The cost to have a black 1998 Honda Accord painted typically ranges from $500 to $5,000+, depending on several factors. On average, you can expect to pay around $1,500-$3,000 for a decent quality paint job on this vehicle. However, the final price can vary significantly based on the quality of work, materials used, and other considerations.
Let’s break down the key factors that influence the cost and what you can expect to pay for different types of paint jobs on a 1998 Honda Accord.
What Affects the Cost of Painting a 1998 Honda Accord?
Several important factors determine the overall cost of painting a 1998 Honda Accord:
Location
The cost of painting your Accord can vary quite a bit depending on where you live. Labor rates and overhead costs tend to be higher in major cities and coastal areas compared to rural locations. For example, you may pay 20-30% more to have your car painted in Los Angeles versus a small town in the Midwest.
Some average price ranges by location type:
- Major metropolitan area: $2,000 – $5,000+
- Mid-size city: $1,500 – $3,500
- Small town/rural area: $1,000 – $2,500
So your geographic location can have a significant impact on the final price tag. Getting quotes from multiple local shops is recommended to find the best deal in your area.
Type of Paint
The type of automotive paint used is another major cost factor. There are a few main options for painting a 1998 Accord:
- Single-stage urethane: $1,000 – $3,000
- Base coat/clear coat: $1,500 – $4,000
- Water-based paint: $1,500 – $4,500
- High-end urethane: $3,000 – $6,000+
Single-stage urethane is the most affordable option but doesn’t provide as durable or glossy of a finish. A two-stage base coat/clear coat paint job is the most common choice, offering a good balance of quality and cost. Water-based paints are becoming more popular due to environmental benefits. High-end urethane paints provide the best durability and shine but at a premium price.
Quality of Paint Job
The level of quality and attention to detail also greatly impacts cost:
- Basic repaint: $500 – $1,500
- Standard paint job: $1,000 – $3,500
- High-quality paint job: $2,500 – $5,000+
- Show car quality: $5,000 – $10,000+
A basic repaint may only involve minimal prep work and a single coat of paint. A standard job includes proper prep, priming, and multiple coats. High-quality paint jobs involve extensive prep, premium materials, and expert application techniques. Show car quality paint jobs spare no expense to achieve a flawless finish.
Body Work Required
If your 1998 Accord needs body work before painting, this will add to the total cost:
- Minor dent/scratch repair: $200 – $500 per panel
- Major dent repair: $500 – $1,500+ per panel
- Rust repair: $500 – $2,000+ per area
- Panel replacement: $500 – $2,000+ per panel
The amount of prep work and repairs needed can significantly increase the overall price. Be sure to factor in any necessary body work when budgeting for your paint job.
Shop or DIY
Having a professional auto body shop paint your Accord will cost more than doing it yourself, but provides better quality results:
- DIY paint job: $200 – $1,000
- Maaco budget paint: $500 – $1,500
- Independent shop: $1,000 – $4,000
- Dealership: $2,000 – $5,000+
While a DIY job can save money, it requires significant time, skill and proper equipment to achieve good results. Budget paint chains offer affordable prices but may cut corners. Independent shops provide a good middle ground of quality and value. Dealerships tend to be the most expensive option.
What is the Average Cost of Painting a 1998 Honda Accord?
Now that we’ve covered the main cost factors, let’s look at some average price ranges for different types of paint jobs on a 1998 Honda Accord:
Base Coat/Clear Coat Paint Job
A standard base coat/clear coat paint job on a 1998 Accord typically costs between $1,500 to $3,500. This price range includes:
- Thorough cleaning and prep work
- Priming as needed
- 2-3 coats of base color
- 2-3 coats of clear coat
- Basic cut and buff
This type of paint job provides a nice glossy finish and decent durability for an older vehicle like a ’98 Accord. It’s a good middle-ground option for most owners.
Single Stage Urethane Paint Job
A single stage urethane paint job usually runs $1,000 to $2,500 for a 1998 Accord. This more affordable option includes:
- Basic prep work
- 2-3 coats of single stage paint
- Light buffing
While not as durable or shiny as a base/clear paint job, single stage urethane can still provide a nice refresh for an aging Accord on a budget.
High-End Paint Job
For those wanting the best possible finish on their ’98 Accord, a high-end paint job costs $3,000 to $6,000+. This premium option typically includes:
- Extensive prep and body work
- High-quality primer
- Multiple coats of premium paint
- Several layers of clear coat
- Wet sanding between coats
- Extensive cut and buff for mirror finish
This level of paint job can make an older Accord look almost new again, but comes at a steep price.
