Have you ever seen a car in a color you like and wished it was yours? As the old saying goes, change is the only constant thing in this world. And if that’s the case, can you change the color of your car or van?
With the right preparation and approach, you can.
In this article, we’ll discuss the factors you should consider, different types of color changes, and the pros and cons of painting your car or van. We’ll also explore some alternatives to painting your vehicle.
Can You Change the Color of Your Car or Van?
It is not necessarily illegal to change the color of your vehicle. However, laws vary by state, so research your state’s regulations before you commit to this project.
Generally, insurance companies require that you alert them of any changes you make to your car, and this includes color changes. If you fail to do this, you may face a hefty fee or even a denied claim should you need to file one.
In some states, you may need to provide proof of your paint job during vehicle registration, and the paint must match the original color. You may also be required to avoid fluorescent colors. Moreover, some states may require that you have your paint job inspected for approval.
What To Consider Beforehand
There are many reasons why someone might want to change the color of their vehicle. Maybe you want to give your car a unique look with a custom paint job, or perhaps you just want to update the color.
Whatever the reason, it is important to consider all of the factors before making this decision. It is also important to make sure you are using a high-quality paint shop that is experienced in painting cars so that you can get the best possible finish.
Additionally, you may need to repair any paint damage before you begin painting, which could cost you hundreds of dollars.
If painting your car isn’t an option, you could opt for a vinyl wrap or a vinyl film instead. Both of these options are much cheaper than a full paint job and can give your car a unique and eye-catching look.
How To Change Your Car Color
Changing the exterior color of your vehicle can be a daunting task. The process can be expensive and time-consuming, so it is important to be sure you are making the right decision. To give you an idea, here are the steps you’ll need to take:
Step 1: Find a Professional
If you’re thinking of changing the color of your vehicle, the best way to do it is to find a professional. They’ll be able to give you the best advice and recommendations for a high-quality finish.
Keep in mind that most insurance companies won’t cover you for any paint damage or for any costs associated with changing the color of your vehicle. You should also research and compare different auto shop prices and services to make sure you’re getting the best bang for your buck.
When it comes to the paint itself, there is a wide range of colors available, from fluorescent to the exact same color as your original car or van. Paying attention to the details of the paint job is important, as a high-quality finish will last much longer than a cheap one.
Step 2: Prepare the Car/Van
After finding a reputable paint shop, it’s time to prepare it for painting to get the best results. This includes cleaning the car to ensure that the paint sticks, sanding rough spots, and filling in any dents or other body damage.
Basically, you’ll want to make sure that all of the little imperfections are taken care of before you paint your vehicle.
Start by washing and cleaning the car to remove as much dirt and grime as possible. Then, use a putty knife and sandpaper to remove any areas of rust and corrosion.
If the car has any dents or scratches, use a body filler to repair them. You will also need to remove any adhesive residue, such as decals, with a rubber eraser. Finally, use a degreaser to get rid of any oil or grease.
Step 3: Start Painting
Depending on the color you choose, the professional may need to apply a few coats of primer before the paint job to ensure a high-quality finish. In some cases, you can even choose a fluorescent color or other special paint finishes for your vehicle.
Make sure you choose the exact color you want, as well as the type of paint you want to use. The paint will then be applied in several thin coats, allowing time for each layer to dry before applying the next coat.
After the painting is complete, you’ll want the professional to apply a clear coat to protect the paint and give it a glossy finish. This final step will ensure your new paint job looks great for years to come.
What Are the Benefits of Painting Your Vehicle
While you can expect the project to set you back hundreds of dollars, there are several pros to giving your vehicle a fresh coat of paint. Not only will you be able to pick the exact color you want but also ensure a high-quality finish.
Here are more reasons to push through with the project:
- Increased Resale Value
Changing the color of your car or van can increase its resale value. This is because brighter colors tend to be more popular, and a new paint job can make a car look as good as new.
- Enhanced Appearance
As mentioned, changing the color of your car or van can give it a unique and attractive look. This can make it stand out from the crowd and can make it look more stylish.
- Improved Safety
Bright paint colors are more visible on the road, helping improve the safety of your vehicle. This is especially important when you usually drive at night.
- Increased Protection
A new paint job can protect your car against scratches, keeping it looking good for longer.
Are There Cons To Changing The Color of Your Car?
Before you proceed with changing the color of your vehicle, make sure you consider the following cons:
- Cost
Changing the color of your vehicle can be expensive. The overall cost will depend on the type of car or van and the type of paint job you choose.
- Time
The entire project can take a couple of days, so you will need to find alternative ways to get from point A to B while your car is in the body shop.
- Maintenance
Some types of paint jobs require more maintenance than others, such as waxing and polishing to keep the color looking fresh.
Alternatives To Painting Your Vehicle
Besides painting, there are now new methods to give your car or van a much-needed makeover.
Car Wraps
Car wraps are an effective and more affordable method of changing your vehicle’s color without paint. The best part is that since they are made of vinyl, they can be applied directly over the original paint.
Going for a wrap job means you get the flexibility to change the color quickly and easily with minimal damage to the paint job.
You can also use car wraps to create a unique look, like using a fluorescent color, or to replicate an exact color you can’t find in paint shops. Most importantly, they offer a high-quality finish that won’t chip or peel.
Plasti Dip
Plasti Dip is a liquid-based coating you can use to customize your car or van’s color. It is a peelable, flexible, and removable rubber coating that can be sprayed or brushed on.
It can be used to change the color of your car in a variety of ways, including a complete color change, accent pieces, and various patterns. You can use Plasti Dip to create a unique look without the need for a paint job, which is a more affordable alternative.
Vinyl Film
Vinyl film is a great alternative to painting your car or van. It is a thin, flexible plastic material that can be applied to the car’s body to change its color.
It is relatively inexpensive and can be easily applied and removed. As such, it is an excellent option for those who want to change their car’s color but don’t want to commit to a permanent color change.
That said, it’s worth noting that it won’t provide the same quality finish as a professional paint job.
Getting a Car Paint Job
Can you change the color of your car or van? The decision is ultimately up to you. Make sure you consider the factors and weigh the pros and cons to decide which option is right for you.
Whether you go with a professional paint job, a DIY paint job, or a vinyl wrap or film, beware of the potential risks and costs associated with each option. Depending on the type of change you are looking for, you may also need to factor in the cost of insurance, the time required, and other costs.
