Primer is an essential component if you're planning on attacking your car with the paint gun, but the fact remains that there are so many that it can quickly become confusing if you aren't familiar with primer.
We've examined the most popular examples currently on sale and selected our favourite examples of both. We haven't covered absolutely every type of primer but for most tasks the below examples are ideal.
And now that you're treating your car to a fresh coat of paint, why not protect it the best you can with some proper paint sealant or even a ceramic coating that's sure to leave your paintwork gleaming for longer.
The best primer for your car
The best standard car primer
Description
Standard primer like this product from Hycote is designed for repair work because it won't lift
The best etch primer
Description
Etch primer is great for priming a bare panel because its adhesive and works on steel, aluminium
the best primer for rust removal
Description
Surface rust is a common thing you'll find on an older car as you prep it for painting so why not
Plastic primer
The best primer for plastic
Description
Plastic primer is designed to be used on, you guessed it, plastic body panels. This simple aerosol
The best filler primer
Description
Another way of doing two jobs at once, filler primer will fill in small blemishes in your bodywork
What you need to know about primer
What do I need to prime my car for painting?
As well as primer and something to paint, you should also buy the following products:
Masking tape and paper/tarp will ensure that you don't get any overspray onto areas you don't want primer covering.
Sand paper of different grades will ensure the surface is smooth for the primer.
Car washing products will remove any contaminants and dirt from your car to give you better results.
How do I stay safe while using car primer?
Primer can irritate your eyes and cause dizziness if used in a poorly ventilated area. For that reason make sure there is plenty of ventilation as you work and make sure you wear a dust mask and goggles.
Primer is dispensed from a pressurised aerosol canister and is extremely flammable meaning you should avoid naked flames and store it away from heat sources.
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