How long does it take to bake car paint?

[SanChristopher]

Original high-temperature baking paint for cars generally takes about half an hour per coat. Equipment for car paint baking: The paint spraying equipment at any brand's automotive after-sales service center typically includes branded baking booths, branded paint spray guns, etc. Automotive paint processes mainly consist of 4 layers: The first is the electrophoretic paint, whose main function is rust prevention. The second is the primer, which primarily resists UV rays and stone chipping, and provides a base for the color coat. The third is the color coat, whose main function is aesthetics. The fourth is the clear coat, which gives the car body a glossy finish and resists stone chipping. Main effects of over-baking: It damages the paint's flexibility, reduces its adhesion, making the paint brittle and diminishing its resistance to stone chipping. Otherwise, if the car body surface is hit or slightly scratched, the paint may crack or even peel off.

[GideonMarie]

I see that the drying time after car painting isn't fixed. Professional shops usually set the baking room temperature around 60°C, taking 30 to 40 minutes for safety. It depends on the paint type: water-based paint dries faster, about 25 minutes, while oil-based paint or thick coatings may extend beyond 50 minutes. Temperatures above 80°C can crack the paint, and too low won't dry thoroughly, attracting dust and being prone to scratches. Don't rush to move the car after baking; let it cool naturally for about an hour to prevent damage. I recommend waiting at least 24 hours after painting before washing or exposing the car to the outside, otherwise moisture seepage can cause bubbling. Proper drying also extends the paint's lifespan, saving the hassle of rework.

[Dylan]

My car has been scratched a few times, and whenever I went for a paint job, I always asked the technicians how long the baking process takes. They usually say it averages 30 minutes in a professional baking booth. In actual operation, they adjust the temperature to 50-70 degrees Celsius and use fans to blow hot air to accelerate curing. Don't underestimate this time: too short, and the paint won't be durable, washing off easily; baking too long wastes electricity and may cause discoloration. Experience tells me that in summer's high temperatures, baking for about 25 minutes is sufficient, while in winter's humidity, it should be extended to 45 minutes. After baking, the car should be left to cool for an hour before driving to avoid damaging the soft paint. By the way, it's best not to expose the car to rain or wash it on the first day after painting to ensure complete curing before daily use.

[AndresMarie]

In my DIY car repair experience, I've found that paint drying times vary depending on the tools used. In a professional baking booth set at 60 degrees Celsius, it takes about 30 minutes; while a handheld heat gun for home use on localized areas only requires 15 to 20 minutes. Temperature control is crucial: exceeding 80 degrees can cause paint cracking, while insufficient heat leads to incomplete drying and dust adhesion. After baking, allow proper cooling time before touching to prevent marks. I also remind friends to thoroughly clean surfaces before painting to minimize impurities, and avoid washing the car within 24 hours after baking to prevent bubbling and tedious repairs.