When it comes to protecting your car from the nicks, dings, and scratches that come from daily driving, nothing does the job quite like a clear coat of paint. A top coat also makes your car’s paint job more durable and protects against the sun’s UV rays, which can cause unsightly chipping and fading.
Read on to learn more about our favorite automotive top coats.
Our Editor’s Best Automotive Top Coats Reviews
- Ideal for large touch ups, vehicle accessories, motorcycles, etc.
- Apply over any factory applied finish or Duplicolor Perfect Match Premium Automotive Paint
- Features an adjustable EZ Touch 360 degree nozzle and a wide spray pattern for smooth, even coats
- Dry to touch in 30 Minutes / Handle in 1 Hour
- ✅ WHY CHOOSE POR-15 CHASSIS BLACK TOP COAT PAINT? – POR-15 is an industry standard for high performance protection against corrosion and rust. Our direct-to- metal coating is essential in all applications where there is a need to help preserve substrates susceptible to corrosion. POR-15 Top Coat provides excellent adhesion and best when used over POR-15 Rust Preventive Coating, works to provide a permanent barrier.
- ✅ LONG LASTING PROTECTION - POR-15 Top coat has exceptional long-term sheen and color retention, with a hammer tough finish that won’t crack or peel. It can be applied directly to metal substrates or previously painted surfaces without need for primer or undercoat. Formulated to form a robust barrier that sheds moisture.
- ✅ APPLICATION - All surfaces must be clean and free of all dirt, loose rust, oil, grease, wax, soap, loose paint & any other matter. Use 25-30 lbs (170Kpa-210pa) pressure for normal gloss. It dries to touch in 30-60 minutes. POR-15 Top Coat can take 3-4 days to reach maximum hardness, and longer in temperatures below 55°F (15°C).
- ✅ WHEN DO I NEED THIS? - POR-15 Top Coat is essential for that extra layer of durability and provides optimum protection against UV light that won’t fade over long term exposure.
- ✅ 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.
- ✅ TONS MORE CAR STORAGE FOR AN AFFORDABLE PRICE – Forget expensive hard shell roof boxes that are heavy and difficult to handle. Our superior quality roof top cargo carrier is super easy to install and gives you bags of extra secure storage space for a cheaper price. Built for endless miles of happy adventures with your family!
- ✅ INCLUDES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO PACK & GO – At Tool Guards, we want to make life easier and happier for our customers, which is why we’ve included everything you need to take extra luggage on the road in one pack. No need to buy extra car carriers rooftop attachments! Happy travels from Tool Guards.
- ✅ FITS ANY CAR - WITH OR WITHOUT ROOF RACK – Our car top carrier roof bag comes with 4 strong roof rack straps and 4 door straps, which allows you to easily secure it to any car. Just follow the simple instructions and off you go! Also included is a protective mat to prevent scratches and a carry bag so you can easily store away when not using it.
- ✅ 100% WATERPROOF & BUILT TO LAST – Made from durable military grade tarpaulin, our roof rack cargo carrier is designed to withstand all climates and weather conditions without breaking, moving or leaking. Our lockable zips have been developed and improved over years to ensure your luggage arrives just as you packed it – dry, safe and secure.
- ✅ CUSTOMER SERVICE - Please read the instructions provided with your purchase or watch the instruction video on the listing. If you have any questions or issues, please don't hesitate to send the seller a message through Amazon and we will respond within 24 hours.
- Advanced Formula 3-in-1. Our fortify quick coat is your all-in-one ceramic coating hydrophobic spray. Shine Armor Fortify Quick Coat ceramic car wax provides a waterless wash, coat, and shine, all-in-one convenient product.
- No Streaking, Smearing Or Scratching. Shine Armor Fortify Quick Coat premium formula ceramic car coating is a gentle and effective car polish for any vehicle! Get a clean, shiny finish without hurting your car's paint.
- Cuts Dirt, Grime & Grease. Our Quick Coat ceramic wax car sealant eliminates dirt, grime & grease instantly! Our signature 3-in-1 formula gives you a waterless car wash, coat and shine for a clean, showcase look.
- Safe For All Surfaces. Use this car wax spray-on automobiles, boats, motorbikes, RVs, four-wheelers and more! This spray wax is the perfect blend of surfactants and SiO2 ceramic-coating science.
- Superior Products. This means superior shine for your cars! Our ceramic quick coat also works as a sealer to give your vehicle a clear shield of protection while also providing a beautiful gloss. Our ceramic coat is the best hydrophobic car spray available!
- COMES WITH 3 FREE APPLICATOR PAD - OUR FORMULA - Tech Shine is a new waterborne moisture activated polymerized coating that bonds on contact with wet surfaces. Once fully cured, Tech Shine forms a crystal clear film that is extremely hydrophobic.
- SAVES TIME - Tech Shine’s water-based formula takes less than 5 minutes to apply during the final rinsing process, and less then 2 ounces can fully coat a mid-size car with an invisible protective shield. And while it lasts for months and doesn’t wash off, it is completely safe to use every time you choose to wash your vehicle. Each application fills in minor car washing swirls and adds more shine, depth, and durability than the finest carnauba waxes and paint sealants.
