5 Best Spray Paint for Cars in 2022

The other day when you were inspecting your beloved car in the garage, you noticed that the black paint looked somewhat dull.

It’s not a rare sight because car paint can fade when it is exposed to sunlight for long hours. The heat from the sun’s UV rays causes the car paint to heat up and break the chemical bonds. As the bonds break, oxygen passes through and comes into contact with the metal body. The metal then absorbs heat, which results in fading.

So, how can you revive the color?

You might have already thought about getting a spray paint from your local store, but we highly recommend you choose the best spray paint for cars. If you’re wondering where to find one, all you need to do is scroll down and read about our top five picks.  

So, let’s get started!

Best Car Spray Paint – Quick Summary

• Gloss Finish- Dupli-Color Perfect Match Automotive Paint

“This spray paint gives a smooth, glossy finish once it becomes dry.”

• Paint And Primer- Rust-Oleum Universal Enamel Spray Paint

“There’s no need to use a primer because this spray paint also works as one.”

• Non-slip Coating-  Performix Plasti Dip Multi-Purpose Rubber Coating Aerosol

“This particular spray paint prevents slipping when applied to a surface.”

• Versatile- Krylon Lacquer Spray Paint

“This is a versatile spray paint that works flawlessly on most surfaces.”

• Rust-protection- Dupli-Color Premium Acrylic Enamel Spray Paint

“When applied to metals, this spray paint prevents them from rusting.”

Comparison Chart for Top 5 Spray Paints For Cars

Spray Paint For Cars Reviews

1. Dupli-Color Perfect Match Automotive Paint – Best Color Match Spray Paint For Cars

If you’re looking for a glossy, color-matching spray paint, you can try out the Dupli-Color Perfect Match Automotive Paint.

This is a black lacquer paint that provides a glossy surface once it is applied on your car’s chassis. After application, it takes about 30 minutes for the paint to dry to touch.

With this spray can, you can do not only light touch-ups but also large touch-ups. Whatever you do, you can always expect the chassis or car accessories to have a smooth finish. It’s all possible thanks to the 360-degree adjustable nozzle!

Although this particular version is suitable for all cars, you’ll find other versions that are model-specific. Also, if you want to add more gloss and protection over the paint, you can use Perfect Match Clear Coat by the same brand.

Pros

• Provides greater coverage
• The spray paint dries fast
• It gives a glossy finish
• The adjustable nozzle lets you spray over wider areas
• The color matches exactly with the original paint color

Cons

• The spray can is small

Product Specialty

Dupli-Color Perfect Match Automotive Paint is a great option if you’re looking for a spray paint whose color matches exactly with that of your vehicle.

2. Rust-Oleum Universal Enamel Spray Paint – Best Automotive Spray Paint  

It’s alright if you don’t want to have a glossy finish on your car, rather a satin finish. If that’s the case, we have the Rust-Oleum Universal Enamel Spray Paint.

This one does not only serve as paint but also a primer. That means you don’t have to purchase a primer separately. It works the same way as a primer- letting the paint adhere to the metal surface and preventing it from peeling in humid conditions.

Once you apply the oil-based paint, it will dry within 30 minutes, leaving your car with a satin finish. At the same time your car will remain protected against rusting, fading, and chipping.

Apart from the metal chassis, you do have the option for using this spray paint on different materials, like wood, fiberglass, concrete, and plastic. Even if you need to paint your car accessories, you can do so with spray paint without a hitch.

Each can is capable of covering an area of up to 15 square feet. Depending on the area where you want to apply the paint, you can purchase the number of cans accordingly. There are other types of finish and a wide range of colors available to match the color of your vehicle.

Pros

• Provides a smooth satin finish
• Also works as a primer
• Can be used on different surfaces
• Dries fast within 30 minutes
• Different colors and finish types available

Cons

• The paint can cause a mess on the surface when the can is close to being empty

Product Specialty

Rust-Oleum Universal Enamel Spray Paint leaves a smooth satin finish when it dries. Besides metals, it can be used on different surfaces with perfect results.

3. Performix Plasti Dip Multi-Purpose Rubber Coating Aerosol – Best Rattle Can Spray Paint For Cars

Another professional spray paint for cars worth mentioning is this one by Performix.