Can I Paint My 1998 Honda Accord Myself?
Painting a 1998 Accord yourself is possible and can save money, but requires significant time, skill and proper equipment. Here’s a breakdown of potential DIY costs:
Cost of Paint and Materials
For a DIY paint job, expect to spend $200 to $600 on paint and materials:
- Automotive paint: $100 – $300
- Primer: $20 – $50
- Clear coat: $50 – $100
- Sandpaper, masking tape, etc: $30 – $100
- Safety equipment: $50 – $100
Higher quality paints and materials will be on the upper end of these ranges.
Cost of Equipment Rental
If you don’t already own the necessary equipment, factor in rental costs:
- Paint sprayer: $50 – $100 per day
- Air compressor: $50 – $100 per day
- Sander: $30 – $50 per day
You may need the equipment for 3-5 days for a full paint job.
Time and Labor
Don’t underestimate the time required for a DIY paint job. Expect to spend 40-80 hours total, including:
- Prep work: 20-40 hours
- Painting: 10-20 hours
- Drying time: 24-48 hours
- Buffing/finishing: 10-20 hours
Your time is valuable, so factor that into the true cost of a DIY job.
What If I Want to Repair Rust or Dents Before Painting?
Addressing any body damage or rust before painting is highly recommended for the best results. Here are some typical costs for common repairs on a 1998 Accord:
Cost of Body Work
- Small dent (door ding): $50 – $150
- Medium dent (fender bender): $200 – $500
- Large dent (major collision): $500 – $1,500+
Paintless dent repair may be possible for minor dents, saving money. More severe damage could require panel replacement.
Cost of Rust Repair
- Surface rust: $200 – $500 per area
- Rust holes: $500 – $1,000 per area
- Extensive rust: $1,000 – $3,000+
Minor surface rust can often be sanded and treated. Larger rust holes require cutting out the affected area and welding in new metal. Extensive rust may necessitate full panel replacement.
Are There Any Additional Costs or Fees?
When budgeting for your Accord’s paint job, don’t forget to factor in these potential additional costs:
Disposal Fees
Many shops charge a disposal fee of $50 – $200 to properly dispose of old paint, chemicals, and materials. This helps cover their costs for environmentally-friendly waste management.
Taxes and Surcharges
Sales tax will be added to the total cost in most areas. Some shops may also charge environmental fees or other surcharges. These can add 5-10% to the final bill.
How Long Does It Take to Paint a 1998 Honda Accord?
The time required to paint a 1998 Accord can vary based on the extent of work needed and the shop’s schedule. Here’s a general timeline:
Time for Preparation
Proper prep work is crucial and typically takes 1-3 days, including:
- Washing and degreasing: 2-4 hours
- Sanding and smoothing: 8-16 hours
- Masking and taping: 2-4 hours
- Priming: 2-4 hours
More extensive body work or rust repair will add to this time.
Time for Painting
The actual painting process usually takes 1-2 days:
- Base coat application: 2-4 hours
- Drying time: 4-8 hours
- Clear coat application: 2-4 hours
- Final drying: 12-24 hours
Multiple coats and wet sanding between layers will extend this timeline.
Time for Drying and Reassembly
After painting, additional time is needed for:
- Final drying/curing: 24-48 hours
- Removing masking/tape: 1-2 hours
- Buffing and polishing: 4-8 hours
- Reassembling trim/parts: 2-4 hours
In total, expect your 1998 Accord to be in the shop for 5-10 days for a quality paint job.
Can I Get a Warranty or Guarantee on the Paint Job?
Many reputable auto body shops offer warranties on their paint work. Here’s what you can typically expect:
Warranty Options
- Basic warranty: 1-3 years
- Standard warranty: 3-5 years
- Premium warranty: 5-10 years
- Lifetime warranty: For the life of the vehicle
Longer warranties usually come with higher-end paint jobs using premium materials.
Guarantee Period
Most paint warranties cover:
- Peeling or flaking paint
- Fading or discoloration
- Cracking or checking
- Loss of gloss
Be sure to carefully read the warranty terms, as they may exclude damage from accidents, environmental factors, or improper care.
Wrapping Up
The cost to paint a black 1998 Honda Accord can range widely from $500 for a basic DIY job to $5,000+ for a show-quality professional paint job. For most owners, budgeting $1,500 to $3,000 for a decent quality paint job from a reputable shop is a good target. Be sure to get multiple quotes, ask about warranties, and factor in any necessary body work when planning your Accord’s paint makeover.