What is the original paint value on a paint thickness gauge?
3 Answers
Paint thickness gauge readings between 120 and 180 microns are considered normal, indicating original paint. The paint thickness gauge is primarily used to measure the thickness of a car's paint surface, helping to determine whether the vehicle's paint needs to be redone. Paint thickness varies depending on the car model, color, and specific area. More details are as follows: Paint characteristics: Automotive paint must not only have good mechanical properties, high fullness, and high gloss but also excellent adhesion, hardness, and scratch resistance. Additionally, it should possess good weather resistance, scratch and wear resistance, gloss retention, and excellent resistance to gasoline, alcohol, acids, alkalis, and salt spray. Paint function: Automotive paint coating involves applying a thin film over the car's paint surface to protect the paint's gloss from fading and provide a physical protective layer, thereby safeguarding the paint.
Last time when helping a friend inspect a car, I specifically researched paint thickness gauges. The normal original paint thickness varies by vehicle type. Japanese cars generally range between 80 to 140 microns, German cars are slightly thicker at around 120 to 180 microns, while American cars can be the thickest, potentially reaching 200 microns. The key is to check if the readings are consistent across different parts of the body. For example, if the measurements on the hood, roof, and doors vary by no more than 30 microns, it's generally fine. If a particular spot suddenly jumps to over 300 microns, there's a 90% chance it's been repainted. Plastic bumpers tend to read higher, but anything over 250 microns should raise concerns. The used car market is full of pitfalls these days, so it's best to bring a paint thickness gauge before purchasing—it's far more reliable than just relying on the dealer's description.
A seasoned panel beater with years of paint thickness gauge experience shares: Factory paint is like a fingerprint—no two cars are exactly alike. For German cars, around 150 microns is generally normal, but some BMW metallic finishes can reach 190 microns. Focus on hard-to-repair areas like door edges and fender seams, where factory readings remain consistent. If ABC pillars measure 280 microns with jagged fluctuations, it's definitive evidence of later body filler leveling. However, a sudden 80-micron drop on the roof compared to doors is also abnormal, possibly indicating missed spots during a full repaint. Remember, plastic parts naturally have 20% thicker factory paint than metal—but be wary if a Tiguan's bumper exceeds 280 microns.
