Factory paint is superior because it is applied by precision robotics in sterile, dust-free environments and baked at extreme temperatures. This creates a highly durable, flawlessly bonded finish that resists UV rays and harsh elements. Repair shops cannot replicate these intense baking temperatures without melting the car's interior and electronics.
Factory paint has the best strength and adhesion, because factory painted topcoat is cured at a higher temperature. In factory the curing temp is in the range of 350F. Conversely, aftermarket paint is cured at most in the range of 150F.
The best quality paints on the market are defined by their high levels of titanium dioxide (for hiding power) and premium acrylic binders (for durability). Leading professional-grade brands include Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams.
Expensive paints contain more pigment and binders that provide more coverage (meaning you need fewer coats). In addition, many high-quality paints are fade-resistant, meaning the color will last longer, even in rooms that get lots of direct sunlight.
So, how long does a car paint job last? The paint on most vehicles today will remain intact for 10 to 15 years. However, a paint job lasts far less on vintage models, so that's important to keep in mind.
The hardest car colors to sell are polarizing, niche shades like gold, purple, brown, and pink. While they may not always have the absolute lowest resale value, they take significantly longer to sell because they appeal to a much smaller pool of buyers.
The $3000 rule in automotive ownership refers to two main financial benchmarks: when deciding to replace an aging vehicle and how to budget for a used car down payment.
Commercial painting contractors generally purchase Benjamin Moore and Sherwin-Williams paints in 2-gallon cans, which brings cost savings to clients. Each brand charges roughly the same amount for their paint, including their top-quality premium paint.
Both paint brands are excellent, but they excel in different areas: Sherwin-Williams is generally favored by professionals for its durability, smooth application, and longevity, while Behr is the top choice for DIYers due to its budget-friendly price and convenient availability at The Home Depot.
The best cheap paints balance affordability ($15–$30 per gallon) with solid coverage and washability. Top budget-friendly options include Behr Premium Plus at Home Depot for durable, all-around room painting, and Valspar Signature at Lowe's for great stain resistance. For strictly basic refreshes, Glidden Spred is a highly capable budget pick.
1. Behr. Behr is a favorite among DIY homeowners due to its availability at Home Depot and its reliable performance. Behr's Premium Plus and Marquee lines are praised for their strong coverage and reasonable price point.
There is no single "number one" paint brand, as the top pick depends on whether you prioritize professional quality, overall sales, or ease of purchase. The three leading brands in the US excel in different categories:
Checking paint quality involves assessing the paint’s consistency, coverage, and durability. To determine if paint is high-quality, evaluate its viscosity (it should feel creamy, not watery), check its hiding power by applying it to a contrast card, and ensure a smooth, uniform finish upon drying.
Black and other dark-colored cars are widely considered the hardest to keep clean, and there's a reason for that perception. Dust, pollen, water spots, soap residue, and light scratches are all, for the most part, light-colored contaminants.
Yes, you can absolutely paint over existing paint, provided the old surface is clean, dry, and structurally sound. Proper surface preparation—such as cleaning off dirt or grease, lightly sanding glossy finishes, and using the right primer—is the key to a long-lasting, smooth finish.
Red is universally considered the hardest paint color to cover. Vibrant red pigments are highly transparent and inherently prone to bleeding through subsequent layers. Other notoriously difficult colors to cover include black, dark blue, dark green, and bright yellow.
Neither store is universally "better"; the right choice depends on the specific product lines you prefer. Both retailers carry top-tier options, but they excel in different formulations.
If you're budget-conscious and want paint that's easy to pick up at your local Home Depot, Behr is an excellent option that delivers reliable quality. It's ideal for rental property updates, quick refreshes, and DIY weekend projects.
No, the Sherwin-Williams paint sold at Lowe's is not the same quality as the paint sold at physical Sherwin-Williams retail stores. While manufactured by the same company, they feature different chemical formulations and are produced in different “good, better, best” tiers.
Behr offers a balanced, affordable option for DIYers, while PPG Paints provides solid solutions at a mid-range price. Ultimately, selecting the right brand ensures a beautiful, long-lasting finish for your project.
There isn't a single "crappiest" car, but automotive journalists and enthusiasts generally agree on a few infamous contenders. The ultimate winner depends on whether you value engineering failure, abysmal safety, or sheer lack of drivability:
Car salespeople typically earn commission based on the profit a dealership makes on each vehicle sold. Most commissions range from 20 percent to 30 percent of the dealership's gross profit on a vehicle. Some salespeople are paid per unit sold, while others receive a mix of salary and commission.
The least stolen cars are ones with bright colours such as orange, green, yellow, and pink. This is because they're uncommon, easy to notice, and hard to sell. Car thieves tend to go for vehicles in common colours, such as white, grey, and black. This is because they have a higher demand, making them easy to sell.