Dear Terry, Does it matter what type of paint job one gets on his vehicle? Do independent paint shops provide a more quality service than franchise shops, such as MAACO? Finally, is there a difference in paint and the way it has to be applied to a vehicle? -- Kenny BDear Kenny, Today's cars have paint jobs that are more complex than in our parents' days. Most have a base coat of color that is overlaid with a clear coat, which gives it more shine. Some cars also have a tint coat that adds a deeper hue to the paint. So it's important to know that the paint shop you're using is capable of handling these surfaces. Also, another important factor is the prep work on the body before any paint is applied. A full factory-quality or better paint job on a modern car can cost $3,000 or more. So beware of offers to paint a car for $199. This week•9 red flags: Don't get hosed on flood car•Can the dealer change the finance rate after I take the car?•Are discount paint jobs as good as high-priced shops?•Are credit unions the best place to finance a car?If you have a question for Terry, e-mail him at Driving for Dollars. Save money on your car -- sign up for Bankrate's new weekend Car & Money newsletter advertisementRelated Links:7 best off-to-college carsNational auto loan averagesWhat changes auto loan rates?Related Articles:All new cars for 20105 steps to 'clunker' dealTake the 'cash back?'
Dear Terry, Does it matter what type of paint job one gets on his vehicle? Do independent paint shops provide a more quality service than franchise shops, such as MAACO? Finally, is there a difference in paint and the way it has to be applied to a vehicle? -- Kenny B
Dear Kenny, Today's cars have paint jobs that are more complex than in our parents' days. Most have a base coat of color that is overlaid with a clear coat, which gives it more shine. Some cars also have a tint coat that adds a deeper hue to the paint. So it's important to know that the paint shop you're using is capable of handling these surfaces. Also, another important factor is the prep work on the body before any paint is applied. A full factory-quality or better paint job on a modern car can cost $3,000 or more. So beware of offers to paint a car for $199.
If you have a question for Terry, e-mail him at Driving for Dollars. Save money on your car -- sign up for Bankrate's new weekend Car & Money newsletter
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