Faded paint, peeling clear, and chalky oxidation can make a good truck look worn out. If you’re asking How Much To Clear Coat A Truck, the real answer depends on prep work, panel condition, and whether you hire a shop or do it yourself. This guide breaks down actual U.S. costs, materials, and the exact steps that determine whether the finish lasts 2 years—or 10.
How Much To Clear Coat A Truck at a body shop?
Professional pricing varies by condition and size (mid-size vs. full-size truck).
| Service Level | What’s Included | Typical Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Spot clear (hood/roof) | Sand, blend, reclear panels | $400–$900 |
| Partial truck | Upper panels only | $900–$1,800 |
| Full truck reclear | Sand entire body, 2–3 coats | $2,000–$4,500 |
| Full repaint + clear | Basecoat + clear system | $4,500–$8,000 |
Why the range? Labor time. Prep can take 70% of the job.
Background on automotive clear coat chemistry:
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clearcoat
What actually drives the price up?
Shops charge for time, not just paint.
Cost drivers:
- Peeling clear that must be fully feather-sanded
- Oxidation baked into basecoat
- Rust spots near edges
- Large surface area (crew cab + long bed)
- Masking trim, lights, and glass
Read too: Top Trucking Companies That Still Have Manual Transmissions
If peeling is widespread, shops often recommend repaint + clear, not just reclearing.
DIY cost to clear coat a truck (materials list)
If you have a garage and patience, DIY is possible.
Materials you’ll need:
- Automotive clear coat kit: $120–$250
- Spray gun (HVLP): $60–$150
- Air compressor: existing or $250+
- Sandpaper (320–2000 grit): $40
- Masking supplies: $35
- Rubbing compound & polish: $45
- Respirator & safety gear: $60
Total DIY cost: $350–$700
Time required: 2 full days
Step-by-step: Proper clear coat process (the part most people skip)
Step 1: Wash and degrease
Use wax/grease remover. Surface temp: 68–80°F.
Step 2: Sand failing clear
- 320–400 grit for peeling areas
- 600–800 grit for intact areas
Goal: smooth, matte finish.
Step 3: Feather edges
No sharp edges between bare and coated areas.
Step 4: Final wet sand
1000–1500 grit with water for smooth base.
Step 5: Mask carefully
Lights, trim, glass fully covered.
Step 6: Spray clear coat
- 2–3 coats
- 10–15 minutes flash time between coats
- Even passes, 6–8 inches from surface
Step 7: Cure and wet sand
After 24 hours, wet sand 1500 → 2000 grit.
Step 8: Buff and polish
Restore deep gloss with compound and polish.
Skipping sanding steps is why most DIY jobs peel within a year.
Shop vs DIY — honest comparison
| Factor | DIY | Body Shop |
|---|---|---|
| Cost | Low | High |
| Finish quality | Moderate | Excellent |
| Tools needed | Many | None |
| Time | 2–3 days | 2–4 days |
| Longevity | 2–5 years | 7–10 years |
When clear coating alone is NOT enough
You must repaint first if:
- Base color is faded to primer
- Rust bubbles visible
- Paint is cracking like dry mud
- Sunburn on hood/roof is severe
In these cases, clear coat won’t bond correctly.
Real example from a truck owner
2014 pickup with peeling hood and roof:
- Shop quote: $1,200 for reclear top panels
- DIY cost: $420 materials
- DIY result lasted 3 years before minor peel returned
Good prep extended the life significantly.
How long does a new clear coat last?
- DIY average: 3–5 years
- Professional booth job: 8–12 years
- With waxing every 3 months: even longer
UV exposure is the main enemy.
Mistakes that ruin clear coat jobs
- Spraying over glossy paint without sanding
- Spraying in humid weather (>70% humidity)
- Holding gun too close → runs
- Not using enough coats
- No buffing after cure
These lead to orange peel, peeling, or cloudiness.
FAQ
Can I clear coat over old clear coat?
Yes, if properly sanded to a matte finish.
Do I need to remove old peeling clear?
Absolutely. It will continue to lift underneath.
What grit should I sand before clear coat?
Finish with 800–1000 grit before spraying.
How long before I can drive the truck?
After 24 hours, but avoid washing for 7 days.
Is spray can clear coat good enough?
Only for small spots, not full panels.
Conclusion
Understanding How Much To Clear Coat A Truck comes down to prep time, surface condition, and whether you choose DIY or a body shop. Done correctly, a fresh clear coat restores gloss, protects paint, and adds years to your truck’s appearance.
If this guide helped you plan your project, share it with other truck owners who want their paint to shine again.
Leave a Reply