OUR TOP PICK FOR
Low mileage drivers
Finder rating: 4/5
Finder makes money from featured partners, but editorial opinions are our own. Advertiser Disclosure
Does car insurance cover paint damage?
Get covered for a damaged paint job with a comprehensive policy.
Finder rating: 4/5
OUR TOP PICK FOR
Claims-free drivers
Finder rating: 4/5
OUR TOP PICK FOR
Comparing rates
Finder rating: 5/5
OUR TOP PICK FOR
Drivers over 50
Finder rating: 3.5/5
You might be able to claim paint damage to your car under car insurance if you have comprehensive coverage, but it’s not always a good idea to make a minor paint damage claim.
When will I be covered for paint damage?
Car insurance will usually only pay for damage that results from an insured event. In the case of paint damage, you’ll generally only be able to claim it with extra coverage like comprehensive car insurance, except in some very specific situations, such as paint damage caused by a collision with another driver.
Will property damage liability insurance cover a paint job?
Since this is primarily liability insurance, it will generally only cover a paint job for the other party if you are at fault, or for your car if another driver ran into you. Liability only coverage won’t cover a new paint job after an accident that you caused.
Will collision coverage cover a paint job?
Collision coverage, which provides coverage for your own property if you are at fault, will likely cover a paint job after a car accident. But it won’t cover pre-existing paint damage. So if your front bumper has scratched paint but your car was rearended, your claim won’t include coverage for your front bumper.
Will comprehensive car insurance cover a paint job?
Comprehensive coverage might pay for new paint following any insurable event that damaged the paint job. This might be an accident, a storm, theft, vandalism or other incident.
What exclusions should I be aware of?
Car insurance generally won’t cover damage caused by deterioration, wear and tear or weathering. You typically won’t be able to claim paint damage when it’s the result of ongoing exposure to rain, sand, sun, salt, water or similar. However, you might still be able to make a comprehensive claim it if your paint was damaged in a single event or weather-related incident.
How is paint wear and tear covered?
Car insurance specifically won’t cover damage from wear and tear or deterioration, but some deterioration of paint is inevitable in older cars. In some cases, the cost of new paint will actually be deducted from a car insurance claim, or you might have to pay for the cost of a new paint job on top of a claim.
For example, if your claim involves brand new panels to replace old and weathered ones, an insurer might ask you to pay the difference in value between brand new vs old and weathered. Your insurer wants to avoid inadvertently paying for a new paint job when it’s not covered.
Should I make a claim for paint damage?
It depends on the cost of repairs and your deductible. If you can pay for paint repairs out of pocket or the damage is less than your deductible, it will probably save you money in the long run to take care of repairs without involving insurance.
How much does a car paint job cost out of pocket?
The cost of repainting a car can vary widely depending on how good a job it is, whether you’re getting any additional protective coatings, what kind of paint it is and what kind of car you’re driving.
Generally, you might expect to pay several thousand for an entire repainting, or up to $1,000 for a basic touch up.
- DIY painting. You can often order specialty touch-up paint from your mechanic that matches your car’s current color for less than $50. Touch up small spots and dings yourself in only a few minutes.
- A basic touch up. Mostly cosmetic, up to $1,000. The invisible parts of the car, like under the hood, generally won’t be done, and you’re looking at basic synthetic enamel paint. It’s mostly focused on matching the color as close as possible and isn’t expected to be a long-term fix.
- A full paint job. A full body paint job usually involves sanding the body, removing rust and repainting it for a consistent and clear finish. This is generally far more expensive than a basic touch up, considering the amount of work and materials involved, and could cost several thousand dollars.
Bottom line
You might be able to fix your car’s paint or get a new paint job through your insurance, but be prepared to pay your deductible. Compare your options to find a car insurance company that won’t cheap out on paint coverage.
Compare comprehensive policies that cover paint damage
More guides on Finder
-
Compare car insurance in Stockton
Compare car insurance rates and features that serve Stockton.
-
Car insurance in Modesto
These 4 best car insurance picks are a good starting point for shopping around in Modesto.
-
5 best life insurance companies for parents
The 5 best life insurance companies for parents at different stages of life.
-
Car insurance in Bakersfield
Compare top car insurance companies in Bakersfield, plus see why you need extra coverage here.
-
Car insurance in Sacramento
Shop for car insurance in Sacramento with the best coverage, rates, service and local reputation.
-
Compare car insurance in San Jose
Car insurance isn’t optional in San Jose. Compare insurers that serve San Jose, California.
-
Compare car insurance in Fresno
Compare insurers that serve Fresno, California, side by side.
-
Car insurance in San Diego
These top 4 companies should narrow down your car insurance options in San Diego.
-
Car insurance in Denver
See our 4 best picks for car insurance in Denver, plus a few more to consider.
-
Car insurance engine SR-22
Get cheap car insurance quotes for you.
Ask an Expert
