How Auto Aerosol Automotive Touch Up Paint Works

Before starting any spray paint repairs outdoors, ensure the weather is warm and dry. Clean the area thoroughly to remove dirt, wax, and any contaminants, ensuring that the surface is completely dry.

Use coarse wet or dry sandpaper to remove rust, scratches, or peeling paint. As the damaged paint lifts away, switch to 180-320 grit sandpaper to smooth the surface further ready for priming. Any remaining imperfections could affect the final finish, so make sure to take time to prepare the areas by smoothing it out completely.

Once the surface is clean, dry, and even, use masking tape to protect adjacent panels from overspray. It’s best to cover a wider area than you think necessary, as spray paint can travel further than expected.

If the repair requires significant coverage, priming is essential. Select from our range of primers.

Shake the can vigorously for a few minutes before applying. Hold it about 10-12 inches from the repair surface area and spray in light, even strokes back and forth. Apply three additional coats, allowing 5-10 minutes of drying time between each. If you notice imperfections, use 600-grit wet or dry sandpaper to smooth them out before reapplying a couple of primer layers.

Follow the same spray technique as with the primer. Shake the can thoroughly for at least 30 seconds. Apply multiple thin, even coats rather than a single heavy layer, allowing 5-10 minutes between coats for the best finish.

Each coat should be smooth and uniform. If dust settles between coats, gently wipe it away with a clean cloth before proceeding with the next coat of paint.

For metallic or pearlescent paints, a clear lacquer is essential to achieve a glossy, professional-looking finish while protecting your vehicle’s paintwork. Wait approximately one hour after applying the base colour before spraying the clear coat.

Shake the can well and apply 4-5 light coats, allowing 10 minutes of drying time between layers. Instead of touching the panel directly, check dryness by touching the masked-off tape line. Rushing this step can result in a dull finish, texture issues, or a colour mismatch.

Before starting any repairs outdoors, ensure weather conditions are dry. Clean the damaged paintwork area thoroughly, removing any wax and dirt.

Use coarse wet or dry sandpaper to remove rust, scratches, or flaking paint.

As the damaged paint flakes away, switch to a 180-320 grit sandpaper to create a smooth, primer-ready surface.

If bare metal is exposed, carefully apply primer only to the affected area, avoiding surrounding paintwork. Allow at least 20 minutes for it to dry completely before starting to apply your paint colour.

Shake the pen with the cap on vigorously for 30 seconds to mix the paint. Test the colour on the test card provided before application.

Once you are ready to apply the touch up paint, remove the cap and hold the pen at a steady distance and apply light, even coats to the prepared surface, avoiding excessive buildup. Let each layer dry for 10-30 minutes before applying additional coats if needed.

Allow the paint to cure overnight before smoothing out any imperfections. Use fine-grit sandpaper (P1500-2000) and a sanding block to gently smooth the surface without removing the original clear coat.

Before beginning any repairs, ensure that the conditions outside are clear and dry. Clean the area requiring repair thoroughly, removing any dirt and wax, making sure the surface is completely dry.

Use coarse wet or dry sandpaper to remove rust, scratches, or flaking paint. As the old paint begins to lift, switch to 180-320 grit sandpaper to smooth the surface in preparation for your primer. Any remaining imperfections could affect the final finish, so take time to smooth the surface area.

If any bare metal is exposed, carefully apply primer to only that section, avoiding overlap onto surrounding paintwork. Allow it to dry for 5-10 minutes before moving on.

Shake the paint bottle thoroughly for at least 30 seconds to ensure even mixing. Before applying, test the colour on a sample card.

Use the applicator to apply the paint in thin, even layers, being careful not to extend beyond the damaged area. Allow 10-30 minutes for each coat to dry, applying additional thin layers of paint if necessary.

After letting the paint cure overnight, smooth the repaired section with P1500-2000 grit sandpaper or sanding block, being careful not to remove too much of the original clear coat.

In rare cases, our search tool may not display your car or motorcycle’s paint colour. If this happens, simply enter your vehicle details manually into our paint finder form, and we’ll identify the correct shade for you. You can go ahead and purchase your chosen Auto Aerosol paint product now, and we’ll confirm the exact colour match following your order.

Yes, we can help. If you need a colour match for your car, motorcycle, light aircraft, or boat but don’t have the colour code, simply provide us with a small panel or paint part, and the Auto Aerosol team will match it for you. Get in touch with us to discuss your automotive paint requirements.

Auto Aerosol has four different products for you to choose from, whether you are undertaking a motorcycle or car paint repair, we have an automotive aerosol or touch up paint product that is right for you.

Aerosol Paint
Achieve a seamless, professional finish on large surface repairs with our aerosol paint, designed for smooth and even application. Perfect for paintwork repairs to car bonnets and bumpers.

Touch Up Paint Pens
Easily repair minor scratches and chips with our precision touch up paint pens, offering a hassle free way to restore your vehicle’s appearance.

Touch Up Paint Bottles
Perfect for smaller motorcycle or car paintwork repairs, our touch up paint bottles come with a brush applicator, allowing for detailed and controlled repairs.

Large Paint Tins for Spray Guns
Ideal for extensive repairs, our large paint tins are compatible with spray guns, ensuring a flawless, high quality finish on full panels and larger areas, for a fraction of the price of a paint repair at the garage.