Here’s the full value of protecting your vehicle’s paint
Adding automotive paint protection to your car isn’t cheap, so it’s no surprise you might wonder whether it’s really worth the money—especially if dealerships are bombarding you with add-ons and upgrades.
Anytime you buy a new or used car from a dealer, you’ll see a menu of options that will increase the cost of your vehicle. You’ve already made a pricey decision (the car), and now you have to decide whether you want roadside assistance, tire protection, gap coverage, and paint protection.
To decide if auto paint protection is worth the price, let’s look at some facts:
- Your car has paint.
- The paint will be exposed to the elements.
- Paint can fade, lose its shine, or erode over time.
- Your car’s appearance ultimately affects its value, including how you perceive its value and how you feel when driving it.
With these in mind, let’s look at how you can know without a doubt whether you should spring for professional paint protection.
What Is Paint Protection?
Cilajet paint protection is a ceramic clear coating that includes graphene, the world’s strongest material. It’s applied and cured by professionals to ensure a smooth, even, consistent layer over a vehicle’s paint.
Read more about auto paint protection on the Cilajet blog, including the science behind ceramic coatings and the benefits of ceramic paint protection.
Is Paint Protection Worth It, and What ROI Should You Expect?
Calculating the ROI of paint protection can be tricky. It’s not like assessing the ROI of a stock purchase, in which you can track dollar for dollar over time and figure out whether you made a savvy decision.
If you want to keep your vehicle looking pristine, you will either need to get a new paint job at some point or play defense by getting a protective coating.
Not everyone will have the same ROI for paint protection because not everyone buys the same vehicle. But you can get a rough estimate based on how much paint protection costs, your vehicle’s value and typical depreciation, along with other factors.
Typical paint protection on a vehicle varies in price based on vehicle size, make, and model. Overall, the cost ranges from a few hundred to under $2000.
The typical cost of a new paint job also depends on your car and the quality of the paint job:
- For a basic or mid-tier job, you’re looking at between $1,000 and $2,500.
- For a high-quality paint job or showroom finish, expect to pay between $5,000 and $20,000.
The cost of paint protection doesn’t begin to amount to the cost of a new paint job.
Questions That Will Help You Determine Your ROI
Regardless of your vehicle make and model, a protective clear coating costs a fraction of what you’d pay for a full paint job. You’re paying money upfront, but saving money across the life of your car.
To figure out the full ROI, let these questions guide you.
How long will you keep your vehicle?
If you plan to keep your brand-new vehicle for a year or two and then upgrade, there’s probably not much ROI in paint protection, unless you’re leasing your car. Fresh paint isn’t likely to lose its shine or corrode due to exposure to the elements that quickly, but if you’re leasing, every year keeping your car immaculate counts.
However, if you’re buying a used vehicle or will keep your vehicle for many years, paint protection makes financial sense. For used cars, consider there’s already been some wear and tear on the paint. Your goal should be to maintain its appearance and prevent any additional degradation.
How harsh are the environments where you live?
Salt and sand, icy roads, windy cities, construction zones—your car drives through it all. Consider whether your vehicle will be exposed to harsh elements and how often.
This is especially important if you park outside. UV rays, bird droppings, dirty rain, tree sap, and tons of other hazards can affect how your car looks in the next year or five years. Protective coatings can help to prevent damage from these hazards, keeping your ride looking new for longer.
How important is the look of your vehicle?
If keeping your vehicle in showroom-ready condition is a top priority, auto paint protection is key in reaching your goal. A smooth coating fills in scratches and prevents dirt and grime from settling in them. It preserves the car’s shine, plus it makes it easier to wash away dirt and debris.
How expensive is the vehicle?
You wouldn’t spend $80K on a vehicle and neglect its appearance, right? People have different expectations of high-end luxury cars compared to common vehicles. Whether you’re buying a car or selling your precious ride, how the vehicle looks sets the tone.
A vehicle that looks like it’s been well cared for may fetch a higher price. It’s also a hallmark of meticulous ownership. If you’re buying used, a car’s appearance can make it feel like a brand new ride. And if you’re selling, buyers can trust you’ve taken good care of the car, ensuring it still has plenty of miles to go.
Bottom Line: Auto Paint Protection Is Worth the Money
Calculating the ROI of paint protection can be black and white: It’s comparing the cost of paint protection vs. the cost of new paint.
It’s like the same way we think about insurance: you need it before you realize how necessary it is, and you don’t want to make the call too late.. And like insurance, you can spread your payment over multiple months to help make it more affordable.
Seeing is believing, and a good-looking exterior can enhance a vehicle’s perceived value. You’ll feel the value right away as you drive, and you’ll see the payoff in your wallet later.