The right high temperature paint is durable, non-toxic and resistant to rust, wear and tear, chemical staining, heat and water and can withstand high temperatures and wear and tear associated with automotive projects. We searched for and tested several top-rated paints, and here are the best ones for most DIYers.
Read on for more information on the best automotive high temperature paints.
Our Editor’s Best Automotive High Temperature Paint Reviews
- Ideal for use on automotive parts and surfaces subject to intermittent high heat up to 2000°F
- Tough enamel features Stops Rust formula to prevent corrosion and rust with ultimate protection
- Dries to touch in 30 minutes, covers up to 10 sq. ft. per can
- Durable, long lasting coating protects against grease, oil, gas, salt, rust, humidity and other solvents
- Creates a smooth, flat protective finish to renew the look of your car or truck
- Indoor/outdoor
- Rich, semi-gloss sheen
- Superior color and sheen retention after repeated heating
- Do not use in areas directly exposed to flames (e.g., inside of grills or fireplaces)
- 12 oz. Spray
- HIGH TEMP PAINT – VHT High Temperature Plastic Spray Paint is formulated for high-heat applications on plastic and withstands temperatures up to 200 °F (93 °C).
- WILL NOT FLAKE OR PEEL - This VHT spray paint adheres directly to automotive grade plastics without the need for sanding or a plastic adhesion promoter. It’s resistant to oil and other automotive fluids and will not flake, chip or peel.
- FAST DRYING – Featuring an easy-to-use spray nozzle, this automotive paint ensures maximum coverage for a long-lasting finish. It’s dry to the touch in 30 minutes and can be handled in 1 hour. Heat cycle curing is not required.
- IDEAL USES – VHT high temp spray paint is ideal for painting engine covers and shroud components and can be used on interior and exterior plastics.
- VHT PAINT – VHT provides extreme heat resistance and race inspired coatings for vehicle enthusiasts looking for ultimate protection and performance.
- Flame proof coating extends life of high heat surfaces
- Matte finish ceramic silicone base widely used on automotive exhaust
- Best when used with primer color paint and clear coat process
- Withstands temperatures up to 2000 degrees when cured properly
- ✅ WHY CHOOSE POR-15 HIGH TEMPERATURE PAINT? – POR-15 High Temp paint is capable of withstanding extreme temperatures up to 1200°F / 648.8°C and will resist cracking, chipping, and peeling.
- ✅ TOUGH & DURABLE - Renew and protect metal surfaces subject to extreme heat. Our high temperature paint provides a tough corrosion resistant finish that protects against weather, salt, and moisture.
- ✅ APPLICATION - All surfaces must be clean and free of all dirt, loose rust, oil, grease, wax, soap, loose paint & any other matter. Paint all bare areas with two coats. Glossy surfaces should be roughened with 320 grit sandpaper before recoating. Allow POR-15 High Temp Coating to cure for 24 hours on the surface before temperature is raised above 300°F for full cure.
- ✅ WHEN DO I NEED THIS? - POR-15 Heat Resistant Paint is the most uniform heat-resistant coating available anywhere and will maintain rich, brilliant colors without burning off or discoloring. Can be used on all cars, domestic or foreign. Meets or exceeds properties and requirements of MIL-C-13370.
- ✅ OUR SATISFACTION COMMITMENT – At POR-15 we strive to bring the ultimate in rust prevention. Known for the unbeatable 3-step stop rust system, POR-15 is trusted by DIY & Professionals. We are committed to innovation, quality control, and excellent customer service
- Hycote VHT Paints are designed to stand very high temperatures on areas such as exhausts, brake part and under bonnet parts
- Hycote’s extreme heat paints are high quality, high temperature paints that are resistant to both petrol and oils.
- Achieve an instant finish with self priming properties
- Perfect for engines, exhausts, and other high temperature automotive parts
- Benefit directly from the latest coating technologies with products tested at Hycote’s state of the art technical research centre
- 5X TOUGHER: This 1K professional grade paint uses advanced ceramic technology that withstands temperatures up to 2000°F. Once fully cured it provides superior protection from heat, oil, and other automotive fluids.
- HIGH HEAT APPROVED: RAPTOR Flameproof is ideal for use on surfaces painted with Flameproof paint, such as exhaust manifolds, headers, exhaust systems, and other surfaces that require protection from very high heat.
- FIND YOUR PERFECT MATCH: This paint is available in a variety of different colors including a satin clear coat, a flat black, and a flat red. Suitable for use on all types of painted metals including steel and alloys.
- EASY TO USE: This product is easy to use and dries fast to give an attractive, smooth finish that will not blister, flake, crack, or peel. The the spray nozzle design has anti-clog technology allowing for ease of use and steady application.
- U-POL POWER & RAPTOR TOUGH: U-POL & RAPTOR are World leaders in automotive refinishing with a wide range of comprehensive products specializing in driving surface perfection including fillers, coatings, aerosols, adhesives, & truck-bed liners.
