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Best Clear Coats for Cars

Updated June 2023
Bottom line
Pros
Cons
Best of the Best
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High- Gloss Aerosol Clear by UCS
USC
SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear by UCS
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High-gloss Finish

With spray-gun results from an aerosol can, this high-quality clear coat is the one to use for a high-gloss finish on smaller projects.

High-gloss Finish
Bottom Line

With spray-gun results from an aerosol can, this high-quality clear coat is the one to use for a high-gloss finish on smaller projects.

Pros

Easy-to-use aerosol 2K clear coat. Nozzle design gives spray-gun results. Dries to a high-gloss finish. Great weather and chemical resistance. Provides protection against abrasion and scratching. Very high-gloss finish.

Cons

Product will solidify in the container within a matter of hours, so be ready to work when you puncture it. Be sure to use eye protection, proper breathing equipment, and skin protection when you apply.

Best Bang for the Buck
KBS Coatings Clear High- Gloss Diamond Finish Clear Aerosol
KBS Coatings
Clear High Gloss Diamond Finish Clear Aerosol
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Bargain Pick

This clear coat works well for some applications. It doesn't finish as hard as others, though, and you won't mistake it for a spray-gun application.

Bargain Pick
Bottom Line

This clear coat works well for some applications. It doesn't finish as hard as others, though, and you won't mistake it for a spray-gun application.

Pros

Apply directly to painted surfaces with minimal preparation. Can be applied directly to stainless steel surfaces. Protects and adds gloss. Tough and hard. Remains permanently flexible. Won't yellow, crack, or peel. UV stable. Choice of high-gloss or satin.

Cons

Does not give a high-gloss finish. Spray nozzle does not always spray cleanly.

USC SprayMax 2K Clear Coat Semi Matte
USC
SprayMax 2K Clear Coat Semi Matte
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Easiest to Use

Get low-sheen satin, spray-gun style results with aerosol convenience with this quality Spray Max product.

Easiest to Use
Bottom Line

Get low-sheen satin, spray-gun style results with aerosol convenience with this quality Spray Max product.

Pros

Satin or semi-matte, low-luster finish. Provides durable weather resistance. Nozzle design gives spray-gun results. Provides a low-gloss look. Gas- and oil-resistant.

Cons

Be sure to use eye protection, proper breathing equipment, and skin protection when you apply. Solidifies in the container in a number of hours.

SEM Clear Aerosol - 15.5 oz.
SEM
Clear Aerosol - 15.5 oz.
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Dries Quickly

Quick-drying time and a high-quality aerosol sprayer make this a good choice for small accessory parts, as well as fenders and quarter panels.

Dries Quickly
Bottom Line

Quick-drying time and a high-quality aerosol sprayer make this a good choice for small accessory parts, as well as fenders and quarter panels.

Pros

Good for small accessory parts of a vehicle. High-quality spray tip. Lays down flat and dries quickly. Protects well. Applies smoothly. High-quality.

Cons

Be sure to use respirator and eye protection with this product, because the spray will likely linger a bit.

Auto Paint Pro FC720 Quart Kit w/ FH612 Hardener
Auto Paint Pro
FC720 Quart Kit w/ FH612 Hardener
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Two-part Finish Set

This clear coat kit includes a gloss clear coat and a hardener for easier application.

Two-part Finish Set
Bottom Line

This clear coat kit includes a gloss clear coat and a hardener for easier application.

Pros

High-gloss clear coat gives a brilliant sheen to your paint job. Included hardener increases the flow of product. Can be used as an aerosol or in paint spray guns. Requires little buffing once completely dry, which cuts down on labor time.

Cons

Some noticed some minor lifting of this clear coat when taping off graphics.

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BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and all opinions about the products are our own. About BestReviews  
BestReviews spends thousands of hours researching, analyzing, and testing products to recommend the best picks for most consumers. We buy all products with our own funds, and we never accept free products from manufacturers.About BestReviews 
HOW WE TESTED

We recommend these products based on an intensive research process that's designed to cut through the noise and find the top products in this space. Guided by experts, we spend hours looking into the factors that matter, to bring you these selections.

First Reviewed
November 23, 2021
60
Models
considered
10
Hours
researched
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The team that worked on this review
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