What Clear Coat to Use Over an Aerosol Basecoat

Most car colours today are basecoat and clear. The basecoat gives the colour, but it dries flat and is not tough enough on its own. If your paint code aerosol is a basecoat, you need to put a clear coat over it.

1K clear

1K (single pack) clear is ready to spray straight from the can. It suits small touch-ups, trim and parts that don't see much fuel, sun or wear. It is easy to use and there is nothing to mix or activate.

2K clear

2K clear has a hardener. It cures harder, holds its gloss longer and stands up much better to fuel, UV and washing. For panels, bumpers and anything on the outside of the car that you want to last, 2K is the better choice. 2K products contain isocyanates, so wear a proper respirator and spray in a well-ventilated area.

Read more in 1K vs 2K Clear Coat: Which Should You Use?

Getting a good result

• Let the basecoat flash off before you clear it. Check the can for the time.
• Apply two or three light, even coats of clear rather than one heavy coat.
• Spray in a warm, dry, dust-free spot and leave it to cure before polishing.
• Test on a hidden area or a spare panel first.

Not sure what you need? Tell us your paint code and the job, and we'll match the primer, colour and clear for you. Aerosols post Australia-wide for a flat $22. Call (03) 9396 8096.