Never buy just the paint. A professional-looking finish requires:
Buying car paint requires more than just picking a color; it involves matching your specific vehicle's code and choosing the right paint system for your project's needs. 1. Find Your Paint Code buy car paint
: Best if you need paint immediately. These shops can often scan your existing paint to match fading that occurred since the car was new. Never buy just the paint
: Look for a sticker or plate in the driver’s door jamb , under the hood (engine bay), in the glovebox , or inside the trunk . Find Your Paint Code : Best if you need paint immediately
: A single-component paint that dries quickly. It is ideal for small touch-ups but requires a clear coat for protection against the elements.
Quantities vary significantly based on vehicle size. According to estimates from Simi Valley CDJR : Vehicle Size Primer Needed Basecoat Needed 1–1.5 gallons 2–3 quarts Mid-size Sedan 1.5–2 gallons 3–4 quarts SUV / Truck 2–2.5 gallons 4–5 quarts 4. Where to Shop