- SAFE AND EASY TO USE ON ALL EXTERIOR NON-POROUS SURFACES - Tech Shine is also one of the easiest ways to protect matte, plastic, and vinyl surfaces. Use our soft Hydrophilic Foam Wash Sponge and plenty of lubricating car wash soap to safely remove dirt without leaving scratches. The high gloss clear film will never build up or cause any unsightly residue on plastics or moldings.
- PROTECTS AGAINST HARSH WEATHER - Tech Shine protects glass more effectively than leading rain repellant products: a five-minute wet application during regular washes improves visibility by repelling rain, mud, sleet, and snow. Tech Shine makes water bead up and slide quickly off your windshield.
- BLACK CAR FINISH - Tech Shine gives your paint a deeper, darker, more durable finish in less time than conventional waxes and sealants, and this is especially true for hard-to-maintain black finishes. Tech Shine fills in and hides minor surface imperfections with repeat applications. Tech Shine will give your black finish the luster it deserves. **ECO-FRIENDLY** 100% MONEY BACK GUARANTEE
- PROFESSIONAL
- Ideal for large touch ups, vehicle accessories, motorcycles, etc.
- Apply over any factory applied finish or Duplicolor Perfect Match Premium Automotive Paint
- Features an adjustable EZ Touch 360 degree nozzle and a wide spray pattern for smooth, even coats
- Compatible with ford 351C Cleveland
- For engines bored +.030" over size or 4.030" Bore diameter
- Press or float rods. Lock rings included!
- Perfect spray paint for small damage repair jobs on existing semi gloss Hot Rod Back parts/surfaces
- The SprayMax hot rod black spray paint provides a long lasting and very durable finish
- 2K Hot Rod Topcoat is a high quality two component coating
- Automotive black paint provides strong chemical and weather resistance
- Black spray paint comes in an easy to use aerosol can. Wear appropriate safety equipment when using
- SELECT OVER SIZE NEEDED BEFORE PLACING IN CART
- Replacements for 1967-90 Chevy 350 pistons - H345DCP 30 in 4.030" Bore Size.
- For Engines bored +.030" Over size
- Flat Top Pistons Only, No Rings. Coated Shirts
- Compatible replacements for Ford 351W Windsor-series V-8
- Coated Skirt pistons. Pins included.
- Available in your choice of sizes!!
Best Automotive Top Coats Buying Guide
Before choosing the best automotive top coat you should consider following options:
1. Application: The first thing that you need to keep in mind is the method of application. There are two ways of applying a topcoat: immersion and spray.
An immersion topcoat is applied by immersing the part in the tank, which contains the coating. The part is then rotated continuously to ensure an even coating.
Spray topcoats are applied using a spray gun. It is important to read the instructions before choosing one of the two methods.
2. Durability: Durability refers to how long the finish will last. It is measured by the resistance to chemicals and abrasion.
The coating can be tested by immersing it in various chemicals. The chemicals include water, oils, acids and alkalis. The coating is then wiped and dried.
The extent of damage is then assessed.
The resistance of a topcoat to abrasion can be determined by rubbing it with sandpaper. It is important to read the labels to see what kind of exposure the finish can withstand.
3. Gloss: The gloss level of a coating determines its visual appeal. The paint can be assessed using a simple light reflectance meter.
It is important to note that the higher the gloss, the more reflection is involved, which can result in glare.
4. Environmental Impact: Environmental impact refers to the effect that the finish will have on the environment.
There are coatings, which are biodegradable, while some are not. There are also some coatings which contain compounds that are harmful to the environment.
The information can be obtained from the labels. The coating should not be disposed of in storm water drains.
5. Cost: The cost is always an important factor in the selection of a topcoat. The coating can be expensive if it has a high gloss and a long life span.
The cost also depends on factors such as the method of application and the materials used in the topcoat.
6. Availability: Availability is an important factor, especially if you are looking to paint a large number of parts.
There are different types of coatings available in the market, which can be used for different applications.
You can choose from a wide range of products, based on the application.
What else you should know about automotive top coats
1. What are the benefits of using a top coat on my vehicle?
There are several benefits of using a top coat on your vehicle. A top coat can help protect your paint from UV damage, scratches, and other environmental hazards. It can also make your vehicle’s paint job look new and shiny for longer.
2. How often should I apply a top coat to my vehicle?
A top coat should be applied every three to five years.
3. What are the best methods for applying a top coat to my vehicle?
The best methods for applying a top coat to your vehicle are to first wash and dry the vehicle, then sand the vehicle with a fine-grit sandpaper. Next, apply a primer to the vehicle, and finally paint the vehicle with a top coat.
4. What are the different types of top coats available for automotive use?
There are several different types of top coats available for automotive use, including clear coats, color coats, and primer coats. Clear coats are typically used to protect the paint job and provide a high-gloss finish. Color coats are used to add color to the vehicle, while primer coats are used to prepare the surface for painting.
5. What are some common problems that can occur when using a top coat on my vehicle?
One common problem that can occur when using a top coat on your vehicle is that the top coat can start to peel or chip off. This can be caused by a number of things, including improper preparation of the surface before applying the top coat, using a top coat that is not compatible with the paint or clear coat on your vehicle, or simply not allowing the top coat to properly cure before exposing it to the elements.
Conclusion
On the market, there are numerous best automotive top coats. Hopefully, the list of the top ten best automotive top coats will save you time researching and deciding on the best one for you.