Best Car Clear Coats of 2025

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

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Car clear coats are a type of protective coating that can be applied to a vehicle's paint job. They are designed to provide an extra layer of protection against damage from the sun, weather, and other environmental factors. Clear coats are available in various formulations, including acrylic, polyurethane, and ceramic. They can be applied over the base coat of a car's paint job and provide a glossy, smooth finish. Clear coats can also be used to repair minor scratches and blemishes in a car's paint job. Overall, car clear coats are an essential tool for maintaining the appearance and value of a vehicle.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear Cover #TOP 1
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Cover #TOP 2
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat
ftb score rating icon 9.8
KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Clear Coat - 1 Quart Cover #TOP 3
KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Clear Coat - 1 Quart
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Car Clear Coats

#TOP 1

USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

3680061
Clear
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear Cover
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

The USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear is an automotive and marine spray urethane clearcoat that provides a glossy finish. This clearcoat is perfect for those who want to protect their car or boat from scratches, UV rays, and weathering. It comes in a spray can, which makes it easy to apply, and is a clear, urethane-based formula that dries quickly and provides long-lasting protection.

What We Like
Durable high-gloss finish
Easy application with good coverage
Excellent long-term durability
Works well on various surfaces
Mixing hardener for optimal results
What We Don't Like
Short pot life after activation
Toxic fumes require safety precautions
#TOP 2

Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat

3680061
clear
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Cover
Spray max USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol

Spray Max 2K High Gloss Finish Clear Coat is a two-component aerosol clearcoat that is easy to apply and flows smoothly to a long-lasting, high-gloss finish. It is designed for use over all basecoats and is resistant to weather and chemicals. Customers have praised its high-gloss finish, durability, and ease of use.

What We Like
Easy application
High gloss finish
Durable and strong
Wide spray pattern
Good for DIY projects
What We Don't Like
One can may be inconsistent
Requires careful surface prep
#TOP 3

KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Clear Coat - 1 Quart

8404
Clear
KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Clear Coat - 1 Quart Cover
KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Watercolor Clear Coat - 1 Quart, 32 Fl Oz (Pack of 1)

KBS Coatings 8404 DiamondFinish Clear Coat is a permanent high solids and low VOC's clear coat that can be applied directly over other coatings or direct to metal DTM. It is a moisture-cured urethane that offers durability, flexibility, corrosion, chemical resistance, and can be applied directly to painted surfaces with minimal surface prep. DiamondFinish Clear can also be applied to non-ferrous metals, withstands harsh chemicals, and is graffiti-resistant. It can be used for high-temperature automotive applications without yellowing up to 300° Fahrenheit.

What We Like
Smooth application
Self-leveling properties
Good for outdoor projects
Effective on fiberglass
Brightens dull finishes
What We Don't Like
Strong fumes
Pressure build-up in can
#TOP 4

SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat

SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat Cover
SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat (FC720), 1 Gallon | Medium Universal Hardener (FH612), 1 Quart Included

The SHERWIN WILLIAMS Clearcoat is a high-quality automotive refinish product that provides an excellent gloss finish, distinctness of image, leveling, blending, and buffing. It is designed for overall refinishing and can be applied to automotive basecoats and cured single stage enamels. This clear coat is easy to apply and polish, thanks to its cross-coat application technique. With a 4:1 mixing ratio and included quart of standard universal hardener, it offers great convenience for car spray painting. The SHERWIN WILLIAMS Clearcoat is the perfect choice for achieving a professional-looking finish on your vehicle.

What We Like
Easy application
Flatter and smoother finish
Durable and long-lasting results
Affordable price
Polishes easily
What We Don't Like
Not the glossiest finish
High shrink rate
#TOP 5

LiME LiNE 2K Clearcoat Kit

overall clear gallon
clear
1.25 gallon
LiME LiNE 2K Clearcoat Kit Cover
LiME LiNE Automotive 2K Clearcoat, 1.25 Gallon Kit- 4:1 Mixture - Overall High Gloss Finish Top Coat for Cars, Trucks and Motorcycles.

The LiME LiNE Clearcoat is a versatile 1.25-gallon kit that offers a perfect 4:1 mixture for a stunning finish on cars, trucks, and motorcycles. This clearcoat is built to endure harsh weather conditions while providing a protective UV barrier, ensuring your vehicle looks great and stays protected. Its excellent flow and non-sagging characteristics make application easy, giving you a smooth and professional finish. Plus, you can air dry it without needing a specialized paint booth or UV lights, making it a convenient choice for DIY enthusiasts.

What We Like
Quick setup time
User-friendly application
Excellent finish quality
Affordable for large projects
Compatible with tint and pigment
What We Don't Like
Minor upload issues
#TOP 6

Clear Coat 2K Acrylic Urethane

5864266303
Clear
2 Piece Set
Clear Coat 2K Acrylic Urethane Cover
Speedokote Clear Coat 2K Acrylic Urethane, SMR-1150/1102-Q 4:1 Gallon Clearcoat Medium Kit. For California, Delaware, or Maryland, order SS-132.

This Car Clear Coat kit features a Universal Durable Clear that is easy to buff, dries and cures at a medium speed, and provides High Gloss and DOI (Distinctness of Image). It is also UV resistant for excellent weathering, making it suitable for use in various temperature ranges between 65 - 80 deg. F.

