What’s the Cost To Repaint a Car Roof?

Because your car roof is exposed to sunlight the most, the coating is usually the first to start peeling, and consequently, the roof will need to be repainted. But what does it cost to repaint your car roof?
Firstly, the cost starts with the type of paint you want to apply, then depends on the person doing the job. The average cost sits around $400 to $2,000, depending on different factors.
Our expert editors have been right there with you. We’ve had to figure out the ins and outs of getting our car roof repainted.
So, we’ve pooled our experiences to help you not only get an idea of the cost of repainting a car roof but also what all goes into the pricing and how to save money.
Key Takeaways
Cost of Painting a Car Roof Video
How Much Does Car Roof Paint Cost?
When it comes to repainting your vehicle, there are several pricing factors you need to know about before getting a quote. The job isn’t as simple as painting a bedroom. We’ve pulled together some areas to consider for your car repaint.
- Type of Paint: Splurging on premium paint or opting for a custom color? Higher quality or specialty hues can bump up the price. It’s all about balancing the wow factor with your budget.
- Labor Costs: The expertise behind the brush matters. Costs can vary depending on the skill level of the technicians and the shop’s location. A reputable painter in a bustling city might cost a bit more, but the peace of mind could be worth it.
- Preparation Work: Getting that surface smooth and ready is key. The amount of prep, like sanding and priming, can influence the final tab. More prep often means a pricier paint job, but it’s the foundation of a stellar finish.
- Car Model: Got a unique ride? Some models might need more detailed work or specific paint types, adding to the cost. It’s the price of standing out in a crowd.
- Extent of Damage: More than a few scratches? Extensive damage or rust can require extra work before the new paint can take the stage, leading to a higher bill.
- Painting Method: Going the DIY route or opting for professional spray painting affects the cost. While DIY can save some cash, professional work usually offers that sleek, even coat we all love.
- Shop Reputation: A shop known for its flawless finishes might charge a premium, but think of it as investing in artistry and assurance. It’s about finding that sweet spot between cost and confidence in the work.
Based on these factors, car roof paint costs around $400 and could go up to $2,000 or even more. A huge part of the cost is for the paint itself; car paints cost from $100 to $1,000, depending on the type and quality. To get the best results, take your car to a body shop to paint it there.
If you later decide to paint the rest of the car simultaneously, you should be budgeting from $1,000 to $3,000, depending on the same factors as explained above. Body shops charge more for paint jobs than typical workshops offering the same service.
Paint Chips | |
Roof Repaint | |
Whole Car Respray | |
Hood Repaint | |
Panel Painting | |
Bumper Repaint | |
Scratches |
Can You Save on Car Roof Repaint?
For sure, you can always save on auto services and repairs. Check out these quick tips to help you save on repainting your car’s roof.
- Compare Quotes: Don’t settle for the first quote. Shop around and get estimates from several body shops. This can significantly vary, so comparing can lead to substantial savings.
- Purchase Your Own Paint: Sometimes, body shops mark up the paint cost. By purchasing your own paint, you can shop for the best deals and quality, potentially saving you a decent chunk of change.
- DIY Painting: If you’re handy and have access to the necessary tools, consider doing the job yourself. There are plenty of tutorials available that can guide you through the process, saving labor costs.
- Partial Repaint: Instead of repainting the entire roof, focus only on areas that need attention. This targeted approach can drastically reduce costs while still refreshing your car’s appearance.
- Seasonal Deals: Keep an eye out for special deals or promotions. Many shops offer discounts during their off-seasons to attract more business, which can be a perfect opportunity for savings.
Should You Paint Only the Rooftop?
It is dependent on the situation at hand and your budget. Yes, you can paint only a car’s rooftop while leaving out the rest of the body.
At the same time, you can paint the body at a go (if you have the budget). But then, if it’s only the rooftop with paint defaults, you can simply spray it and let the other body sides remain the same.
Painting only the rooftop will save you some cost and time, too. Of course, you’d need the same paint as the rest of the car’s body – unless you want to have two different colors on the car (for personal reasons). Notwithstanding, if the paint on the rest of the car’s body is fading out, too, you may want to repaint the entire car.