Paint jobs and Rust stop treatments?

2008 HYUNDAI ELANTRA
140,000 MILES
Avatar
ROCKETMAN007
I want to buy a new car, but wasn't sure how limited the paint job options might be for a new car. Maybe 8 colors available or something?

How expensive is it to repaint a car and would it harm the car at all versus the first painting job?


Are there certain types of cars in which getting an antirust treatment would not be recommended? I suppose getting holes drilled into the bottom of a Rollsroyce to spray inside doors would be ill advised?
Apr 12, 2025 at 8:17 PM
Advertisement
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,503 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
The first paint job the car gets is the best it can have; the dealer has the paint choices which are different from model to model. Also, the dealer offers good anti-rust packages in which case when you get the car you can inspect the job they do and add additional spot treatments as needed. I am not sure about drilling into the doors.
Apr 13, 2025 at 12:35 PM
Avatar
ROCKETMAN007
  • MEMBER
  • 67 POSTS
Ruststop treatment (done annually) involves drilling holes in car door bottoms first time to spray inside door and drain excess out and under hood to prevent rusting from happening.

Dealerships don't give cars their first paint job? How can I look up the colors available for each model? Any direct from manufacturer options that increase selection?
Apr 14, 2025 at 9:36 AM
Avatar
STRAILER
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 54,503 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
I would go to the car manufacturers website; they will have the colors available. Thanks for the info on the rust prevention for the doors.
Apr 14, 2025 at 11:17 AM
Avatar
ROCKETMAN007
  • MEMBER
  • 67 POSTS
Okay, then in general are there other procedures that involve drilling holes into a car that one could argue destroys a warranty or can actually have bad effect on vehicle?

I got Rust stop yearly when I first got my current car, and it didn't rust at all for like 15 years.
Apr 14, 2025 at 5:49 PM
Join 2CarPros for free, one of the most advanced car repair communities on the internet. From first-time drivers to seasoned mechanics, everyone is welcome to reply, share details, and get better answers. You can add a temporary image or video first; uploads are limited to 20 MB.
Ask a Free Question
Repair Safety Notice: This information is for general instructional purposes only. Vehicle repair can be dangerous. Verify all information, follow manufacturer service procedures, use proper tools and safety equipment, and consult a qualified repair shop when needed.