Brand new cars come off the car lot gleaming like mirrors, especially those with a metallic finish. Over time, the finish becomes dulled and worn by weather and driving dust and debris. You could always take your car in for a new paint job to restore the original shine and sparkle, but it will cost you. You can save yourself the costs of the labor by painting your car on your own, instead of taking it to the body shop. You'll need to learn the proper technique if you want professional results.
Wash your car thoroughly with car wash detergent and a brush. Your car will have at least some dust on it, even if you have recently washed it. Dust will interfere with the paint bonding to the body.
Use a wax remover or degreaser to eliminate any debris that is not washed away with the normal detergent. Rinse it off with a hose when done.
Sand any bumpy or rough spots with a loose grit sandpaper. Sand down any rust spots or bubbles in the paint, as well.
Fill any dimples, holes or dings with auto body putty. Smooth the puttied spots with a putty knife, and allow the putty to dry, according to the product label.
Use fine grit sandpaper to smooth out any putty repairs and marks left by the loose grit sandpaper. Sand until the entire surface of the car is completely smooth.
Use masking tape to cover any areas of the car that will not be painted. These include trim, windows, door handles, etc.
Protect yourself from paint and primer fumes. Wear painter's coveralls, safety goggles, a painter's mask and latex gloves.
Use a spray primer to cover your vehicle completely and allow it to dry. The primer will allow your paint to stick to the vehicle's body.
Sand down any drip marks or runs with fine grit sandpaper. Check the vehicle over thoroughly, as there are bound to be a few drips from the painting.
Use a urethane-based metallic spray paint to paint the first coat on your vehicle. Allow it to dry for about 15 minutes. Use fine grit sandpaper again to smooth any drips.
Apply a second coat of the metallic spray paint, and allow it to dry for about 90 minutes.
Be careful not to allow for any drips with the final paint application.
Apply three coats of clear coat the same way that you applied your primer and paint. Allow the clear coat to dry for 15 minutes between each application, and for 90 minutes following the last application.
