What is Paint Correction? How much does it cost?
Paint correction is basically just fixing the paintwork of a car by eliminating surface imperfections that dull, oxidize, or haze the surface. These imperfections are mainly swirl marks, fine scratches, bird dropping etching, acid rain etching, and buffer holograms. Most mobile car detailers in frisco can do this.
Variables in Paint Correction
Unlike Paint Protection Film (PPF), which has variables such as material, quality, location, and vehicle type, paint correction is even more complex. You need polishers, towels, and polishes, and the end results are not always visible post-application, making quality assessment more subjective.
Subjectivity in Paint Correction
The quality of paint corrections are heavily influenced by a few subjective factors:
- Inspection Conditions: The person inspecting the paint, lighting conditions, and specific characteristics of the car's paint and panels can affect the PERCIEVED quality.
- Correction Process: How much effort is put in and also the use of a paint gauge to ensure safe correction levels. Also some products can temporarily hide defects, revealing the true condition only after they wash off.
Type of Paint
Different types of paint respond differently to polishing. Hard paints are challenging to correct, while soft paints are difficult to perfect due to their tendency to scratch easily. The time and effort required for paint correction can vary significantly based on the paint type.
Vehicle Type/Size and Location
The cost of paint correction is influenced by the vehicle's type and size, as well as the geographical location. Larger vehicles and those with complex panels generally incur higher costs. In addition, location plays a role, with services in rural areas typically costing less than in larger cities. Some vehicles with extensive painted trim, such as those from Audi, BMW, and Range Rover, will also be more expensive.
Cost of Paint Correction
The cost of paint correction varies depending on the level of correction and the detailer's reputation. Typical costs include:
- 1-Stage Paint Correction: $500-800+, yielding 50-80% improvement.
- 2+ Stage Paint Correction: $1000-2000+, yielding 80-95%+ improvement.
These costs usually cover full preparation, detailing, and some form of wax or sealant protection. Ceramic coatings are typically an additional expense. It is important for customers to research what is included in the service and what results to expect.
