What is the paint thickness of the Equinox?
2 Answers
The paint thickness of the Equinox is 100 microns. Average car paint thickness: 136 microns. Layers of car paint: There are four layers in total. Taking the traditional four-layer process as an example, from the inside out, they are the electrophoretic layer, primer, basecoat, and clearcoat. The electrophoretic layer can be roughly regarded as the layer directly attached to the car body steel plate, only a few microns thick. Its function is to prevent rust and improve the adhesion of the paint layer. The primer is an intermediate layer between the electrophoretic layer and the basecoat. Its functions are relatively simple: it resists UV rays, protects the electrophoretic layer, enhances rust prevention, improves the smoothness and impact resistance of the paint surface, and also provides some adhesion for the basecoat. The basecoat provides the most direct color perception—whether red, black, Kingfisher Blue, Pittsburgh Gray, Cashmere Silver, or Supersonic Quartz White—directly determining the expressiveness of the car body color, making its functionality very important. The clearcoat is the outermost layer of the car paint, mainly enhancing the gloss and texture of the paint surface, protecting against UV rays, and preventing minor scratches.
I have measured the paint thickness of many Equinox models, and it generally ranges between 130 and 150 microns. For example, the hood is slightly thicker at around 150 microns, while the doors are a bit thinner at approximately 130 microns. This thickness is considered standard, providing protection against rust and minor scratches. However, if the vehicle is frequently exposed to sunlight or harsh cleaning agents, the paint can wear down faster. Once it drops below 100 microns, rust becomes more likely. I recommend that owners regularly inspect their paint using an affordable paint thickness gauge—these are easy to use and cost just a few dozen dollars. Check different parts of the car once a year. Maintaining proper paint thickness is crucial not only for keeping the exterior shiny but also for extending the vehicle’s lifespan. Recording a baseline measurement when the car is new makes it easier to compare and maintain later on.
