Free tool · September 2026 prices
Is the dealer's coating price fair?
Enter the quote you were given for ceramic coating, paint protection film or paint correction. We'll show where it sits among prices independent shops advertise, nationally and where you live. It's a comparison, not a verdict: what's included matters as much as the number.
What to ask before you sign
- Which product, exactly? The brand and the product name, not just "ceramic" or "paint protection package."
- What prep is included? A wash and decontamination, or machine polishing to remove swirls first. Correction is often most of the labor.
- What is covered? Paint only, or also wheels, glass and trim. For film: which panels.
- Who applies it, and where? A local installer, or the dealer's own staff, and how long the car is with them.
- What does the warranty require? Inspections, approved wash products or yearly paid maintenance can all be conditions.
Then get one or two quotes from independent shops for the same job. Find shops near you, or see prices by state and metro.
Advertised prices from the September 2026 price index, grouped by where each shop is. Vehicle-size, durability and coverage figures come from the same shops' posted prices on our cost pages. None of these are quotes for your car.
Dealer coating prices: common questions
How much should a dealer charge for ceramic coating?
There is no set price, but you can compare. In September 2026, independent shops advertised ceramic coating at a median of $950, with half of advertised prices between $600 and $1,399 (702 shops). Ask the dealer which product it is, how many layers, and whether the paint is polished first.
Can I say no to a dealer coating package?
A coating or film package is an add-on, so ask for the car price without it and in writing. If it is already on the car, ask what product was applied and for the warranty terms, then compare.
What should a dealer coating quote include?
The coating brand and exact product, the number of layers, what prep is included (a wash only, or paint correction), which surfaces are covered, who applies it and where, and the written warranty with any inspection or maintenance it requires.
Is a dealer coating the same as one from a coating shop?
Sometimes. Some dealers send cars to a local installer; others apply a product in-house. The name on the contract does not tell you which, so ask who does the work and how long they spend on the car.