The Main Types of Best Paints for Cars

1. Water-based paints

Water-based paints involve a small amount of solvent used in the process of adhering to the car. They dry faster and are not as toxic to work with as solvent-based paints. You don't need to apply more coats of water-based paint, as you may think. Besides, the water acts as a dissipates and carrier once the paint is applied; therefore, you won't get as many toxic chemicals off-gassing after the paint is cured.

2. Single-stage paints

The single-stage paints combine the clear coat and basecoat in one. There is no need for an activator. They are easier to lay down on a car because they simplify the process itself; however, there is a trade-off. Single paints are much more susceptible to premature breakdown. You might need to use a primer, but multiple clear coat layers do not protect the topcoat layers well. Instead, stack up layers on layers, single-stage paints join them into fewer.

3. Spray paint

This type of paint for cars is one of the inexpensive solutions. Spray paint is the shortcut to paying a lot of money for a factory-finish paint job. Compared to other professional masterpieces, spray paint wouldn't stand a chance and will eventually wear off. However, spray paint is best for cars that are not necessarily displayed in any automotive shows in their lifetime.

4. Solvent-based paint

Most people usually think about solvent-based paints the moment the automotive paint is mentioned. Act as a carrying agent and usually bring the paint molecules to the car's surface. However, in these solvents, you need to know that solvent-based paints have more toxic chemicals, which can be dangerous when inhaled. Furthermore, these types of paint can have enamel, lacquer, or urethane as a basis, each with pros and cons. Conversely, most solvent-based paints consume more time to cure than water-based paints.

5. Part-specific paint

You might want to highlight a certain feature or enhance the overall look of that area instead of painting the whole vehicle. You can use part-specific paints for things such as wheels, engine blocks, brake calipers, and another area that will take paint. Furthermore, many engine-specific paints are high-heat; therefore, they won't flake and peel off because of the high temperatures an engine block emits.

6. Two-stage paint

These paints are better at weathering tough conditions than single-stage paints. On top of the primer coat, you will find anywhere from 4-5 topcoat layers, which will sit 3 or 4 layers of clear coat. Peeling off all those layers takes much more effort than all the layers found in single-stage paints. However, two-stage paints take almost twice as much time to lay down on a car because they involve many steps. An activator is needed for two-stage paints.

7. Plasti dip paint

Pasti dip is an inexpensive alternative to regular automotive paints. With sufficient coats, Plasti dip can weather prolonged use fairly well, depending on where on the car it is applied. Nonetheless, too much wear and tear can cause the Plasti dip to worsen prematurely, requiring removal and reapplication. Plastic dip cannot, therefore, compete with the high gloss finishes of exceptional paints.

Factors to Consider When Buying the Best Spray Paint for Cars

1. Painting space

When shopping for the best spray paint for cars, consider the painting space, especially if you paint your vehicle yourself. Temporary paint booths usually work and professional setups; however, remember the process as you paint. For instance, pulling your car into your one or two-car garage and then proceeding to lay down some paint will create an entire lot of problems for you very quickly.

2. Application pattern

A spray paint helps to apply a clear coat which is convenient and pattern of spray. The idea is that using spray paint applies coating more equally than a paintbrush. You can break that down more by finding one that is best at applying an even coat. Consider whether the spray paint comes with hosed attachments to spray the paint with precision or the coating is just a regular spray can.

3. Paint Preparation

Ensure you understand the painting process from start to finish before buying the spray paint. By understanding, you can prepare mentally and acquire the needed materials not to have a last-minute rush to the store. Furthermore, paint preparation doesn't stop at supplies either; you have to also sand, smoothing, and cleaning the surface of your vehicle.

4. Application factors

It would be best if you considered how the paint would interact with the environment while spraying it. You will want a controlled setting as possible, at least inside a garage and out of the dust, sunlight, and rain. Many of these spray paint come with health warnings because of the chemicals used. Match the clear paint to the climate you live in. Ensure that it is not prone to bubble up because of ambient humidity. If the place you are working from is very dusty, get something fast-drying.

5. Primer

Before buying the best spray paint for cars, consider whether you need a primer coat. Most projects usually begin with a prime coat. You will have a better finish if you use a primer that seals too (e.g., KILZ) before applying the coat. Your car will appear satin-like instead of glossy. However, you should note that a few finishes don't require a prime and base coat and apply directly.

6. Brands

There numerous spray paint brands on the market. Krylon and Rust-Oleum are the most popular, cost-effective colors, money value, and application brands. Other comparable choices are Montana, Valspar, Dupli-color, and Seymour.

7. Price

Although this is a consideration that you should keep in mind, we don't recommend using it as a primary means of selecting a car paint. Since we are talking about your vehicle's appearance, you need to spend money to ensure you get the right spray paint. Cheap spray paint is usually thinner, requiring more coats, is slower to dry, or may even drip. On the other hand, the most expensive spray paint is not always the best for your particular application, project, or material. If you have narrowed your option down to several different products, and one costs less than the other, then save yourself some dollars.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about the Best Spray Paint for Cars

1. Do I need a spray gun to apply automotive paint?

Yes, it is either you have an automotive paint gun, or you can opt to buy an automotive paint equipped with a ready-to-use spray can. You cannot apply automotive paint with a roller or brush since the finish will not be smooth and pristine.

2. How long can it take me to paint my car?

Professional body shops usually complete a car paint job in 3-7 days. If you have never painted a vehicle before, it will likely take you longer than seven days to do the job.

3. Is it legal to paint my car a different color?

It will depend on the state's laws; some states allow you to paint your car even though your car's original color is listed on the most official document about the vehicle. However, you must not change the identification number of a vehicle (VIN).

4. Do I have to remove the paint from my car before applying the new paint?

Some paints can perfectly adhere to other paints and finishes. So, you should check the requirements of the paint before painting your car. However, if you want a professional-looking paint job, we recommend removing the old lacquer and paint off your vehicle before applying the new paint.