(05 Nov 2014, 11:28 pm)Bus_User wrote I really do wonder what customers think of vehicles being repainted so frequently and the money being spent on pointless repaints like the one above. 

Perhaps repainting any remaining red Northern buses if indeed the repaint is to increase their sale value should be a higher priority like the renowns which still got the 'Northern' fleet names than buses that have only been repainted 2 years ago.

I doubt whether the average passenger notices the condition of a vehicle paint unless it is flaking or greatly discoloured or shows signs of vehicle damage. Few will recognise a particular bus unless it is uniquely liveried - so condition will not be judged (unless it is noticeably poor).
What is noticed is when a red double decker turns up on the TEN, and even worse (for confusion) is when an orange single decker arrives (as the X84/X85 routes diverge from the TEN at Corbridge - and some don't want to be on the wrong bus).

Tynedale has Mini Pointer Darts that have the corners scraped and bent due to contact with verges on the rural routes, but, as long as the bus turns up and continues to 'go' (ie isn't too late or breaks down) most passengers don't care about the paint finish - any bus is better than none.
Country dwellers are grateful for whatever bus service they get - unlike city dwellers who expect frequent and regular services that run to timetable.

Of course, a bus that rattles or is otherwise uncomfortable will  be noticed - especially on a long journey.