Automobile Enthusiasts
Related: About this forumQuestion about type of paint for car exterior.
My 2009 Toyota Corolla has >290k miles on it. It's still getting the job done, and I'm hoping to hold out on replacing it until 1) car prices stabilize and 2) we are a little farther down the road in terms of EV technology and public charging infrastructure. In the meantime, the exterior paint has lots of areas where it is faded and crappy looking. It has crossed my mind to use it as a "canvas" for a cheerful self-inflicted paint job, with flowers, birds, butterflies, etc. covering up the sorry looking areas. Do any of you have suggestions on what kind of paint I should use? Do I need a primer? Is this a bad idea, and would it attract the wrong kind of attention?
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brush
(57,471 posts)They do a good job for a lot less than you'd expect, and they do it quickly.
bucolic_frolic
(46,973 posts)If the color is intact why not use some rubbing compound followed by a good quality wax?
If the paint's intact, you don't need a primer, but you have to degrease before new paint. It's a job for enamel paint, not acrylic.
gibraltar72
(7,629 posts)Go for it. Don't know what facilities you have. But I've done stuff with cars since I was 14. That was a long time ago. If you need specific tips I am available with ideas.
Mopar151
(10,177 posts)Lots of books, info on custom paint for cars Google the Eastwood Co.. For any brush graphics, lettering, striping, you want "One Shot" sign painter's enamel Works way better, in every way.
Only need primer if base coat is gone. Spraying top coat takes tools, equipment, dedicated space. Brushed.enamel (or urethane enamel) looks surprisingly good when properly prepped and applied. Tractor and Equipment paint is the easy way to get what you want.