How Long Can Automotive Paint Last?
2 Answers
If using imported paint, it can last for three years, while most domestic paints can only last for one to two years. Automotive paint is a protective film applied to vehicles, serving as a type of coating that makes the car body less susceptible to corrosion. Different types of automotive paint have varying effects. Below are relevant details: 1. After repainting a car, if the new color differs from the original, you must apply for record filing with the vehicle management office within 10 days. Otherwise, unauthorized color changes may result in fines. 2. Not all colors can be changed freely. The following three special colors reserved for specific vehicles cannot be used arbitrarily: fire-engine red for firefighting vehicles, engineering rescue yellow, and the upper white and lower blue combination for national administrative law enforcement vehicles.
I've been driving for over a decade and have quite some expertise in car painting. Factory paint jobs typically last 10 to 15 years due to their advanced processes and thicker paint layers. Aftermarket paint jobs, however, are usually inferior, lasting only 5 to 10 years, depending on the quality of the work. The longevity of the paint is greatly influenced by the materials used. For instance, a good combination of epoxy primer and clear coat provides strong corrosion resistance, naturally making it more durable. If you just apply a single layer of paint casually, it's prone to bubbling and peeling. Keeping your car in a garage to avoid excessive sun exposure and waxing it monthly can significantly extend its lifespan by several years. On the other hand, if the car is parked outdoors exposed to daily sun and rain, the paint will age quickly, starting to fade and turn yellow in about three years. In short, good paint also depends on maintenance.
