There can be a number of reasons why you want to re-paint your car. It may need repainting due to fading or damage. You might also just want it to be a new color. In any case, you need to know that painting a car takes more than just applying the paint itself to the surface.

Preparing the Car

Strip off the current paint job first. There are very mild ways of removing paint like a scouring pad or chemical stripping. These methods should only be used if the original paint is still in good condition, is not lacquer-based and is a lighter or similar color to the new paint. If any of these don't apply, you should strip the paint down to bare metal. Sanding can be the easiest way to do this. Use high speed rotary sander with a coarse disc or a pneumatic sander with sanding discs of about 36 to 80 grit. Make sure the windows are rolled up before using the sander to keep paint from getting into the car. Also, wear protective goggles, a face mask and protective clothing. Once the paint is stripped off, wash the entire car with soap and water. A degreasing solvent can work for any tough stains. Make sure the car is completely dry before you begin painting.

Painting

Cover all areas of the car that are not going to be painted; this definitely includes the windows and the wheels. Use tarp, towels, masking tape and/or anything else that will shield these surfaces. The car's surface must be primed with an aerosol primer. Primer that is already prepared in a spray can is easier than mixing it yourself, but make sure you know how much primer you need for the car, given how much surface area you're painting. Apply the primer in even strokes across the surface, keeping the spray perpendicular to the surface. Wait 15 to 30 minutes for the primer to dry. Urethane-based paint works best. Whether you're using a spray can of paint or a full can connected to a paint gun (the latter works much better if you're painting the whole car), apply each coat of paint in even strokes just like the primer. Wait 15 minutes in between each coat; you will need at least three coats. After applying the final coat, wait at least 90 minutes for the paint to dry. You must cover the paint with clear coat protectant, which is what gives the paint job its smooth, glossy finish. Apply three coats of clear coat to the paint, using the same even strokes and waiting 15 minutes in between each application. Wait 30 to 90 minutes for the clear coat to dry.

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