How to Spring for a New Paint Job

No matter where you live, acid rain, UV rays, tree sap, falling leaves and bird droppings can all conspire to make your car look old, dull and pitted. A paint job runs from $200 to $4,000 and enhances the value of a car as it protects against rust and corrosion.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Written estimates
• Written estimates
• Paint company certification
• Warranties
• Matching color
• Care instructions

1. Compare written estimates from several auto-body shops. Before you sign on the dotted line, inquire if the auto-body technicians have been certified by the paint company to apply its paint, and if paint and workmanship warranties exist.
2. Choose a color, then decide from single-stage finish to multiple layers (primer, base, clear/tint and final coat). More layers result in a deeper shine, a more durable paint job--and a larger bill.
3. Save money by repainting your car the same color, so sills and internal frame parts (such as the trunk) don't have to be repainted to match. Special paint and designs add to the price.
4. Ask your body shop exactly how to care for and clean your new finish, as some paint jobs take weeks to cure. During that time, stay away from commercial car washes and don't use an ice scraper or spill gasoline on the finish.

Tips & Warnings

• Some car experts swear by a good wax job; some say new paints don't need wax. Ask your technician what's best for your paint job.
• Unless your car's paint is damaged or is an old acrylic lacquer finish, you don't generally need to strip old paint before repainting.