Prepping Plastic Car Parts for Paint: A Complete Guide

Painting plastic car parts requires a slightly different approach than painting metal surfaces. Without proper preparation, paint can peel, chip, or fail to adhere entirely. Whether you’re working on bumpers, trim, or interior panels, the right prep steps make all the difference in achieving a professional finish.

First, thoroughly clean the part to remove dirt, grease, and road grime. A plastic-safe degreaser works best. Next, lightly sand the surface with fine-grit sandpaper—usually 400 to 600 grit—to create a texture the paint can grip. Be careful not to sand too aggressively, as plastic can be more delicate than metal.

After sanding, wipe the part down with a tack cloth to remove dust. Then apply a plastic adhesion promoter. This specialized primer helps paint bond securely to plastic surfaces, preventing peeling and flaking over time. Once the adhesion promoter has dried, apply a high-quality primer designed for automotive use, followed by your chosen color coat. Finally, seal your work with a durable clear coat to protect against UV rays, scratches, and weathering.

For every step of this process, Paint for Cars has you covered. They offer a full range of automotive paints, primers, adhesion promoters, and clear coats—plus all the supplies you need. With top-quality products and a wide selection of colors and finishes, Paint for Cars makes it easy for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike to get flawless results on plastic parts.

Get your project started today with Paint for Cars—your one-stop shop for automotive painting success.

Prepping Classic Cars for Paint: Restoration Tips That Matter

Restoring a classic car is a labor of love, and one of the most rewarding steps is the paint job. But a flawless finish starts long before the first coat goes on. Proper prep is key—and Paint for Cars has everything you need to do it right.

1. Start with a Clean Slate
Before you even think about paint, strip off the old finish. Use chemical strippers, sanding, or media blasting to remove paint, rust, and filler. A clean surface ensures your new paint adheres properly and looks smooth.

2. Address Rust and Bodywork
Fix dents, weld panels if needed, and treat all signs of rust. Skipping this step will lead to bubbling and peeling down the road. Paint for Cars offers rust treatments and body fillers to help restore structural integrity.

3. Sand, Then Sand Again
Block sanding helps even out surfaces. Start with a coarse grit and work your way up to finer grits. A smooth, uniform surface is essential for a professional finish.

4. Apply Quality Primer
Primer seals the surface, fills minor imperfections, and provides a great base for paint. Use a primer designed for your car’s surface—metal, fiberglass, or plastic.

5. Use the Right Tools and Paint
From spray guns to automotive-grade paints, having the right products makes all the difference. Paint for Cars supplies everything from primers to topcoats in a wide range of colors and finishes.

Whether you’re restoring a vintage beauty or a muscle car, Paint for Cars has the supplies, quality, and expert support to help you get a showroom-quality finish.