Best Automotive Top Coats of 2025

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Automotive top coats are essential for protecting the base coat of a vehicle from the elements, such as UV rays, harsh weather, and scratches. They are designed to provide a glossy, smooth finish that enhances the overall appearance of the vehicle. Automotive top coats come in various types, including clear coat, pearl coat, metallic coat, and matte coat. Clear coat is the most popular and widely used top coat, as it provides excellent protection and enhances the color of the base coat. Pearl coat and metallic coat add a subtle shimmer and depth to the finish, while matte coat provides a non-glossy, smooth finish. Overall, automotive top coats are a crucial part of the automotive painting process, ensuring a long-lasting and beautiful finish.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat Cover #TOP 1
Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz Cover #TOP 2
Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.7
POR-15 Chassis Black Top Coat Paint Cover #TOP 3
POR-15 Chassis Black Top Coat Paint
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Automotive Top Coats

#TOP 1

Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat

BCL0125
Clear
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat Cover
Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat, 8. Fluid_Ounces

The Dupli-Color BCL0125 Clear Exact-Match Automotive Top Coat is a professional-grade product that is perfect for large touch-ups, vehicle accessories, and motorcycles. It can be applied over any factory finish or Duplicolor Perfect Match Premium Automotive Paint. The adjustable EZ Touch 360-degree nozzle and wide spray pattern ensure smooth, even coats.

What We Like
Color match is impressive
Easy application process
Quick drying time
Smooth and even finish
Cost-effective DIY solution
What We Don't Like
Less paint in the can
Pricey for small quantity
#TOP 2

Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz

BCL0125
Random color
3 Piece Set
Dupli-Color Clear Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz Cover
Dupli-Color Acrylic Clear Perfect Match Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz, Bundles with Prep Wipe (3 Items)

The Dupli-Color Clear Perfect Match Automotive Top Coat is an ideal product for touch ups on large surfaces such as vehicles and motorcycles. It can be applied over any factory-applied finish or Duplicolor Perfect Match Premium Automotive Paint. The adjustable EZ Touch 360 degree nozzle and wide spray pattern make it easy to apply smooth and even coats. This top coat dries to touch in 30 minutes and can be handled in just 1 hour.

What We Like
Perfect color match
Good finish after buffing
Easy application with proper prep
Effective for touch-ups
What We Don't Like
Spray nozzle issues
Requires multiple cans for shine
#TOP 3

POR-15 Chassis Black Top Coat Paint

45904
Chassis Black
POR-15 Chassis Black Top Coat Paint Cover
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Direct to Metal Paint, Long-term Sheen and Color Retention, 1 Quarts, Chassis Black

POR-15 Chassis Black Top Coat Paint is a direct-to-metal coating that provides excellent adhesion and long-lasting protection against corrosion and rust. It has exceptional long-term sheen and color retention, with a hammer-tough finish that won't crack or peel. It can be applied directly to metal substrates or previously painted surfaces without the need for a primer or undercoat. POR-15 Top Coat is essential for that extra layer of durability and provides optimum protection against UV light that won't fade over long term exposure.

What We Like
Effective rust prevention
Easy application
Durable finish
Can coat over rust
Good for various projects
What We Don't Like
Higher price point
Limited availability
#TOP 4

SHINE ARMOR Ceramic Coating Fortify Quick Coat Spray

Violet
8 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
SHINE ARMOR Ceramic Coating Fortify Quick Coat Spray Cover
SHINE ARMOR Ceramic Coating Fortify Quick Coat Car Wax Polish Spray Waterless Wash & Wax Hydrophobic Top Coat Polish & Polymer Paint Sealant Detail Protection 8 Fl Oz

SHINE ARMOR Ceramic Coating Fortify Quick Coat Spray is a 3-in-1 ceramic coating hydrophobic spray that provides a waterless wash, coat, and shine. It is a premium formula ceramic car coating that is gentle and effective for any vehicle without streaking, smearing or scratching. Its signature 3-in-1 formula eliminates dirt, grime & grease instantly and is safe for all surfaces. It also works as a sealer to give your vehicle a clear shield of protection while providing a beautiful gloss.

