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Changing the color of your car can completely transform its look and feel. Whether you’re looking for a minor refresh or want a dramatic new color, there are a few options to consider when changing your car’s color. In this article, we’ll look at the requirements, processes, and costs involved in changing your car’s color so you can determine if it’s the right move for your vehicle.
Assessing Your Needs
Before deciding to change your car’s color, think about why you want to change it. Are you just bored of the current color and looking for something new? Do you want to change the color to match a new style or accessory? Or has the current paint job become faded and worn over time? Determining the reasons behind a color change will help guide your choices.
You’ll also want to decide how extreme of a change you want to make. Are you looking to go from a grey to a bold red? Or do you just want to change the tint slightly within the same color family, like from a dark blue to a lighter sky blue? More dramatic color changes will require more extensive work.
Paint Options
There are three main options when it comes to changing your car’s color:
Respraying – This involves sanding down the current paint job, priming the surface, and spraying on new paint. This is the most thorough option and allows you to make major color changes. However, it’s also the most expensive.
Vinyl Wrapping – With this process, your car is wrapped in a thin vinyl material featuring the new color. The vinyl adheres directly on top of the current paint. This allows for dramatic color shifts and creates a glossy, fresh look. Vinyl wraps can be removed later on. However, they are prone to chipping and wear over time.
Plasti Dip – Plasti dip involves spraying on layers of rubberized paint that adhere to the current surface. It often has a matte finish. Like vinyl wraps, plasti dip coatings can be peeled off down the road if desired. This is the most affordable application option. However, it may not last as long as the other methods.
Here’s a comparison of each option:
| Paint Method | Process | Cost | Durability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Respray | Sanding, priming, spraying | $$$$ | Most durable |
| Vinyl Wrap | Wrapping vinyl over paint | $$$ | Prone to wear |
| Plasti Dip | Spraying on rubberized paint | $ | Less durable |
As you can see, each option differs in terms of process, cost, and durability. Consider which factors are most important to your situation.
Respraying Process
If you opt for a professional respray, here is an overview of the process:
– The car will be washed thoroughly to remove any dust, dirt, or grime. This allows the new paint to adhere properly.
– Next, the car will be sanded down. This removes the clear coat and exposes the raw metal body panels underneath.
– Any rust spots or areas of damage will be addressed. Dents may need to be filled, and corroded areas may need to be treated or replaced.
– A primer will then be sprayed on to create a proper surface for the fresh paint. Primers help the paint stick to the car.
– The freshly primed vehicle is then ready for the new colored paint. Spray guns are used to evenly coat the car with 2-3 layers of colored paint. The spray guns and paint mixtures are carefully calibrated to match the desired hue.
– Once colored, a clear coat is applied on top for a smooth, glossy shine. The clear coat protects the colored paint underneath.
– After allowing adequate drying time, the freshly painted car is then polished by hand or machine. This removes any imperfections and debris from the painting process.
– Finally, reassembly takes place. Parts like lights, trim, and door handles get reattached. The car is then ready to hit the road sporting its vibrant new color!
The exact process may vary slightly depending on the shop. But in general, expect the respray process to be very thorough and take 3-5 days to complete.
Vinyl Wrapping Process
Here are the steps for professionally vinyl wrapping a car:
– The car is washed and dried completely so the vinyl can properly adhere.
– The installer will examine the car for any dents, rust spots, or damage that may interfere with the vinyl application. Some minor repairs may be needed.
– The vinyl material is carefully measured and cut to fit each section of the car’s body panels. Modern vinyl wraps often come in pre-sized kits.
– Small sections are sprayed with a soapy solution to allow the vinyl to slide into place. The installer will gently apply the material while smoothing out any bubbles or creases.
– A squeegee is used to help adhere the vinyl firmly to the car’s surface. Heat may be applied in some areas to help the vinyl bond.
– For a complete wrap, this process is repeated across all body panels including the hood, roof, trunk, doors, and bumpers.
– Trimming and adjustments are made around lights, chrome trim, and other protruding pieces. The vinyl is precisely cut to allow these components to remain visible.
– Finally, any air pockets or remaining bubbles are smoothed out. The edges get trimmed. And the entire wrap is inspected for a flawless application.
– The vinyl wrapped car is now ready to show off its new color. The material should last 5-7 years on average before needing replacement.
Skill is required to perfectly wrap all the intricate contours and angles of a car’s body. So it’s best to have a professional shop handle the vinyl installation.
