Repainting your car can refresh its look, boost resale value, or personalize it to your style. But before you start, you need to know: how much paint does it take to paint a car? And what should Canadian drivers expect in terms of cost, climate considerations, and product availability?
Limited Time Automotive Amazon DealsIn this guide, we’ll break down how much automotive paint you need by vehicle type, finish, and technique, with estimates tailored for Canadian car owners and DIY enthusiasts.
| Vehicle Size | Basecoat Required | Clearcoat Required | Total Paint (Est.) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Small Car (e.g., Honda Civic) | 1 gallon (3.8 L) | 1 gallon (3.8 L) | ~2 gallons (7.6 L) |
| Midsize Car (e.g., Toyota Camry) | 1.5 gallons (5.7 L) | 1–1.5 gallons (3.8–5.7 L) | ~3 gallons (11.4 L) |
| Full-Size SUV/Truck | 2–3 gallons (7.6–11.4 L) | 1.5–2 gallons (5.7–7.6 L) | ~4–5 gallons (15–19 L) |
Note: These estimates assume a standard 2–3 coat application and include minor overspray.
Different paint types have varying coverage:
| Paint Type | Coverage per Gallon (approx.) |
|---|---|
| Acrylic Enamel | 120–140 sq ft |
| Urethane Basecoat | 100–120 sq ft |
| Waterborne Paint | ~100 sq ft |
If you’re painting over bare metal or changing colours, you’ll also need:
If you’re in Canada and want to simplify the process, automotive paint kits are available online and at suppliers like Canadian Tire, NAPA Auto Parts, or FinishMaster Canada.
| Paint Kit Type | Includes | Price (CAD) |
|---|---|---|
| Basic Single-Stage Kit | Paint + hardener | $150–$250 |
| 2K Basecoat/Clearcoat Kit | Base + clear + hardener | $250–$450 |
| Premium System | Primer + base + clear + reducer | $400–$700 |
| Item | Cost (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Primer (1–2 gallons) | $60–$120 |
| Basecoat (1–3 gallons) | $100–$300 |
| Clearcoat (1–2 gallons) | $100–$250 |
| Activator/Reducer | $60–$150 |
| Masking Supplies | $30–$80 |
| HVLP Spray Gun | $100–$300 |
| Protective Gear (respirator, gloves) | $50–$100 |
Total DIY Cost: ~$400 to $1,200 CAD, depending on vehicle size and paint type.
| Option | Average Cost (CAD) | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|---|
| DIY Paint Job | $500–$1,200 | Budget-friendly, satisfying | Time-consuming, less refined |
| Pro Job – Economy | $1,200–$2,500 | Quicker, better equipment | Limited colour/finish options |
| Pro Job – Premium | $3,000–$8,000 | Factory-quality, custom work | Expensive |
DIY painting is ideal for older vehicles, project cars, or if you want to learn. For newer or luxury vehicles, professional jobs ensure lasting quality and finish.
Let’s say you want to repaint your RAV4 from white to metallic blue:
| Item | Estimate |
|---|---|
| Surface Area | ~150 sq ft |
| Primer Needed | 1 gallon |
| Basecoat (3 coats) | 1.5–2 gallons |
| Clearcoat (2 coats) | 1–1.5 gallons |
| Total Paint Volume | ~4 gallons (15 L) |
| DIY Paint Budget | ~$650–$900 CAD |
Because Ontario winters are cold and humid, you’ll need a heated, ventilated garage or wait until May–September for optimal weather.
For most Canadian car owners:
While DIY paint jobs require time, tools, and patience, they can be rewarding and cost-effective—especially with Canadian supply chains and weather in mind.
Always factor in surface area, number of coats, and paint type, and when in doubt, buy a little extra paint—colour matching later can be difficult.
