How to Paint Your Car on a Budget

If you want to cover your car’s scratches and dents, but you don’t have a lot of money to spend at a body shop, you may wonder how to paint your car on a budget. Or maybe you want to get your car ready for the drag strip, but you already invested most of your money in the engine and wheels

While a professional paint job is your best option, you may have to paint the car yourself–and on a very limited budget. But a cheap paint job doesn’t have to mean a bad paint job. Do your homework and spend time on preparations before you start painting, and even your budget paint job can look good.

Materials and Supplies

• Pen and paper
• Internet and phone book
• Automotive paint
• Painter’s tape
• Newspaper
• Sandpaper
• Paintbrush or roller
• Spray-paint equipment, if needed
• Semi-gloss black paint
• Knife or razor blade
• Car detailing products

General Instructions

1. Do your homework. If you’re seriously thinking about painting your own car, do your homework. Search the Internet for good deals and discounts. Grab the phone book and call around. Look for good automotive paint. Tremclad or Duplicolor are two possible choices. You can find inexpensive quality paint online or at your local auto supply store. After you choose your paint type and color, gather the other supplies mentioned above.
2. Prep your car. Prep your car before you start painting it. Repair any damage to your car by fixing the dents and dings yourself. Remove any rust on the car. Sand the car, or the area you intend to paint, to help the paint adhere to the car’s surface. Wash the car after you sand it. Cover the glass, rubber, metal, and other exposed areas with newspaper and painter’s tape. If you have the time and storage space, you may want to disassemble the car by removing bumpers, lights, trim, and mirrors.
3. Paint your car. Depending on your paint choice, you can either spray-paint the car or apply the paint with a paintbrush or roller. A roller is often the best option for a smooth, even paint coat. Paint the entire car, or just the area that needs painting, and allow the paint to dry completely. Apply a second paint coat, if needed. Allow your car to dry for two or three days before you expose it to wind or rain.
4. Detail your car. If you spray-paint the car, there will probably be overspray on the fender wells and undercarriage, and behind the grille. Use semi-gloss black paint to black out the overspray. Use a knife or razor to remove overspray from the glass and trim. Detail your car and polish chrome bumpers to give your car a brilliant, finished look.

References

Dulcich, Steve. “How to Paint Your Car at Home.” Car Craft Magazine: February 2009.

Freiburger, David. “30 Ways To Make Budget Paint Look Great.” Car Craft Magazine: April 2009. 

“How to Paint a Car on a Budget: a Step by Step Guide.” CarsDirect. Accessed August 15, 2010.