Best way to paint a new front valance

[DaveInLA]

I'm thinking of buying a new front lower valance for my 1989 325is, as I can't seem to find a used black one in good condition.

Anyway, these come unpainted (and unprimered, I think). I don't care too much about the quality of the paint or if it matches perfectly to the rest of the body (poor repaint job as it is), seeing as how this is my beater. Should I try painting it myself? If so, how difficult a job is it? How much will the parts cost me? Or should I take it to a body shop? How much will a cheap-o job like this cost me? Remember, it's just a valance.

[czag13]

DIY- go to paintscratch.com, match the color code of your car there, and do it yourself. its just your beater, but try to make it look ok and kind of matching while your at it.

[bimmer2288]

I painted my 'is' valance with a can of black trim paint. Looked great, cost me $5.00. Body shop wanted 300.00 to paint the valance alone.

[DaveInLA]

I do want it to look "okay", but seeing as how the car has been repainted by the previous owner (with a craptastic black), the car is no longer the same shade of "diamond schwartz" from the factory. I'm not going to spend top $$ for the valance (not the spoiler) to look better than the rest of the car.

If I can get it painted for $30, I'll take it to the shop. If not, I wanted to know if I need to use primer, sandpaper, etc. There's a chance I'll buy the valance in another color, so I'll probably have to do some sanding.

[KangamangusDriver]

yes, you need to sand, prime, paint, and apply a clear/top coat to prevent stone chipping. I believe there are rubberized paints/top coats to help prevent chipping.

May require mixing in with paint, which means you will need a spray gun.

Go to a autobody paint store and inquire there.

That is what I did to paint my lip, mirrors, skirts, and rear apron.

Good luck!