Maybe $20.00 production cost. THEN: it's got to be put in a wrapper, wrapper needs part number label, unitized item goes to BIG warehouse, then to smaller regional warehouse, stays on shelf a while, sent to local dealer, then sold to customer. No worries that it's the wrong color, just "paint to match" (which simplifies inventory issues!).
IF sent to a body shop for color . . . many colors of paint are over $100.00/quart, plus "thinner", plus painter's time to scuff and prep item, then spray it. Let it flash-off and spray again. Add clearcoat top coats (MORE expense). All paint work in an approved spray booth, which has it's own maintenance costs.
Then find tech for installation on vehicle. Minimum labor charge might be 1/2 hour at $135USD shop rate.
On the other hand, get the part from an online dealer with the best price AND free shipping. Go to auto supply for aerosol cans of cleaner, primer, touch-up paint can, Scotchbrite, tack cloth package. Then DIY. But you're still close to $200 USD anyway!
Default Mode -- leave it off until it's warmer weather. Trek to salvage yards (a vacation day at work?). Hopefully you can find the correct color!
CBODY67