What We Like
Easy application process
Brilliant shine finish
No streaks or hazing
Long-lasting protection
Cost-effective solution
What We Don't Like
Somewhat pricey
Long delivery times
#TOP 5

POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Gloss Black, 32oz

45804
Gloss Black
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Gloss Black, 32oz Cover
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Direct to Metal Paint, Long-term Sheen and Color Retention, 32 Fluid Ounces, Gloss Black

POR-15 Gloss Black Paint is your go-to solution for high-performance protection against corrosion and rust. This direct-to-metal coating works wonders in preserving surfaces prone to corrosion, ensuring long-lasting durability. With exceptional sheen and color retention, this paint forms a robust barrier against moisture, preventing cracking and peeling. No need for a primer, it can be applied directly to metal or painted surfaces. Additionally, it offers optimum UV protection, maintaining its color even after prolonged exposure.

What We Like
Durable finish
Easy application
Good self-leveling
Thick coating
Long-lasting results
What We Don't Like
Prepping surface can be time-consuming
May peel if surface isn’t ideal
#TOP 6

Dupli-Color Automotive Clear Coat - 8 oz. Aerosol

EBCL01257
Clear
8 Ounce (Pack of 6)
Dupli-Color Automotive Clear Coat - 8 oz. Aerosol Cover
Dupli-Color EBCL01257 Clear Perfect Match Automotive Top Coat - 8 oz. Aerosol, (Case of 6)

Dupli-Color Automotive Clear Coat is a premium quality, acrylic lacquer aerosol paint that is easy to use and dries quickly. It features an adjustable nozzle for a smooth and even coat, and can be applied over any factory applied finish or Dupli-Color Premium Automotive Paint. It is ideal for touch-ups, vehicle accessories, motorcycles, and more. For the final step in the color match process, use Dupli-Color Clear Coat to provide additional gloss and protection.

What We Like
Easy to use
Professional finish
Great value
Quick delivery
Good color options
What We Don't Like
May require multiple coats
Temperature sensitive
#TOP 7

POR-15 Chassis Black Satin Spray Paint

45918
Chassis Black
POR-15 Chassis Black Satin Spray Paint Cover
POR-15 6 PK, Chassis Black Satin, Top Coat Automotive Spray Paint, 90 oz (Pack of 6)

The POR-15 Chassis Spray Paint is designed for those who need reliable protection for metal surfaces. Its direct-to-metal formula ensures that you can apply it without a primer, saving you time and effort. The exceptional sheen and color retention mean your projects will look great for years to come, while the tough finish resists cracking and peeling. This product is particularly useful for shielding against UV damage, ensuring that your surfaces remain vibrant even after prolonged exposure. With POR-15, you can trust that you're enhancing the durability of your projects with a proven rust prevention system.

What We Like
Long-lasting protection
Direct application on metal
Excellent UV resistance
Color retention
#TOP 8

Cerakote Professional Ceramic Coating

AH-PROPAINTKIT
2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)
Cerakote Professional Ceramic Coating Cover
Cerakote® Professional Ceramic Coating for Cars – High-Gloss Professional-Grade Paint Protection Kit, Ultra-Hydrophobic, UV & Chemical Resistant, Easy Application, Industry Leading 500 Wash Longevity, (2) 30ml Bottles

The Cerakote Ceramic Coating offers advanced protection for your car, making it easier to maintain its appearance. With ultra-hydrophobic technology, water and dirt slide right off, meaning fewer trips to the car wash. You'll enjoy a long-lasting, high-gloss finish that can withstand up to 500 washes, keeping your vehicle looking brand new effortlessly. Additionally, this coating provides robust defense against harmful UV rays and various chemicals, ensuring your paint job stays vibrant and intact. With a user-friendly application kit, anyone can achieve professional results without hassle.

