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All you need to know about the cost of bodywork repairs

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Car paintwork prices: everything you need to know about the cost of car bodywork repairs :

How much does a full paint job cost?

Are you wondering how much a full paint job on your car will cost? Whether you own a city car, an SUV or a top-of-the-range vehicle, knowing the budget you need is essential before contacting a professional body repairer.

The price of a complete paint job can vary depending on the size of your car, the condition of the bodywork, the type of finish and the time required:

  • Compact city car: between €1,200 and €2,500
  • SUV or light commercial vehicle: between €2,500 and €4,000
  • Top-of-the-range car: between €4,000 and €5,000
  • Customised or very high-end paintwork: up to €10,000

Where can I have my car body repainted?

If you want to have your car's paintwork redone, there are several options available to you, depending on your budget and the result you want.

Specialist garages and body shops remain the most reliable solution for a complete paint job, because they are experienced professionals:

  • Approved body repairers: they guarantee quality work, adapted to your model of car, with a uniform, long-lasting finish.
  • Multi-make workshops: some generalist garages offer complete paint packages for all types of vehicle
  • Dealers: for new or recent cars, they use the manufacturer's exact colours

How much does it cost to paint a door?

The cost of painting a car door varies according to a number of criteria, including the type of vehicle, the condition of the bodywork and the type of paint used. Generally speaking, the cost of a door paint job is as follows:

  • Standard paint (solid colour): between €150 and €300 per door
  • Metallic or pearlescent paint: between €200 and €600 per door
  • Top-of-the-range or personalised Paint: up to €800 or more, depending on the complexity of the colour and finish.

These prices generally include preparation of the surface, application of the paint and Clearcoat, and working time. However, if the door has damage such as dents or deep scratches, additional charges may apply for the necessary repairs.

To sum up:

  • The type of paint: such as metallic or pearlescent paints are generally more expensive due to their finish and durability.
  • The door stage: prior repairs, such as dent removal or puttying, can increase the price.

When do you need to repaint your car?

Repainting a car is not just a question of aesthetics. In some cases, it's a real necessity to protect the bodywork, maintain the vehicle's value and extend its life.

1. When body paint is damaged :

  • Deep scratches: these reveal the Primer or the metal and encourage rusting.
  • Stone chips: common on the bonnet and front bumper
  • Chipping or blistering: signs that the paint no longer adheres properly to the bodywork.
  • In these cases, repainting will protect the metal and prevent corrosion.

2. After an accident or bodywork repair:

  • Repaired dents and bumps often require repainting to restore the original appearance.
  • Replaced door or bumper: a new part needs to be painted to match the colour of the rest of the vehicle.
  • Paint is essential here to even out the colour and hide the repairs.

3. When colour fades :

  • UV oxidation: some paints (particularly red and dark) fade in the sun.
  • Natural ageing: over time, the Clearcoat loses its shine and the paint becomes matt.
  • Repainting gives the car a new lease of life and a more polished appearance.

4. In the event of rust :

  • Appearance of rust spots: often on the wings, rocker panels or wheel arches
  • Advanced corrosion: if left untreated, it will weaken the bodywork.
  • A full coat of paint combined with an anti-corrosion treatment will stop the rust from progressing any further.

5. To personalise or change the appearance of your vehicle

  • Change of colour to give the car a new look
  • Special paint (metallic, pearlescent, matt, chameleon) recommended for a unique look
  • Partial or total flocking for PROFESSIONAL USE ONLY (logo, branding)
  • Please note: if you change the colour of your vehicle, you must update the vehicle registration document.

6. To increase the value of your vehicle:

  • Before resale: a new paintwork finish can increase the value of your vehicle and attract more buyers.
  • Collector vehicles: a new paint job restores prestige and authenticity

In conclusion, it's essential to repaint your car:

  • When the paintwork is damaged (scratches, chips, blisters)
  • After a bodywork renovation
  • When the colour has lost its shine
  • In the event of rust
  • To personalise your car or increase its resale value

How do I choose the right paint to repaint my bodywork?

There's more to repainting your car than choosing a colour. The type of paint, the finish, the durability and the substrate all play a crucial role in achieving an attractive, long-lasting result.