Plasti Dip Application
Applying plasti dip to your car involves these key steps:
– Thoroughly clean the car so the plasti dip can adhere properly. Remove any waxes or dressings.
– Use painter’s tape to mask off any areas you don’t want coated, like chrome trim or windows.
– Shake the plasti dip can vigorously for several minutes to mix the pigments. You’ll be applying 4-6 coats.
– Spray on the first layer evenly across all panels, holding the can 6-8 inches away. Let it dry for 30 minutes.
– Apply additional coats similarly, allowing proper drying time between each application. The plasti dip will start to develops a rubberized texture.
– Check for any thin or uncoated spots and apply extra spray as needed. Multiple layers are key for durability.
– Let the plasti dip cure overnight before removing the painter’s tape or reinstalling any parts.
– For best results, avoid driving the car for 24 hours to allow the plasti dip to fully bond to the paint underneath.
– When done correctly, the plasti dip will have an even, flexible coating across your car’s entire exterior.
Plasti dip comes in a wide variety of colors and finishes. It can be easily sprayed on by amateurs with some DIY experience. Just be sure to use plenty of coats for long-lasting results.
Cost Comparison
The cost to change your car’s color varies drastically depending on the method used:
– A professional respray typically costs $3,000-$7,000. Higher-end paint jobs can be $10,000 or more. The number of coats, color used, and shop rates impact the overall price.
– Vinyl wrapping a car generally ranges from $2,000-$5,000. More complex wraps with intricate patterns or colors may cost upwards of $7,000.
– Plasti dip kits can be purchased for $20-$50 depending on the amount needed to coat a car. Doing it yourself saves on labor costs compared to the other methods.
Keep in mind that prices may fluctuate by region. And factors like the car’s make and model can influence cost as well. For example, painting a larger SUV typically costs more than a small sedan.
While upfront costs may be high, changing your car’s color with a respray or vinyl wrap drastically transforms its style and look for years to come. Plasti dip offers a temporary and affordable option for those wanting a short-term color change. Assess your budget, goals, and commitment to the new color when deciding on the best application method.
Maintenance
To keep your car’s fresh new paint job looking its best:
– Avoid automatic car washes, as the brushes can scratch the painted surface. Opt for hand washing instead.
– Wax your car every 3-6 months to protect the paint from sun damage and environmental contaminants.
– Inspect regularly for any stone chips or scratches in the paint and touch them up as needed.
– Store your car in a garage when possible to limit exposure to the elements.
– Remove bird droppings, tree sap, and other debris quickly to prevent staining.
– For vinyl wraps, avoid using waxes or polishes and instead clean the vinyl with car wrap specific soaps.
– Watch for the edges of vinyl wraps lifting up over time. Have a professional reapply the material if needed.
– Plasti dip may require reapplication every 1-2 years as the rubberized paint wears down.
By caring for the paint properly and addressing minor issues as soon as they occur, your car’s fresh coat will maintain its beautiful, vibrant look for many years.
Is It Worth It?
Changing your car’s color is a big decision that involves weighing several factors:
Cost – Resprays and wraps require a significant upfront investment. Plasti dip is more affordable but may not achieve the same high-quality results.
Durability – Resprays last the longest when well-maintained. Vinyl wraps and plasti dip tend to wear faster over time.
Color Options – Resprays allow limitless color choices. Vinyl wraps offer a wide range but can’t exactly match every hue. Plasti dip has a smaller color selection.
Resale Value – Vibrant, glossy resprays generally recoup more value when selling your car later on. Some buyers may dislike wraps.
Maintenance – Proper care is required to keep any new paint method looking its best long-term. Neglect shortens its lifespan.
Commitment – Resprays and wraps commit you to the color for years. Plasti dip allows you to switch colors fairly easily.
Overall, resprays deliver the most striking and durable results. Vinyl wraps offer more flexibility and easier removal. Plasti dip gives temporary color shifts on a budget. Evaluate which benefits matter most before moving forward. A fresh coat of paint can drastically transform your car’s look when applied correctly.
Conclusion
Changing your car’s color is an exciting way to give it a whole new look and style. With options like respraying, vinyl wrapping, and plasti dipping, you can get creative with your car’s exterior. Just be sure to assess the costs, processes, and maintenance needs of each method. A professional shop can handle the work with meticulous care to deliver eye-catching, showroom-quality results. With the right prep and application, your newly colored car will be a head-turning sight cruising down the highway.