Paint Order and Dry Time GuideUpdated 9 days ago
This guide explains the correct order for applying automotive touch-up paint and how long to wait between coats for best results. Proper timing ensures strong adhesion and a smooth finish.
1: Apply Primer (If Needed for Your Repair)
Use: Primer is the first layer and helps the paint stick to bare surfaces such as metal, plastic, or carbon fiber.
- Number of Coats: 1–2 coats
- Dry Time Between Coats: 15–30 minutes
- Tip: Primer provides excellent coverage. A third coat is rarely needed.
➡️ Move on to Colorcoat only after Primer is fully dry — wait at least 30 minutes.
2: Apply Colorcoat
Use: The Colorcoat restores the color to the damaged area.
- Number of Coats: 2–3 coats, depending on the size of the area and color opacity
- Dry Time Between Coats: 15–30 minutes
➡️ Let the final Colorcoat dry for at least 30 minutes before moving to Clearcoat.
❗ Important: Do not wait more than 24 hours between Colorcoat and Clearcoat. Delaying may cause adhesion problems or peeling.
Tricoat Colors
If your color is a Tricoat, you will receive two Colorcoat applicators: Basecoat and Midcoat. These must be applied in the correct order.
- Basecoat: Apply 2–3 coats, allowing 15–30 minutes for dry time between coats. Wait until the Basecoat is completely dry before applying the Midcoat.
- Midcoat: Apply 2–3 coats with the same dry time. Midcoat application is identical to Basecoat.
🟡 Note on Tricoat:
Tricoat colors are made by layering two different paints — a Basecoat and a Midcoat — to achieve the final color. It’s completely normal if these layers look different from each other or from your vehicle’s finished color during application. In some pearl Tricoat colors, the Midcoat may look translucent. This is intentional and part of how the final color effect is created.
3: Apply Clearcoat
Use: The Clearcoat protects the color and adds shine.
- Number of Coats: 2–3 coats (maximum of 4)
- Dry Time Between Coats: 15–30 minutes
➡️ Wait 48 hours after the final Clearcoat application before polishing or waxing.
| Step | Coats | Dry Time Between Coats | Wait Time Before Next Step |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primer | 1–2 | 15–30 minutes | 30 minutes before Colorcoat |
| Colorcoat | 2–4 / Tricoat | 15–30 minutes | 30 minutes before Clearcoat |
| Clearcoat | 2–3 (max 4) | 15–30 minutes | 48 hours before polishing |
FAQ
Q: What happens if I wait too long before applying Clearcoat?
A: Waiting over 24 hours can lead to poor adhesion, which may cause the paint to peel or wrinkle.
Q: Can I polish right after the Clearcoat?
A: No. Wait a full 48 hours to allow the Clearcoat to fully cure before polishing or waxing.