The spray paint gives a matte black finish while preventing damage caused by moisture, acids, and corrosives. After application of this spray paint, you will be able to feel a non-slip, rubbery texture on your car’s surface. A couple of benefits of rubber coating are that your car will stay safe when it comes into contact with heat and electricity.  

Additionally, the rubber coating is proven to resist cracking at temperatures ranging between -30°F to 200°F. It will remain flexible regardless of when you used the paint.

Apart from applying the paint on your car, you can also use it for household projects. If you feel like removing the applied paint from a surface, you can do so without any hassle.

If you’re interested in knowing about this paint’s variations, we can tell that it is available in clear and red.

Pros

• Provides a non-slip surface
• Withstands weather elements
• The rubber coating doesn’t crack at high temperatures
• Can be used for different projects
• The paint peels off easily from most surfaces

Cons

• The paint accumulates at the nozzle after a couple of uses

Product Specialty

Performix Plasti Dip Multi-Purpose Rubber Coating Aerosol is an ideal choice if you want to provide maximum protection to your car. Other than that, you can use it on various surfaces without needing to purchase paint separately.

4. Krylon Lacquer Spray Paint – Best Gloss Black Spray Paint For Car

Here’s a high gloss spray paint you might want to have a look at- the Krylon Lacquer Spray Paint.

This lacquer paint not only provides a glossy finish but also creates a tough shell that resists moisture. For drying, it takes as less as 15 minutes. When applying the spray to your car’s chassis, you don’t have to worry about dripping paint. It allows you to spray on the surface evenly.

This particular spray paint isn’t limited to cars, but you can also use it on surfaces, like wood, glass, and ceramic.

Although the spray paint does its job well indoors and outdoors, it’s important you stay cautious because it is highly flammable. Plus, the vapor causes irritation on the skin, eyes, and respiratory system.

Furthermore, this paint has two other variations- clear and white.

Pros

• Can be used on different surfaces
• Dries in 15 minutes
• Creates a tough shell that resists moisture
• The paint does not drip
• Leaves the painted surface with a high gloss finish

Cons

• There can be little bubbles after application

Product Specialty

Krylon Lacquer Spray Paint leaves your car with a high gloss finish while protecting it from moisture. The spray paint has a fast drying time, and you can also use in on different surfaces.

5. Dupli-Color Premium Acrylic Enamel Spray Paint – Best Spray Can Paint For Cars

Last but not least, we have the Dupli-Color Premium Acrylic Enamel Spray Paint for your vehicle.

Like the one we have seen earlier, this acrylic enamel spray paint also works as a primer. So, if you want to apply a primer on your car, you don’t have to look for it elsewhere. Once applied, the paint will offer maximum protection against rust.

What’s interesting, you don’t need to sand any surface before application because the spray paint adheres well on different surfaces. Besides metals, you are free to apply the paint on wood, plastic, and masonry. In other words, you can use it for home projects. The paint takes about 25 minutes to dry.  

Lastly, you’ll find this spray paint in different variations, including flat black, matte clear, red, green, royal blue, and yellow.

Pros

• Also works as a primer
• Dries fast within 25 minutes
• Can be used on various surfaces
• Protects surfaces against rust
• It has different variations

Cons

• The surface needs to be lightly coated to avoid runs

Product Specialty

Dupli-Color Premium Acrylic Enamel Spray Paint gives a glossy finish when sprayed on different surfaces. It adheres to surfaces well even without sanding.

How To Choose Spray Paint For Cars?

Before you start shopping for the best automotive spray paint, you should know some of the factors that need to be considered. The factors are as follows.

Finish Type

Car spray paint has different types of finishes, namely matte, gloss, and satin.

Spray paints with a matte finish won’t reflect light, so they give a smooth, dull appearance. Those with a gloss finish reflect more light to give a shiny appearance. And those with a satin finish tend to be in between matte and gloss. This type of paint is almost matte with the exception that it reflects light slightly.

Paint Color

Car spray paints are available in a wide range of colors, like red, black, white, and grey.

If you want your car to reflect heat and remain visible at night, you can go for lighter colors. The most common light color for cars is white. But, if you want your car to look unique and be spotted easily, you can go for darker colors. The choice of color depends on personal preference.

