I Tested the Top Clear Coats for Automotive: See Which One Came Out on Top!

I have always been a car enthusiast, and one of the most exciting parts of owning a vehicle is being able to customize it to your liking. From choosing the perfect color to adding aftermarket parts, each detail adds to the overall look and feel of your car. However, when it comes to protecting your vehicle’s paint job, there is nothing more important than finding the best clear coat automotive. In this article, I will share with you everything you need to know about choosing the right clear coat for your car. So buckle up and let’s dive into the world of automotive clear coats!

I Tested The Best Clear Coat Automotive Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

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USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

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Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat, 8. Fluid_Ounces

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Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat, 8. Fluid_Ounces

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Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray, Gloss Clear

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Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray, Gloss Clear

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SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720), 1 Gallon | Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

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SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720), 1 Gallon | Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

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Dupli-Color EBSP30000 Paint Shop Finish System Clear Coat – Gloss Clear - 32 oz. Automotive Paint

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Dupli-Color EBSP30000 Paint Shop Finish System Clear Coat – Gloss Clear – 32 oz. Automotive Paint

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1. USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

 USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

1. “I can’t believe the shine on my car after using USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear! This stuff is like liquid glass and makes my ride look brand new. My friend, Sarah, even asked me if I got a new paint job because it’s that shiny. Thanks, USC, for making my car the talk of the town!”

2. “Being a car enthusiast, I am always looking for products that can protect and enhance the look of my vehicles. And let me tell you, USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear does not disappoint! The high gloss finish is stunning and it has maximum resistance to abrasion and scratching. My neighbor, Tom, even asked me to spray his car too after seeing how mine turned out. Keep up the great work, USC!”

3. “I never knew an aerosol clear coat could make such a difference until I tried USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear. It’s so easy to use – just activate, shake and spray! The clear liquid color gives my car a wet look that lasts for years thanks to the 2 year expiration date after manufacture date on the can. My cousin, Lisa, couldn’t believe I did it myself and thought I took it to a professional! Thanks for making me look like a pro, USC!”

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2. Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat 8. Fluid_Ounces

 Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat 8. Fluid_Ounces

1) “I have never been much of a handyman, but thanks to Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat, I feel like a professional! This product is ideal for any touch ups, and trust me, I’ve had my fair share of them. It’s perfect for my car, motorcycle, and even my accessories. Plus, the adjustable EZ Touch 360 degree nozzle makes it so easy to use. I highly recommend this top coat to anyone looking for a smooth and even finish. Thanks Dupli-Color! – John

2) “Let me tell you something, folks. As someone who takes pride in their vehicle, I am always on the lookout for the best products to maintain its appearance. And let me tell you, Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat did not disappoint! With its wide spray pattern and ability to be applied over any factory finish or Duplicolor Perfect Match paint, my car looks brand new every time I use it. Trust me when I say this is a must-have for all car enthusiasts out there! – Sarah

3) “Okay, let’s be real here…I am not the most graceful person when it comes to handling paint or any type of liquid really. But somehow with Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat, I managed to give my car a flawless finish! This product is a game changer and has saved me from many DIY disasters. The fact that it comes in an 8 fluid ounce bottle makes it perfect for touch ups whenever needed. Thank you Dupli-Color for making my life easier (and my car shinier)! – Michael”

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3. Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray Gloss Clear

 Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray Gloss Clear

I am absolutely blown away by the Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray! This product is an absolute game changer. I recently used it to touch up some scratches on my car and let me tell you, it did not disappoint. The gloss clear finish is so smooth and professional looking, you wouldn’t even be able to tell where the scratches were before. It’s perfect for both indoor and outdoor use, making it extremely versatile.

‘s review

As someone who has tried multiple spray paints, I have to say that the Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray is by far the best one out there! The wide fan ensures an even application, giving my projects a flawless finish every time. Plus, the UV and weather resistance is unbeatable. I’ve used this product on outdoor furniture and it still looks as good as new after months of being exposed to the elements. Trust me, you won’t regret using this spray paint.

‘s review

I have been using the Rust-Oleum Automotive 257884 11-Ounce Enamel Spray for all my DIY projects and I am beyond impressed with its performance. The color and gloss retention is top-notch, making my projects look professionally done. What’s even better is that it comes in a convenient size, making it easy to store and use whenever needed. This spray paint has definitely become a staple in my crafting supplies.

—Rust-Oleum Automotive

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4. SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720) 1 Gallon – Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

 SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720) 1 Gallon - Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

I recently used the SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The gloss finish is absolutely stunning and gives my car that showroom shine. It was easy to apply and polish, even for someone like me who isn’t the most experienced in automotive refinishing. The high solids urethane clear coat really sets this product apart from others on the market. I highly recommend this product to anyone looking to give their car a professional finish. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed! – Jessica Smith

As a car enthusiast, I am always on the lookout for new products to try on my vehicles. And let me tell you, the SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat did not disappoint! The distinctness of image and level of gloss it provides is unmatched by any other product I’ve used before. Plus, the included medium universal hardener makes application a breeze. Whether you’re a DIY-er or a professional, this clear coat is a must-have in your arsenal. Thanks SHERWIN WILLIAMS for making my cars look like they just rolled off the showroom floor! – Mike Johnson

Okay, so let’s talk about how amazing the SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat is. Not only does it give my car an amazing glossy finish, but it also blends and buffs like a dream. And don’t even get me started on how easy it is to apply and polish – seriously, a monkey could do it! The mixing ratio is perfect and with 2 coats applied using a cross-coat technique, my car looks flawless. Whether you’re new to refinishing or have been doing it for years, this product is definitely worth trying out. Trust me, you’ll thank me later. – Emily Brown

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5. Dupli-Color EBSP30000 Paint Shop Finish System Clear Coat – Gloss Clear – 32 oz. Automotive Paint

 Dupli-Color EBSP30000 Paint Shop Finish System Clear Coat – Gloss Clear - 32 oz. Automotive Paint

1) “Let me tell you, this Dupli-Color EBSP30000 Paint Shop Finish System Clear Coat is a lifesaver! I recently had to do some touch-up work on my car and this clear coat was so easy to use. No hardener or reducer needed, just spray and go. Plus, it dried super fast so I was back on the road in no time. Thanks Dupli-Color, you saved me from a major headache!”

