FAQ's - Car Paint

Car Paint NZ FAQs

What type of car paint do I need for my vehicle?

That depends on the job. We offer complete respray kits for larger projects and convenient spray cans for smaller touch-ups. Contact our team for tailored advice on the right paint type and size for your project.

Can Auto Finish colour match my existing car paint?

Yes. Our team offers precise colour matching for most vehicle makes and models. Simply provide your paint code and vehicle make, and we’ll create a perfect auto paint match.

Do I need a primer before applying car paint?

Yes, a quality primer creates adhesion between the surface and your auto paint, preventing peeling or uneven texture. It also helps with corrosion resistance and smoother coverage

I have scratches or dents on my car. Can I paint straight over them?

We’d recommend repairing the surface first with a body filler for a smooth, even base. Painting directly over imperfections can cause uneven coverage and poor adhesion.

What's the difference between Basecoat & 2K?

1. Composition

2K (Two-Pack) Paint:

“2K” stands for two components — the paint itself and a hardener (activator).
The chemical reaction between the two creates a durable, chemically cured finish.
Contains isocyanates (in the hardener), which require proper PPE and ventilation during use.

Basecoat:

Basecoat is the color layer in a basecoat/clearcoat system.
It’s a single component (1K) paint that air-dries without hardener.
Usually requires a clear coat on top for gloss, protection, and durability.

2. Finish and Appearance

2K Paint:

Can be direct gloss — meaning it doesn’t need a clear coat.
Often used for solid colors or commercial finishes where toughness is important.
Has a deep gloss and strong chemical resistance once cured.

Basecoat:

Appears flat or matte before the clear coat is applied.
The clear coat provides the shine and UV protection.
Ideal for metallics, pearls, and complex colors, as the clear coat enhances the effect.

Our Range of Automotive Paints

Respray Kits: Complete auto paint systems designed for full panels or complete vehicle jobs.
Basecoats and Colours: Choose from solid, metallic, and pearl options formulated for consistent coverage and accurate colour matching.
Primers and Preparation Products: Epoxy, etch, and high-build primers that create strong adhesion and an even foundation for your paint.
Clearcoats and Finishing Products: Available in gloss, satin, and matte finishes, our clearcoats protect colour layers from UV exposure, chemicals, and daily wear while enhancing depth and gloss.
Spray Paint: Ready-to-use aerosols, including colour-matched touch-up cans and repair kits, are perfect for small jobs and quick refinishing.
Body Fillers and Repair Materials: Lightweight, easy-sanding fillers designed to level surfaces, correct imperfections, and prepare panels for paint application.
Painting Accessories: From mixing tools and matting agents to masking tapes and protective gear, we stock the essentials to help every stage run smoothly from prep to polish.

The Importance of Quality Car Paint

At Autofinish, we know that using the right car paint can be the difference between a lasting finish and a costly redo. We’ve spent years testing and sourcing automotive paint that performs under real New Zealand conditions, from harsh UV to coastal humidity. Cheap paint can fade, peel, or lose its gloss far too quickly, but our trusted auto paint range delivers consistent coverage, strong adhesion, and long-term protection.

Why Buy Auto Paint from Autofinish?

With over two decades in refinishing, we’ve built our range around what actually works in New Zealand workshops, from durable primers to professional spray kits and matching accessories.

Our products are all stocked locally, tested for performance, and supported by a team that understands the process from prep to polish. Whether you’re spraying your first bonnet or completing a full custom respray, we make it easier to get consistent, professional results at home or on the job.

Need something specific or a colour that’s hard to find? Our expert team can help you get it right the first time.

What is body filler used for on a car?

Car body filler is used to repair dents, scratches, and imperfections before painting. It creates a smooth, even surface that helps your paint finish look flawless.

Can I paint directly over body filler on a car?

You should always apply primer before painting over automotive body filler. Primer seals the surface, improves adhesion, and prevents the paint from sinking or reacting

What’s the difference between automotive filler and putty?

Body filler is thicker and used for shaping or filling dents, while finishing putty or spot putty is finer and designed to skim small imperfections before priming.

Can I get custom colour car spray paint to match my vehicle?

Yes, our Custom Mix and Match Touch Up Spray Cans are colour-matched to your specific paint code, giving you a precise and consistent factory-style finish.

Do I need primer before using automotive spray paint?

In most cases, yes. A quality automotive primer ensures proper adhesion, corrosion protection, and smoother colour application, especially on bare metal or repaired surfaces.

What’s the difference between 1K and 2K clearcoats?

A 1K clearcoat is ready to use straight from the can, while a 2K clearcoat includes a hardener for superior durability, gloss, and chemical resistance.

Can I use car spray paint on plastic parts?

Absolutely. Use a plastic primer aerosol first to promote adhesion, then apply your colour and clear for a smooth, lasting finish

Do I really need to use a primer before painting my car?

Yes. Primer creates a stable surface for your topcoat to bond to. Skipping it can cause uneven colour, poor adhesion, and early paint failure.

What type of auto primer paint should I use on bare metal?

For bare steel or aluminium, an etch primer or epoxy primer is best. These formulas promote adhesion and protect against corrosion.

What’s the best primer for plastic car parts?

A plastic primer spray is essential for bumpers, trims, and other flexible parts. It’s designed to help paint stick properly without peeling or cracking.

Should I use a spray can primer for my car instead of a liquid primer?

Spray can primers are ideal for smaller repairs or spot work where setting up a spray gun isn’t practical. Liquid primer is better suited to full resprays or larger areas where a thicker build and spray gun application give greater efficiency and depth.