Quality

The quality of the spray paint is also a crucial factor to consider. If the paint is of high quality, it should adhere well to the car’s surface, provide enough coverage, and also prevent damage by weather elements. Such paints tend to last longer than those whose contents are of low quality.

So, before you get your hands on automotive spray paint, make sure to read the labels carefully.

Drying Time

The time it takes for a car spray paint to dry varies. Some paints can take about 30 minutes while others take even less time. For a car paint to fully cure, it is recommended you wait at least 24 hours.

Versatility

If you intend to use the spray paint on other surfaces besides the chassis, you should look for versatility. Although a multi-purpose paint might not work that well compared to the one solely intended for cars, you will save costs.

Types Of Car Spray Paint

Car spray paints are of four types. They are-

1. Water-based Paint

Water-based paint has lower toxicity compared to other types of automotive spray paint. It dries fast, and results in a vibrant, smooth finish. To get the most out of water-based paints, the color should be mixed thoroughly and applied in thinner layers on the vehicle. 

2. Lacquer

Lacquer is a type of paint that is inexpensive, fast-drying, and provides a glossy finish.

However, lacquer has high toxicity. Its fumes can cause breathing difficulty, vision loss, and other health issues if you expose yourself to it for long periods. This is why it is recommended you take protective measures before working with this type of paint.

3. Acrylic Enamel

Acrylic enamel is a long-lasting paint that forms into a hard coating once dry. It is compatible with both aerosol and paint spray gun. Acrylic enamel paints can be single-stage or two-stage.

The only difference between the two stages is that the single-stage system does not require a clear topcoat after painting, whereas the two-stage system requires a clear topcoat. The latter is more common as it increases durability.

4. Acrylic Urethane

Acrylic urethane is the most expensive among all the other types of spray paint. Once the paint is applied, it creates a hard coating that lasts longer than acrylic enamel paints. It is also resistant to chipping and UV rays.

Although acrylic urethane provides a smooth finish, it is highly toxic. The fumes can cause respiratory infections and allergic reactions. So, you might want to hire a professional for handling this type of paint.

What Is The Difference Between Regular Spray Paint And Automotive Spray Paint?

While it is possible to paint your car using regular paint, you shouldn’t be surprised if it fades faster. This is one of the reasons why manufacturers label spray paint for specific purposes.

That being said, there are key differences between regular spray paint and automotive spray paint.

Regular spray paint or house paint is meant to be used indoors, which is why they aren’t made to withstand weather conditions, like rain and snow. Also, the thick consistency of regular spray paint causes it to dry slowly. When applied to a vehicle, house paint will fade and peel off within a short time.

On the other hand, automotive spray paint is meant for vehicles only. It has a thinner consistency which adds less weight to the vehicle for a faster speed. Also, it can withstand extreme weather conditions, including UV rays. Automotive spray paint sticks to the car body well and takes several years to fade.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What Kind Of Spray Paint Is Best For A Car?

Although expensive, urethane is the best type of spray paint that you can use on your car. It resists chipping, reflects UV rays, and provides a tough surface that lasts longer than acrylic enamel paints. But, due to its highly toxic nature, it is recommended you let a professional handle the painting job.

2. Can I Paint A Car With Spray Paint?

It is possible to paint a car with spray paint of matching color. Before doing so, it is recommended you wash the car, fill up any dents, and sand uneven surfaces for a smooth finish.

3. Will Spray Paint Last On A Car?

If properly maintained, a car’s spray paint can last up to 15 years.  

4. Can I Paint Over Existing Car Paint?

Unless the existing paint is peeling or cracking, you can paint over existing car paint for a smooth finish. It’s also worth noting that most car paints will require a primer before applying them over existing paint. If a primer is used then such paints will be able to hold up well.

5. Is Spray Can Paint Durable?

Not all spray paints are more durable than those that are oil-based.

Final Word

When it comes to giving a new life to your beloved car, you shouldn’t invest in just any spray paint. If it might seem to be working well at first, who knows when it will leave you disappointed?

Because of the wide options, it’s easy to miss out on the best spray paint for cars. To ensure you don’t, we have done the research, selected the top spray paints in the market, and then shared reviews here.  

While all of the above spray paints are known to do their job well, we still recommend you read the buying guide before purchasing.