What We Like
Easy application
Long-lasting protection
Excellent water beading
Great price-to-performance
DIY friendly
What We Don't Like
Requires maintenance for durability
#TOP 9

POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Chassis Black

45908
Chassis Black
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Chassis Black Cover
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Direct to Metal Paint, Long-term Sheen and Color Retention, 16 Fluid Ounces, Chassis Black

The POR-15 Top Coat offers exceptional protection for your metal surfaces. Its direct-to-metal formula ensures strong adhesion, making it perfect for preventing rust and corrosion. You can apply it without the need for a primer, saving you time and effort. This coating features a long-lasting finish that resists cracking and peeling, ensuring your projects stay looking great over time. Additionally, it provides excellent UV protection, so you don't have to worry about fading from sun exposure. With POR-15 Top Coat, you can enjoy durable, reliable protection for all your automotive needs.

What We Like
Durable over time
Effective for repairs
Easy to use
Good appearance results
What We Don't Like
Pricey for quantity
Hard to remove from skin
#TOP 10

POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Gloss White

46804
Gloss White
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Gloss White Cover
POR-15 Top Coat Paint, Direct to Metal Paint, Long-term Sheen and Color Retention, 32 Fluid Ounces, Gloss White

POR-15 Gloss White is a UV resistant top coat paint that doesn't require a primer or undercoat. This direct-to-metal rust preventive paint is ideal for professional use. The UV resistance ensures long-term color retention, saving you from frequent touch-ups. With no need for a primer or undercoat, you can skip a step in the painting process, making it convenient and time-saving. The direct-to-metal feature allows you to apply the paint directly on metal surfaces, providing a durable finish. Perfect for automotive top coats, this product offers ease of use and professional results.

What We Like
Effective rust prevention
Easy application
Good coverage
Levels out nicely
Durable finish
What We Don't Like
Tends to run easily
Long curing time
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are the different types of paint top coats?

When it comes to automotive top coats, there are various options available. Some common types of top coats include wax and water-based polyurethane. Water-based polyurethane can also be referred to as water-borne, polycrylic, polyacrylic, or acrylic resin. It's important to choose the right top coat based on your specific automotive project and the desired finish.

Editor's Notes

During our automotive top coat research, we found 24 automotive top coat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 496,923 customer reviews through our big data system to write the automotive top coats list. We found that most customers choose automotive top coats with an average price of $45.48.

The automotive top coats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of automotive top coats, including Dupli-Color, POR-15, SHINE ARMOR, CERAKOTE. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 242 consumers with an average rating of 4.3.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.

Automotive Top Coats Comparison Table

#TOP1
#TOP2
#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Dupli-Color Dupli-Color POR-15 SHINE ARMOR POR-15 Dupli-Color POR-15 CERAKOTE POR-15 POR-15
Specific Uses For Product Car Interior/Exterior Exterior Removes Dirt, Grease & Grimes Exterior Exterior Interior/Exterior Automotive Exterior Exterior
Finish Type Gloss Gloss Gloss - Gloss Gloss Semi-Gloss Gloss Gloss Gloss
Size 8 Ounce (Pack of 1) 3 Piece Set 1 Quarts (Pack of 1) - 1 Quarts (Pack of 1) 8 Ounce (Pack of 6) 15 Ounce (Pack of 6) 2 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 16 Fl Oz (Pack of 1) 1 Quarts (Pack of 1)
Item Volume 8 Fluid Ounces 8 Fluid Ounces 1 Quarts - 1 Quarts 8 Fluid Ounces 90 Fluid Ounces 30 Milliliters 1 Pints 1 Quarts
Special Feature Chip Resistant Fast-Drying Direct to Metal, U.V. Resistant - Direct to Metal, U.V. Resistant Low Odor Stain Resistant UV & Chemical Resistant, Ultra-Hydrophobic Direct to Metal, U.V. Resistant Direct to Metal, U.V. Resistant
Unit Count 8.0 Ounce 16 Ounce 32.0 Fluid Ounces - 32.0 Fluid Ounces 48.0 Ounce 90.0 Ounce 2.0 Fluid Ounces 16.0 Fluid Ounces 32.0 Fluid Ounces
Paint Type Spray, Acrylic Spray Oil - Oil Acrylic Spray Specialty Oil Oil
Surface Recommendation Metal,Plastic Plastic, Metal Metal - Metal Plastic Metal Metal, Car Metal substrates and previously painted surfaces Metal
Color Clear Random color, Clear Chassis Black - Gloss Black Clear Chassis Black - Chassis Black Gloss White
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.7
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy