Why does metallic paint cost more?

…yet a paint expert says there should be little variation.

BASF Chemical Company spokesman Allan Knight says metallic paint is just "standard paint" with particles of polished aluminium added.

He says it should cost more because it takes longer to apply.

"It's more time-consuming because you have to put a clear coat over it, otherwise metallic paint goes dull," he says.

However, Mazda, Lexus and Subaru do not charge any extra for metallic or "mica paints".

Mazda Australia spokesman Steve Maciver says they have "always done it as an advantage for our customers".

"We obviously know how much it costs to use metallic paint, but we made a business decision."

Subaru Australia spokesman David Rowley says it was a "value-added" decision made several years ago.

"Feedback from customers and dealers is that it's seen as a positive," he says.

Yet Knight says car companies are within their rights to charge more for the paint because it costs more.

"It can be more expensive, but it depends on the colour. Some colours are more expensive than others," he says. "For example the bright blue metallic paint used on a Holden Commodore is one of the most expensive you can buy."

However, prices charged to buyers do not always reflect the cost of metallic paint.

Holden charges a flat $500 for metallic paint, despite the fact that it uses one of the most expensive metallic paint colours in its pallet. Knight says prices shouldn't vary according to the brand.

"A Porsche, Land Cruiser or a Commodore could use the same can of paint," he says.

Yet some car companies, such as Audi, BMW and Porsche can charge as much as $2000 for metallic paint. Most car companies charge between $250 and $500 for metallic or pearlescent finishes. However, even within one manufacturer, metallic paint prices can vary substantially.

BMW charges $1940 for metallic paint on a 3 Series Sedan, but no extra for an M3 Sedan, says product spokesperson Lucy McLellan.

"On most of the high-end products, metallic paint is standard and with the models where it's optional, the prices do vary," she says.

Porsche charges $1950 for metal-flecked paint on a Boxster and Cayman but $2190 on Cayenne models, while it's a no-cost option on other Porsches.

Porsche Cars Australia spokesman Paul Ellis says the price variation is also effected by the surface area of the vehicle. Australian Competition and Consumer Commission spokesman Brent Rebecca says businesses are able to set their own prices for options such as metallic paint, so long as their advertising creates an "accurate overall impression".

The ACCC has produced a 28-page pricing manual for the motor vehicle industry which makes no mention of metallic paint.

WHAT IS METALLIC PAINT?

It is also called mica, metal flake and polychromatic paint. Small polished flakes of aluminium and other metals are added to the paint to produce the glittering effect.

It also adds a more 3D effect to the surface, reflecting body contours. Metallic paint is sealed with a clear coat to preserve its lustre.