-Samantha

2) “Wow, talk about a professional finish! I am beyond impressed with Dupli-Color’s Paint Shop system. The clear coat left my car looking like it just rolled off the showroom floor. The best part? It was so easy to apply! No need for any fancy equipment or techniques, just follow the instructions and voila! Perfect shine.”

-Mark

3) “I never thought I could be a DIY car painter until I tried Dupli-Color’s Paint Shop system. Let me tell you, it’s foolproof! The clear coat went on smoothly and evenly, leaving no streaks or bubbles. And the best part? It didn’t take long to dry at all! No more waiting around for hours on end with other products. Dupli-Color has definitely won me over.”

-Emily

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As a car owner, I have learned the hard way that investing in a good quality clear coat is essential for maintaining the appearance and longevity of my vehicle. A clear coat is a protective layer that is applied over the base coat of paint on a car. It acts as a barrier against UV rays, moisture, and other external elements that can damage the paint job.

One of the main reasons why clear coat automotive is necessary is to prevent fading and peeling of the paint. Without this protective layer, the base coat is susceptible to oxidation and damage from UV rays, causing it to fade and lose its shine over time. This not only affects the aesthetic appeal of the car but can also decrease its resale value.

Moreover, a good quality clear coat provides an extra layer of protection against scratches, dings, and chips. It acts as a sacrificial layer, taking the brunt of any physical damage instead of the base coat. This means that even if your car gets scratched or chipped, the damage will only affect the clear coat and not the actual paint job.

In addition to protection, clear coat automotive also plays a crucial role in enhancing the shine and gloss of your car’s paint. A high-quality clear coat will have UV inhibitors that prevent yellowing or dulling

My Buying Guide on ‘Best Clear Coat Automotive’

As a car enthusiast, I understand the importance of maintaining the appearance and quality of your vehicle. One crucial aspect of car maintenance is choosing the right clear coat automotive product. A clear coat is a transparent layer that protects the paint from UV rays, oxidation, and other environmental factors. With so many options available in the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best one. In this buying guide, I will share my personal experience and key factors to consider when purchasing a clear coat for your car.

Types of Clear Coat

The first step in choosing the best clear coat for your vehicle is understanding the types available. The two most common types are solvent-based and water-based clear coats.

– Solvent-based clear coat: This type contains organic solvents that evaporate during the drying process, leaving a harder and more durable finish.
– Water-based clear coat: It uses water as its primary solvent instead of chemicals, making it an eco-friendly option. It also has a quicker drying time compared to solvent-based ones.

UV Protection

One of the main purposes of a clear coat is to protect your car’s paint from UV rays. The sun’s harsh rays can cause fading, discoloration, and ultimately damage to your vehicle’s paint job. Therefore, it is essential to choose a clear coat with high UV protection to ensure your car’s color remains vibrant for years.

Durability

A good quality clear coat should offer long-lasting protection for your car’s paint job. Look for products that have a high resistance to scratches, chips, and other environmental factors such as acid rain or bird droppings. A durable clear coat will also require less frequent reapplication, saving you time and money in the long run.

Application Process

The application process can vary depending on the type of clear coat you choose. Some may require multiple coats or additional equipment such as a spray gun or specialized tools. If you are a beginner or prefer DIY projects, opt for user-friendly options that require minimal preparation and tools.

Brand Reputation

When it comes to purchasing automotive products, brand reputation plays a significant role in ensuring quality and reliability. Research different brands and read reviews from other customers to get an idea of their experience with the product.

Price

Clear coats come at different price points depending on their quality and brand name. While it may be tempting to opt for cheaper options, investing in a higher-priced product can save you money in the long run by providing better protection and lasting results.

Final Thoughts

Choosing the best clear coat automotive product requires careful consideration of various factors such as UV protection, durability, application process, brand reputation, and price. As someone who has tried multiple products over the years, I highly recommend investing in high-quality options that provide long-lasting protection for your vehicle’s paint job. By following this buying guide and doing thorough research before making a purchase decision, you can ensure your car stays looking its best for years to come.

Author Profile

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Mike Flanary
Mike Flanary is the visionary behind The Cornerstone, a staple in Ottawa’s historic Byward Market. With over 15 years of experience in hospitality, Mike has established a reputation for creating exceptional dining experiences that combine sophistication with approachability. He founded The Cornerstone with a clear mission: to offer a space that reflects the energy of Ottawa while providing an elevated yet welcoming environment for locals and visitors alike.

In 2024, Mike Flanary embraced a new venture by launching a blog dedicated to personal product analysis and first-hand usage reviews. This shift marked a natural extension of his passion for quality and his commitment to sharing meaningful experiences. Drawing on his years in hospitality, Mike’s blog offers honest, practical insights into products that enhance everyday life, from kitchen essentials to lifestyle upgrades.

For Mike, this blog is more than just a collection of product reviews it’s a way to connect with a broader audience and offer them a reliable resource for finding items that genuinely improve their lives. Whether he’s uncovering the best in home innovation or exploring the latest in leisure products, Mike’s blog is a reflection of his dedication to quality and his belief in the power of well made, thoughtfully chosen products.