A chrome paint job is a process of applying a chrome-like finish to a vehicle’s exterior. The paint used in this process is designed to produce a highly reflective, metallic appearance similar to chrome.
On average, a chrome paint job can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. For example, a full chrome paint job for a compact car may cost around $1,500 to $3,000, while a larger luxury vehicle may cost upwards of $5,000 or more.
The cost of a chrome paint job in the US can vary widely depending on factors such as the size of the vehicle, the quality of the paint and materials used, and the location and reputation of the auto shop.

The following is a list of elements that can be included in the overall cost of a typical chrome paint job and an approximate cost for each:
- Basecoat paint – $500 to $1,000
- Clearcoat – $500 to $1,000
- Chrome paint – $500 to $1,500
- Labor – $500 to $1,500
- Sanding and preparation – $200 to $500
- Materials and supplies – $200 to $500
- Primer – $100 to $300
- Touch-up paint – $100 to $300
Here are the typical average costs of the chrome paint job in a table format:
Element | Cost |
Basecoat paint | $500 to $1,000 |
Clearcoat | $500 to $1,000 |
Chrome paint | $500 to $1,500 |
Labor | $500 to $1,500 |
Sanding and preparation | $200 to $500 |
Materials and supplies | $200 to $500 |
Primer | $100 to $300 |
Touch-up paint | $100 to $300 |
Please note that these are rough estimates and the actual cost may vary depending on the size of the vehicle, the quality of the paint and materials used, and the location and reputation of the auto shop.
The wide range of $500 to $1,500 for the Chrome paint element in the cost of a chrome paint job is due to several factors, including the quality of the paint, the type of chrome being used, and the amount needed to complete the job.
Higher-quality chrome paint may be more expensive, but can also provide a longer-lasting, more durable finish.
The type of chrome being used can also impact the cost, with more premium options typically costing more. For example, liquid chrome is more expensive than regular chrome spray paint.
The amount of chrome paint needed to complete the job can also impact the cost. A larger vehicle will require more paint and therefore may have a higher cost.

Examples of chrome paint job cost
Here are a few examples of how much would it cost based on the type of car or the quality of the paint:
- Compact car – $1,500 to $3,000. For a compact car, the cost of a chrome paint job can range from $1,500 to $3,000. This can vary depending on the quality of the paint and materials used, the size of the vehicle, and the location and reputation of the auto shop.
- Luxury vehicle – $5,000 to $10,000. For a larger luxury vehicle, the cost of a chrome paint job can be higher, ranging from $5,000 to $10,000 or more. The size of the vehicle and the level of detail required can impact the final cost.
- High-quality paint – $2,000 to $5,000. The quality of the paint can also impact the overall cost of a chrome paint job. For a vehicle with high-quality paint and materials, the cost can range from $2,000 to $5,000. This can include premium clearcoats and chrome paint, as well as professional application and labor costs.
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FAQs
Is it better to wrap chrome or paint it?
Wrapping is generally considered to be more durable, while painting is often less expensive and can provide a more permanent finish. Whether it is better to wrap chrome or paint it can depend on several factors, including personal preference, budget, and the intended use of the vehicle.
Is chrome paint durable?
Chrome paint is generally durable, but the longevity of the finish can depend on the quality of the paint used, as well as environmental factors such as exposure to sunlight, rain, and other elements.
How much does it cost to get a car’s chrome blacked out?
The cost to get a car’s chrome blacked out can range from $500 to $2,500 or more, depending on the size of the vehicle and the type of black-out treatment desired.
How much does it cost to remove chrome paint?
The cost to remove chrome paint can range from $500 to $2,000 or more, depending on the size of the vehicle and the type of paint removal desired.
Factors that can impact the cost include the location and reputation of the auto shop, the complexity of the job, and the materials and labor required. The cost may also be influenced by the type of paint used, as some types of chrome paint may be more difficult to remove than others.