Are you tired of driving around with the same old boring color on your car? Why not change them with this Car Paint Job tips guide? you don’t have to blend in when you can stand out with a brand-new paint job done on your car. Changing the color of your car can be a fun and exciting way to give your ride a fresh new look. But, before you head to the paint store, there are a few things you need to know.
In this article, we’ll dive into the ins and outs of changing the color of your car. We’ll cover tips and tricks to make the process a breeze, give you an idea of how much it’ll cost, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions like: Can I do it myself? How long does it take? Will it void my warranty? And, what type of paint should I use? So, this article has got you covered to change your car’s color to match your personality or want to give it a little spruce up if that is what you’re looking for.
Car Paint Job: (Tips & Tricks for Changing the Color of Your Car)
Getting a paint job for your car is an excellent way to maintain its slick and clean look. Changing your car color requires that you choose a new color first. With the variety of colors and hues available on the market, you will be able to make flexible choices.Â
From paint to wrap options, there are several brands to pick from. In this article, we will cover the important details you need to be aware of when deciding to change your car color. Our goal is to help you give your car a new look with as little hassle as possible. Continue reading to learn more from this Car Paint Job tips & tricks for changing the color of your car guide.
Preparing Your Car For A Paint Job
1. Washing
Washing your car before painting is necessary for removing dust and grime. With a good scrub of your car crevice, your car will be better prepared to be painted. Washing your car will prevent dirt from being mixed with the paint when using the air pressure gun. You will have to wait until it is properly dried before moving on to the next step.
2. Sanding
You will need to smooth out the surface of your car with a thick 500-grit Scotch-Brite pad before painting it. With this, you will be able to prepare a suitable surface for carrying out the pain job. Using sandpaper with a grit of 320 or 220 can also give you a suitable surface for painting.
3. Rust Removal
Rust can harm your car surface and paint if it is allowed to spread. It should be removed by sanding it down or by spraying on a rust killer. The rust removing process usually takes a day or two before you can start painting. With the rust removed, the painting process will be a lot smoother.
4. Priming The Surface
Once the car has been well sanded, the next step is to apply two to three layers of primer. When priming, in addition to wearing a face mask, make sure the room you are in is sufficiently ventilated.
After the primer has dried, your car surface will need to be block sanded. Block sanding simply entails applying a new coat of primer that is a different color from the first one. With this final step, you will be able to find and correct imperfections.
Choosing The Right Paint And Equipment
In this section, we will go over the various tools and factors to be considered before carrying out a paint job.
1. Purpose of color change
The color you choose will either make you stand out or blend in. Overall, it depends on your purpose for wanting to change your car color. For example, if you want your car to look like a corporate vehicle, white or light color options will be a good pick. A light-colored automobile will make your logo easy to see while giving the car cooperate feel.
2. Air Compressors
When it comes to equipment, air compressors are a necessity. They are required for effectively completing painting jobs and aiding in operating other air equipment. Before painting, you will need to get some high-quality air compressors with at least a 60-gallon tank capacity. This will ensure that they function effectively and last for a long time.
3. Resale Consideration
If you plan on selling your car in the future, you will need to choose the color you wish to change to wisely. Demand for popular colors is substantially higher, this could result in a higher or lesser market price when you wish to sell your car. This depends on the color you choose.
4. Brushes
A brush is necessary for making initial preparations before the painting is started. You will find it easier to carry out simple cleaning tasks when you have the right brush sizes at hand. For professional and DIY paint treatments, brushes are a must-have.
5. Ribbons and Masking Fluid
Tapes are important for a variety of reasons while painting. Masking tapes will help you shield areas that don’t need to be painted, while pin-striping tape makes it simpler to make straight lines. This will make the paint job neater and more defined.
6. Paint Gun and cleaner
The paint gun is an important piece of equipment that makes applying paint easier. Without it, you will have to apply the paint manually. Alongside this equipment, you will also need a paint-gun cleaner. This cleaner will help you keep the paint gun in top-notch condition and ready to use at any time.
