I own a 2004 XB, 226K. I've done maintenance and some small upgrades (head unit, backup camera, new alternator, plugs) but am getting more and more into making this car look as good as it makes me feel. I really want to paint the whole thing since the clearcoat is coming off and it just is starting to look more shabby. The cost of painting, even with Maaco (ugh), is $3k. The car is not worth that much. There is also a rentable paint spray booth in our area and I've toyed with that as well. What solutions have you owners arrived at to paint your cars that may not be so expensive? Eager to find out.

 

DIY paint job can vary wildly based upon your experience and skillz. Renting booth really helps with dust control and gives you better results. Do they rent compressor and gun too?

Type of paint you get greatly affects results. Best stuff I’ve used was DuPont Imron. Needs forced-air respirator due to cyanide in paint’s activator. Also difficult to spray since it continues to flow for 20-min to give that super-glossy wet look.