Service FAQs

Will you sand my vehicle before painting it?

Absolutely! We sand every surface that will receive paint. Sanding allows for a mechanical bond between the old surface and the new. Without proper sanding, paint will be much more likely to peel. Based on the individual needs of your vehicle, we also machine sand problem areas according to the package purchased.

What is the difference between single stage and base coat/clear coat?

Base coat/clear coat finishes are what car manufacturers’ use when building new vehicles since 1985. Base coat/Clear coat is also known as a two-stage finish. The first stage of the finish is the color you choose. Once that has dried, clear coat is applied over the base coat. The clear coat is what provides the gloss and protective layer that contribute to the longevity of the paint job. Base coat/clear coat finishes are the most durable and maintenance free of all finishes and the best option for color match. They are also the most expensive. Single stage finishes uses a technology that allows the color and protective resin to be applied in one single step. Single stage finishes are more difficult to color match.

What is a sealer?

Sealer is sprayed on before the paint is applied. The purpose is to create a uniform surface for your new paint to adhere to. It provides a slicker, more uniform looking paint job, especially for color changes and vehicles that have had bodywork performed.

How long will the paint last?

How long your paint will last is totally subjective to the way in which you care for your vehicle, the conditions in which it is driven and stored, environmental factors and more. All of our paint jobs are guaranteed for varying lengths of time, however, you can significantly increase the life of your paint job by keeping it washed and waxed.

Estimates FAQs

Why won’t the shop give me an estimate over the phone or from an email with a picture?

Although we can give you a price for a paint package, we absolutely must see your vehicle in person in order to provide you with an estimate. It is very common for vehicles to require additional prep to ensure you to receive the smoothest finish possible. Peeling, delaminating clear coat, and cracks in your old finish require extra preparation. These conditions can’t be seen in photos. We do not give prices over the phone or by e-mail.

Do I have to make an appointment for an estimate?

Appointments are not necessary, but we do schedule appointments for your convenience.

Do I have to pay for an estimate?

Estimates are 100% free of charge and obligation.

Will the price I pay be the same as the estimate? No surprises?

The only time the price you would pay would be higher than your initial estimate is when additional hidden damage is discovered during the repair and/or refinishing process. This is extremely uncommon, however. When it does occur, we always call you to explain the situation, offer you the opportunity to come in and see the repair area first hand and to discuss additional costs involved in the repair.

Pricing FAQs

How do you paint cars so inexpensively?

Maaco has developed the easiest, most affordable and reliable paint process in the world. Our 40+ years of experience makes our approach to overall auto painting the best way to turn the car you drive back into the car you love. We also have the advantage of buying power behind us. Our 450+ locations nationwide and long-term relationships with vendors allows us to buy materials at deeply discounted prices. In turn, we pass that savings on to you.

Why does it cost so much to repair a small ding?

We get asked this question more than almost any other question! Repairing a dent or ding is a very involved process. There is a minimum amount of time it takes to repair one dent. Picture this: a body repair technician must first grind all of the paint off of the area to be repaired, then he must mix filler with a catalyst, then apply it uniformly, then wait for it to dry, then sand it, then either glaze it or apply a second coat of filler, then wait for that to dry, sand it again, mix a 2k primer on a computerized scale, apply the primer, wait for that to dry, then sand it. Only then is the job finished!

What if I don’t want to pay for the extra prep to take out the scratches and dents, won’t my car still look better with new paint?

You may choose to simply have your vehicle painted without addressing issues like peeling, cracking and old bodywork. Keep in mind that in order to receive the smoothest possible finish and highest possible gloss, these issues will need to be addressed. If the conditions are bad enough, it can and will affect the gloss and overall appearance of the newly painted surfaces. If you choose to paint over conditions that your estimator has advised you to repair, you will not receive a warranty. If you choose to paint over existing dents and dings, you will still receive a paint warranty. You will simply have shiny dents!

How much does it cost to change the color of my car?

If you simply want to change the color of the exterior, there is a charge in addition of your paint package to do so. Although it is not necessary, you can have your doorjambs, under the hood and trunk painted for an additional charge.

Offers & Promotions FAQs

Why does my newly painted bumper not match the color of the rest of my car?

Most of the vehicle surface is metal, whereas the bumper cover is plastic. Paint adheres to these two materials in different ways, giving the paint a different color.

Why is my estimate more than the advertised paint package?

The finishes on many vehicles have deteriorated to the point where they cannot simply be painted over. Our packages include standard prep to remove nicks and scratches (excluding the 20/20) and hand sanding to provide a mechanical bond for the new finish, but do not include a provision for repairing cracks, peeling or cracking paint, and delaminating clear coat. In order for your new paint job to look its best, these issues must be addressed before refinishing can occur.

Why don’t all centers honor the promotion running on TV?

MAACO is a franchise company, meaning each of our centers is individually owned and operated. As with all franchise systems, prices and participation vary by center.

Why is there an additional charge to paint my Truck or SUV?

In general, our advertised prices are for sedans. This is not always the case, but usually trucks and SUVs are more expensive to paint simply because of the extra labor needed to paint a larger vehicle.

General FAQs

Will my car look like new after a Maaco paint job?

NO! It will look like your car with a new paint job! Although a new paint job goes a long way towards making your vehicle look great, nothing we can do will make your car look new again.

Should I wash my car before I bring it in for painting?

It is not necessary, but we welcome you to! The cleaner your vehicle is, the easier it is to prepare for paint.

Is body repair included?

NO! Body repair is a laborious process requiring specialized skills, tools and materials. For this reason, we employ extremely skilled technicians that have dedicated their careers to the art of reversing damage to vehicle bodies. The only way for you to know exactly what this will cost is to come by and let us take a look at it. We offer free estimates, any time during business hours, with or without an appointment.

How long does it take to paint my car?

80% of all vehicles we paint are ready in 2-3 business days. You can add a day or two if you have a significant amount of bodywork, need replacement parts, or if your vehicle requires extra preparation to repair existing paint damage. It is not uncommon for customers to drop their car off early one day and have it back by the end of the next business day!