Types of Automotive Paint: Which Is Best for Your Car?
There is no single automotive paint system that is best for every repair. The right choice depends on the vehicle, substrate, existing finish, repair size, desired appearance and the coating manufacturer's system.
Solid, Metallic, Pearl and Matte Finishes
Solid colours are generally straightforward to identify and repair. Metallic and pearlescent finishes contain effect pigments that can make colour matching and blending more demanding. Matte finishes require a different approach because polishing can change the sheen.
Choose Paint for the Repair
Small chips and scratches may only need a colour-matched touch-up product. Larger panel repairs may require primer, colour or basecoat and clear coat, depending on the coating system. Always use products designed to work together.
Automotive Paint Chemistry
Automotive coatings vary significantly in chemistry, application and safety requirements. Older terminology can be confusing, so the product's current technical instructions should take priority over generic descriptions. Never mix coatings, thinners or hardeners unless the manufacturer specifies that they are compatible.
How to Choose
Start with the vehicle paint code, identify the existing finish and decide whether the repair is a small touch-up or a larger refinish. Our newer guide on matching automotive paint to the repair explains this decision in more detail.
For small repairs, explore our touch-up paint pen guide.