[Car Painting] Full Car vs. Partial Car Painting: Differences, Costs, and Pros & Cons of Oven-Baking Paint

When a vehicle is on the road, its exterior is inevitably subject to various degrees of damage—be it scratches from road debris or larger areas of damage caused by collisions. Car painting is a common solution to restore the vehicle's appearance. But what are the steps involved? What’s the difference between full car painting and partial car painting? How are costs determined? Let Kwiksure share essential information you need to know about car painting.

Why is Car Painting Necessary?

When the car’s paint is damaged, minor issues may only affect appearance, but if scratches are deep enough to expose the metal underneath, rusting can occur, leading to potentially serious consequences. Additionally, long-term exposure to sunlight and rain can cause the paint to lose its luster. If you’re looking to restore your car’s appearance or change its color, car painting is an option to consider.

How is the Cost of Car Painting Calculated?

Car painting costs are typically calculated based on “panels,” such as one car door or one fender. Regardless of whether it’s a few scratches or a larger area, the price is usually determined per panel. However, if the vehicle has severe dents, additional repair work is required before painting, which increases costs.

What’s the Difference Between Full Car Painting and Partial Car Painting?

Full car painting and partial car painting differ not only in their processes but also in their costs. How do you decide which one is suitable for your situation? Below is a comparison:

Car Painting Process

Since car painting involves professional skills and equipment, most car owners opt to have it done at a garage. However, it’s good to understand the basic steps:

1. Clean the area to be painted.
2. Repair the damaged area by sanding, filling, and smoothing it to prepare for painting.
3. Prepare the paint color (for partial painting, the color must match the original).
4. Apply primer.
5. Spray the paint—this step may need to be repeated several times for the best results.
6. Once the paint dries naturally, apply a clear coat or lacquer for a glossy finish.
7. Polish and clean the surface after it has dried completely.

Oven-Baking Paint vs. Regular Painting

Some larger garages have dedicated oven-baking rooms where the environment is dust-free, preventing particles from sticking to the paint. This ensures a smoother, glossier finish. Oven-baking rooms can also regulate temperature, allowing the paint to dry at a fixed temperature, which improves durability compared to regular outdoor painting.

For partial oven-baking, the damaged car part must be completely removed, which requires more time and labor. As a result, the cost is higher than regular painting.

Tips for Car Painting

• For full car painting, confirm with the garage whether it includes areas such as door frames. If not, you may notice a mismatch of new and old colors when opening the doors.
• If the car is damaged, the area must first undergo repairs such as debris removal, filling, and sanding. These steps take time, so clarify the cost details in advance.
• For minor damage, DIY enthusiasts should ensure the area is cleaned thoroughly before painting. Conduct the process in a dust-free environment and use a degreaser beforehand to remove tar, silicone, and other contaminants for a smoother finish.