What is the Normal Reading for a Paint Thickness Gauge?

[Jessica]

Paint thickness gauge readings between 120 to 180 microns are considered normal. The paint thickness gauge is primarily used to measure the thickness of a car's paint surface, thereby determining whether the vehicle's paint has been redone. Automotive paint consists of four layers, from the inside out: the electrocoat layer, primer layer, basecoat layer, and clearcoat layer. The electrocoat layer can be roughly considered as the paint layer directly attached to the car body's steel plate, hence it is also referred to as the primer. The primer layer is an intermediate layer between the electrocoat and basecoat layers, with relatively simple functions: it provides UV resistance, protects the electrocoat layer, enhances rustproofing capabilities, and also contributes to the smoothness and impact resistance of the paint surface. The basecoat layer is the colored paint layer that provides consumers with direct visual color perception. The clearcoat layer is the surface of the car paint, a transparent layer that can be directly touched with fingertips.

[StLiam]

When buying a car, I always bring a paint thickness gauge to measure the paint layer. The normal range is around 80 to 160 microns. Factory paint is usually evenly distributed within this range. If a certain area measures below 80 microns, the paint may be too thin or worn; exceeding 160 microns could indicate accident repairs or thickened coverage, affecting the vehicle's overall safety. Different models vary: sedans and SUVs typically have original paint between 100-150 microns, with the hood slightly thicker than the doors. When selecting a new car, checking multiple points for an average reading ensures accuracy. In used car transactions, abnormal readings may conceal issues, leading to significant depreciation. I recommend regular use of the gauge for prevention, especially before purchasing used cars, to avoid high future repair costs, as paint condition affects both appearance and insurance discounts.

[McJosiah]

Years of experience in vehicle appraisal have shown that paint thickness readings between 80-160 microns are considered normal, with factory-new car paint typically maintaining an even distribution of 100-150 microns. Significant fluctuations in readings—such as 120 microns on the hood versus 180 microns on the side panels of the same vehicle—may indicate accident repair marks. In used car transactions, high readings increase deal risks, requiring buyers to be cautious about potential expensive repairs and safety hazards. While slight variations may occur between different areas like roofs and bumpers, overall consistency is crucial. During evaluation, I take multiple measurement points to calculate an average, avoiding misjudgment from single readings. For safety, professional pre-purchase inspections are recommended—abnormal readings should prompt price negotiations or avoidance of the deal.

[DelOwen]

In the repair shop, a paint thickness gauge normally displays 80-160 microns as the ideal range, with factory-new paint typically averaging around 110 microns of uniform coverage. If readings fall below 80 microns, the paint layer is too thin and prone to scratches; exceeding 160 microns may indicate accident-related repainting buildup, which could lead to later cracking or rust issues. During use, I take multiple measurements from the roof to door panels to check for variations—SUV bodies tend to be 5-10 microns thicker than sedans. Regular inspections help prevent minor damage from escalating, saving repair costs. We recommend owners conduct checks every six months, ensuring consistent readings for peace of mind.