as it filters dust and controls humidity. Ask about their process: proper repainting involves removing trim, handles, and often windows to avoid overspray and ensure clean lines. A shop that just masks everything off will deliver inferior results.
The cost varies dramatically. A full, high-quality respray can cost $5,000 to $10,000+, while a basic single-color job might be $1,000 to $3,000. The paint system itself—basecoat, mid-coat for metallics, and clearcoat—also affects the price and durability.
| Service Provider Type | Estimated Cost (Full Car) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|
| Dealership Body Shop | $4,000 - $8,000+ | Factory-match perfection, newer cars under warranty. | Highest cost, but uses OEM-specific paint and procedures. |
| High-End Custom Shop | $8,000 - $20,000+ | Concours-level restoration, custom colors. | Highest level of disassembly/prep; long wait times are common. |
| Independent Local Shop | $2,500 - $6,000 | Balancing quality and cost for daily drivers. | Get multiple quotes and inspect their previous work. |
| Chain Shop (e.g., Maaco) | $1,000 - $3,500 | Budget-conscious owners of older cars; resale prep. | Quality hinges on paying for premium prep work packages. |
| DIY (Your Garage) | $300 - $1,000 | Hobbyists willing to accept risk for a learning experience. | Requires significant equipment investment (sprayer, compressor, booth rental). |
Ultimately, your choice should be guided by the car's value and your expectations. Always get at least three detailed written estimates and, most importantly, visit the shop to see examples of their completed work in person.