1. Identifying the type of car paint :

There are several types of body paint:

  • Solvent-based paint (solvent): generally used by many bodywork specialists, gives a smooth, glossy finish and is more resistant to scratches and weathering.
  • Water-based paint (water-soluble): more environmentally friendly, dries more quickly and is often used for Touch ups and modern full body paints.
  • Special-effect paint :
    • Metallic: contains metal particles, for a shiny, sparkling effect
    • Pearl: iridescent effect, very aesthetic but more expensive
    • Chameleon / custom: changes colour depending on the angle, very high-end

2. Choosing the right finish :

The finish of your Paint influences the final result:

  • Gloss: smooth, highly reflective appearance, easy to clean
  • Matt: modern trend, less sensitive to reflections but more fragile to scratches
  • Satin/semi-gloss: a compromise between matt and gloss.

3. Take colour into account :

  • Original colour: to respect the manufacturer's tint and facilitate resale
  • Change of colour: requires a declaration on the vehicle registration document and may involve an additional cost
  • Custom colour: more expensive and often requires a specialist bodywork specialist.

4. Check compatibility with the bodywork:

  • Materials: steel, aluminium, Plastic (bumpers) or Fiberglass requiring suitable primers and paints
  • Surface Preparation: Sanding, Putty and Primer are essential to ensure good adhesion.

5. Consider durability and maintenance :

  • UV resistance: some paints lose their lustre quickly in sunlight
  • Chemical resistance: Clearcoat to protect against washing products and pollution offers essential resistance
  • Cleaning: some finishes (matt or pearlescent) require special cleaning products.

What equipment do I need to repaint my car?

Repainting your car yourself requires preparation, method and, above all, the right equipment. Here is a complete list of the tools and products you need to achieve a professional finish:

1. Safety equipment :

2. Bodywork preparation equipment :

The quality of the result depends 80% on the Preparation:

3. Paint products :

Depending on the type of finish chosen:

  • Primer: promotes paint adhesion
  • Coloured base: the paint itself, plain metallic or pearlescent.
  • Clearcoat: protects the paint and gives the finish (gloss, satin or matt)
  • Hardener to use when mixing
  • Thinner : to adjust the viscosity of the paint and clean the equipment

4. Application equipment :

5. Accessories and consumables :

6. Professional equipment :

  • Paint booth: to avoid dust and, above all, to optimise drying
  • Electric polishing machine and polishing paste for polishing the surface to a perfect shine after drying
  • Infrared drying lamp to speed up paint hardening

When embarking on a small car renovation project, it's important to follow each step carefully. Even on a small surface, the technique used can make all the difference between an average result and the best possible finish.

A simple tip is to start by removing any blemishes on the bodywork before applying the paint: sanding, degreasing and puttying are key factors in a successful job. Although this may seem expensive at first, the advantage is a long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing result that will cost less to touch up in the long run.

For a professional result, there are simple methods and advanced techniques to suit every situation. Even a small renovation can achieve a spectacular result if the correct process is followed and the most appropriate means of application chosen.

There are several solutions to suit different budgets and skills. Careful paint application, accompanied by a good professional service or follow-up, can guarantee a uniform and brilliant result. Some workshops include a step-by-step guide to make the job easier. For a successful project, it's important to understand what's included in the service: surface preparation, paint, Clearcoat and sometimes even accessories. The costs included in the quotation mean there are no surprises and you can plan your budget more effectively.

Discover our car paint brands for your bodywork repairs:

Carross offers the leading brands of car paint and non paint consumables. Here's a short summary of the paint brands, their advantages and price ranges:

1. Cromax / PPG / Standox / Sikkens / Glasurit :

  • Type: professional two-coat paints (base + Clearcoat)
  • Use: professional body repairers
  • Approximate price: around €100 to €200 per litre for the base paint
  • Characteristics: high durability, professional finish, wide range of tints

2. Lesonal / RM / MaxMeyer / Lechler / Nexa Autocolor :

  • Type: two-coat professional paints
  • Use: professional body repairers
  • Approximate price: around €80 to €150 per litre for the base paint
  • Characteristics: good value for money, professional finish

3. Ready to use colour Carross :

  • Type: professional paints and paint kits
  • Use: professional bodybuilders
  • Approximate price: between €50 and €100
  • Features: wide choice of professional brands, fast delivery