Car Paint Quantity Guide
how many gallons of paint to paint a car
Determining how many gallons of paint you need for a car project depends on several factors. Proper calculation ensures you purchase enough material without excessive waste.
Standard Paint Requirements
Most passenger cars require 1-2 gallons of paint for a complete exterior job. This includes primer, base coat, and clear coat applications. The exact amount varies based on vehicle size, paint type, and application method.
- Compact cars: 1-1.5 gallons
- Mid-size vehicles: 1.5-2 gallons
- SUVs and trucks: 2-3 gallons
- Primer requirements: 1-2 gallons
- Clear coat: 1-2 gallons
Factors Influencing Paint Quantity
Paint coverage depends on color, method, and surface condition. Dark colors may require more coats for full coverage. Professional spray systems use paint more efficiently than amateur equipment.
Always account for mixing reduction and spray gun waste. Most professionals recommend purchasing 10-20% extra paint to account for testing, touch-ups, and application losses.