Applying the paint
After carrying out the preparation process we listed above, follow the steps below to complete your paint job.
- Using a side-ways sweeping motion, apply the paint coat evenly.
- Follow the recommended drying instructions of the paint manufacturer (we recommend letting it sit for 20 to 60 minutes).
- Sand the surfaces to get rid of any powdery buildup before applying your final layer.
- Using the same side-ways painting method, apply a clear coat of lacquer.
- While the clear coat is still wet, remove the masking tape, then allow the clear coat to dry according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Buff all painted surfaces to get a smooth finish by using circular motions.
Finishing touches
1. Adding a clear coat to protect the paint
This is one of the final steps of the paint job. Adding a clear coat over the painted surface of the finished job will add an extra layer of protection to your vehicle’s body.
2. Touching up any imperfections
This is the simple process of cutting and cleaning the edges to make the overall job cleaner. If you had completed any prior process in a rush, to get optimum results, this step will help you fine-tune those imperfections.
3. Maintaining your car’s new paint job
Now that all the painting and fine-tuning processes are completed, all you have to do is maintain the paint. Maintenance can come in various forms like avoiding scrubbing your car with sharp objects, driving carefully, and using car covers when you part your car outside for a long period.
Ultimate Paintjob Transformation Gives Car New Life Again
FAQ:
How much does it cost to change the color of a car?
You will need to spend between $1,000 and $5,000 to repaint your car. Wrapping your car will cost from $500 to $5,000, depending on your choice of color.
Can I change the color of my car myself or do I need to take it to a professional?
It’s recommended to let a professional paint your car. Without prior car painting knowledge, you’re likely to carry out a subpar job. In the end, you might still need the help of a professional to smooth out your mistake.
How long does it take to change the color of a car?
A good paint job can take up to three weeks, while a wrap job can be completed in as little as three days.
What is the process for changing the color of a car?
The process of changing your car color can be simplified into the following steps;
- Pick a new paint or wrap color
- Prepare your car surface for the color change
- Carry out the color change
- Complete the finishing touches
- Put safeguard/maintenance measures in place
Will changing the color of my car void the manufacturer’s warranty?
No, making modifications to your car color will not void any warranty you have on it.
What type of paint should I use to change the color of my car?
You have two options: a removable car wrap or paint, which is permanent. Your original car paint won’t sustain any damage if you choose to use car wraps.
Can I change the color of my car to any color I want?
Yes, you can change your car paint to any color of your choice. However, it is recommended that you consider the main reason for the change to make the best decision.
Is it difficult to match the color of my car if I want to touch up a few chips or scratches?
No, you can easily make small touch-ups to your car color yourself if you have the necessary tools. However, a professional will be able to make such corrections more accurately.
Will changing the color of my car affect its resale value?
Yes, your car’s resale value can be affected by the color you choose. This depends on various factors like your geographic location or general color-related vehicle trends.
Conclusion
Successfully changing your car color will give it the new look that you desire. With the tips we have highlighted in this article, changing your car color will be a walk in the park. Getting a paint job for your car is less complicated when you know what to do. By following the steps we discussed in this article, you will be able to complete your car paint revamp without issues.
Related Article:
How often Does Car AC Need to Be Recharged?
Tip On Car Wash And Car Wash Tip Calculator/Guide
Uchenna is a Radiographer and Auto parts mechanic who recently got his automotive diploma as an auto repair technician, and since then, has worked on fixing various car problems.
Working as just a radiographer, Uchenna didn’t just get all the fulfillment he desired, because he truly loved doing things tilted toward cars. As a kid, he would take apart his toy cars to see how they worked and would spend hours tinkering with his bike.
So, in 2017 he made the tough decision to become an auto mechanic. He threw himself into his studies and now loves every aspect of what he does.
He gets to work with his hands, solving problems and bringing cars back to life, and sharing his knowledge and easy quick-fix guide online are all part of what makes him feel fulfilled.
