News & Advice

Before painting a car, wipe it down properly to ensure that the surface is clean and free from any contaminants that could affect paint adhesion and finish quality.

The following steps and materials will help you prepare the car surface for painting…

1. Soap and Water Wash – Start with a thorough wash using automotive soap and water to remove surface dirt, dust, and grime. This initial wash is for removing the bulk of the dirt.
2. Degreasing – After the car is dry from the initial wash, use a degreaser or a pre-paint cleaner to remove any oil, grease, or wax that might still be on the surface. These substances can prevent paint from adhering properly.
3. Surface Cleaning with Solvent – Once the car is free from grease and wax, wipe down the surface with a solvent-based cleaner. Products specifically designed for pre-paint prep or a panel wipe will remove any remaining contaminants, including silicone, which can cause fish eyes in the paint.
4. Tack Cloth – After the solvent has dried, go over the car with a tack cloth. Tack cloths are sticky cloths designed to pick up and hold onto the smallest dust particles. Wipe lightly without applying too much pressure to avoid leaving any residue from the cloth on the car.
5. Final Inspection – Before you start painting, do a final inspection of the car’s surface in good lighting to ensure that it’s completely clean and free from any particles or residues. Any imperfections not addressed before painting are likely to be magnified once the paint is applied.
6. Considerations for Specific Areas – Be mindful of areas like edges, trim, and crevices where dirt and contaminants can hide. These areas may require extra attention during cleaning to ensure they are fully prepped for painting.

Work in a clean, dust-free environment as much as possible to prevent airborne particles from settling on the surface during the painting process. Properly wiping down and preparing the car before painting is a critical step in achieving a professional-quality finish.