- 5X TOUGHER: When this RAPTOR primer is fully cured and used in combination with RAPTOR Flameproof, it provides a finish which is 5x tougher than traditional lacquers with superior protection from heat, oil and other automotive fluids.
- HIGH HEAT APPROVED: This 1K professional grade Primer uses advanced ceramic technology that withstands temperatures up to 2000°F and is suitable for use on all types of metals including steel and alloys.
- PRO TIP: RAPTOR Flameproof primer is best when used before the application of RAPTOR Flameproof. Ideal for use on exhaust manifolds, headers, exhaust systems, and other surfaces that require protection from very high heat.
- EASY TO USE: This primer is easy to use and dries fast with strong adhesion while the spray nozzle design has anti-clog technology allowing for ease of use and steady application.
- U-POL POWER & RAPTOR TOUGH: U-POL & RAPTOR are World leaders in automotive refinishing with a wide range of comprehensive products specializing in driving surface perfection including fillers, coatings, aerosols, adhesives, & truck-bed liners.
- HIGH QUALITY PERMANENT MARKER: Engineered for high temperature resistance; with PrismaLock technology, this marker performs reliably in extreme temperatures up to 1,800 F (982 C) and maximum mark readability (no color) of 2,200 F (1,204 C).
- FAST-DRYING AND VIBRANT COLOR: Fast-drying paint, reduces work downtime; rich, bold color stands out on surfaces for clear visibility and easy identification.
- CONVENIENT: Easy-to-grip clip-cap allows for convenient pocket storage.
- VERSATILE SURFACE COMPATIBILITY: Used in heat treating, annealing, metal production, metal fabrication, welding, and glass production; works effortlessly on metal, glass, and ceramics.
- MADE IN USA: Made in the USA with xylene-free paint to minimize health risks and ensure safer use in industrial environments.
- VHT HIGH HEAT PAINT – VHT 550° Engine Enamel features a unique blend of urethane & ceramic resins for max heat resistance; It produces a long-lasting finish for engines, engine accessories or wherever a durable heat or chemical-resistant finish is needed
- SPECIALLY FORMULATED – VHT high heat engine paint is specially formulated to withstand corrosion, rust, salt spray, chemicals and additives of today’s gasoline blends and degreasers
- APPLICATIONS – This VHT paint is ideal for headers, engine blocks, starters, brackets, water pumps, valve covers, transmissions, and differential covers. It dries to the touch in 1 hour and dries thoroughly overnight
- WIDE RANGE OF COLORS – With VHT high heat spray paint for engines you get true versatile restoration or customization options in flat, satin & gloss finishes, available in 31 colors: 15 OEM colors, 12 Universal and 4 bright metallics, plus primer & clear
- VHT – VHT provides extreme heat resistance and race inspired coatings for vehicle enthusiasts looking for ultimate protection and performance
Best Automotive High Temperature Paint Buying Guide
Before choosing the best automotive high temperature paint you should consider following options:
1. Impact resistance: The most important characteristic of high temperature paint is its ability to withstand impact. The paint must withstand high impact so that it does not chip off and cause accidents.
2. Thermal conductivity: The thermal conductivity of the paint is important because it helps in the dissipation of heat. The paint must have a high thermal conductivity so that it can absorb and dissipate heat at a faster rate.
3. Brittle resistance: Brittle resistance is also an important characteristic of high temperature paint. The paint must have a good resistance to brittleness so that it does not break or chip off easily.
4. Corrosion resistance: Corrosion resistance is another important characteristic of high temperature paint. The paint must have a good resistance to corrosion so that it does not corrode easily.
5. Smoothness: The smoothness of the paint is also important. The paint must have a smooth finish so that the surface does not get scratched easily.
6. Adhesion: The adhesion of the paint is also very important. The paint must have a good adhesion so that it does not peel off easily.
7. Lifespan: The lifespan of the paint is also an important factor to consider. The paint must have a long lifespan so that it can be used for a long period of time.
8. Environment: The environment you intend to use the paint in is also an important factor to consider. High heat environments require paints with different characteristics than cold environments.
What else you should know about automotive high temperature paint
1. What are the benefits of using automotive high temperature paint?
There are many benefits of using automotive high temperature paint, including its ability to resist high temperatures, its durability, and its ability to protect against rust and corrosion.
2. What is the best way to apply automotive high temperature paint?
Preparation is key when applying automotive high temperature paint. The surface must be clean, dry, and free of any grease or oil. Once the surface is prepped, the paint can be applied with a brush, roller, or spray gun.
3. How long does automotive high temperature paint last?
High-temperature automotive paint can last for many years if it is properly applied and maintained.
4. What is the best automotive high temperature paint to use?
There are a few different types of automotive high temperature paint that you can use. Some of the best options include VHT paint, POR-15 paint, and Rust-Oleum paint.
5. What are the most common problems with automotive high temperature paint?
The most common problems with automotive high temperature paint are that it can be difficult to apply evenly, it can bubble and peel if not applied correctly, and it can fade over time.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best automotive high temperature paint. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best automotive high temperature paint will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.