What We Like
Crystal clear finish
Easy to apply
Good for beginners
Excellent flow properties
Affordably priced
What We Don't Like
May clog polishing pads
Softness compared to others
#TOP 7

ERA Paints 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Spray

MS2KCLR-1
ERA Paints 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Spray Cover
ERA Paints 2K High Gloss Automotive Clear Coat Spray/Aerosol Can – Professional Quality & Finish - Easy to Use – Best Value (1 pack)

ERA Paints 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Spray offers superior hardness and provides a high gloss finish. It provides 100% UV protection and superior gasoline and chemical resistance compared to 1K clearcoats. The clear coat improves color match, protects paint and enhances sheen when applied to vehicles, wheels, calipers, guitars and craft projects. The clear coat is easy to apply with a professional fan spray adjustable nozzle. It has the fastest cure time in the industry and a 48-hour pot life.

What We Like
Durable finish
Easy application
Excellent adhesion
Good price
Great for novices
What We Don't Like
Short work time
Professional use precautions required
#TOP 8

High Gloss Clear Coat Urethane Kit

SMR-21/25
Clear
2 Piece Set
High Gloss Clear Coat Urethane Kit Cover
Speedokote Automotive High Gloss Clear Coat Urethane, SMR-21/25 4:1 Gallon Clearcoat Kit. For California, Delaware, or Maryland, order SS-132.

This automotive clear coat kit offers a true 2K urethane formula at a reasonable price with a 4:1 mixing ratio. It provides high gloss and DOI, and is UV resistant for superior weathering. Moreover, it is very easy to buff, making it a convenient option for car owners who want a clear coat that can keep their cars looking new.

What We Like
Fast drying
High-quality finish
Easy to apply
Excellent for Rustoleum paint
Low film thickness
What We Don't Like
Thin viscosity
Requires high-end HVLP gun
#TOP 9

LiME LiNE 2K Clearcoat Kit

1.25 Quart Kit Clearcoat
Clear
LiME LiNE 2K Clearcoat Kit Cover
LiME LiNE Automotive 2K Clearcoat, 1.25 Quart Kit- 4:1 Mixture - Overall High Gloss Finish Top Coat for Cars, Trucks and Motorcycles

The LiME LiNE Clearcoat is a versatile 1.25 quart kit that offers a fantastic protective finish for your cars, trucks, or motorcycles. Its four-to-one mixture ensures easy application, making it user-friendly even for those without a paint booth. Designed to endure harsh weather, this clearcoat provides a strong UV barrier, helping to keep your vehicle looking fresh for longer. With excellent flow and non-sagging properties, you can achieve a smooth and glossy finish that enhances the overall appearance of your vehicle. Plus, it can air dry without any special equipment, allowing for convenient use.

What We Like
Easy to use
Clear instructions
Great finish quality
Good technical support
Affordable price
What We Don't Like
Slow shipping
Longevity unknown
#TOP 10

U-Pol 2882 Fast KIT Overall Clear Urethane CLEARCOAT

8542052501
Clear
1 Count (Pack of 1)
U-Pol 2882 Fast KIT Overall Clear Urethane CLEARCOAT Cover
U-POL 2882 Fast KIT Overall Urethane CLEARCOAT Universal Clear 4:1 Fast KIT

The U-Pol 2882 Fast KIT Overall Clear Urethane CLEARCOAT is a high solids urethane clear coat with a 4 to 1 mixing ratio that can be air dried, low baked or I.R. cured. You can easily apply it with excellent flow and non-sag properties. Its fast hardener hardens rapidly to give a high build U.V resistant coating, and it provides excellent gloss and long term durability. It is perfect for car clear coats.

What We Like
Dries quickly
Mixes easily
Excellent shine & clarity
Smooth application
Great price and quality
What We Don't Like
Sensitive to spray patterns
Requires more cutting
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Is clear coat worth it on cars?

Yes, clear coat is worth it on cars as it provides valuable body protection. It acts as a barrier between the paint and external elements, helping to prevent rust and damage. Even deep-looking scratches usually only penetrate the clear coat, which can be easily removed with professional polishing.

2. How long do car clear coats last?

A car's clear coat can last up to 15 years if properly cared for. Regular maintenance is important to protect the clear coat from dirt, grime, snow, mud, and other contaminants. The better you care for your car's clear coat, the longer it will last.

3. How many coats of clear coat does a car need?

To achieve the glossiest finish, it is recommended to apply three to four layers of clear coat. Allow at least 10 minutes between coats, with the second coat slightly thicker than the first. Give the final layer about an hour to dry.

4. Is it better to wax or clear coat a car?

Both waxing and clear coating a car are important. Regular waxing helps preserve the clear coat and provides additional protection against corrosive elements. The clear coat acts as a layer of defense, safeguarding the paint from environmental contaminants, including UV rays, snow, rain, bird droppings, and more.

5. Is Clear coat better than wax?

Clear coat provides higher durability than wax. Ceramic coatings, in particular, offer superior resistance to heat, UV rays, environmental contaminants, and harsh detergents. Wax sits on the surface and does not create the same chemical bond as ceramic coatings.

6. How often should you reapply clear coat?

Clear coat does not need to be reapplied on a regular basis. Once properly applied, it should last for an extended period. However, if damage or peeling occurs, it is recommended to have the clear coat stripped and repainted by a professional auto body shop.

7. Can you redo just clear coat on a car?

No, once the clear coat starts peeling, it cannot be restored. The only solution is to have the affected areas stripped and repainted by an auto body shop. If the clear coat has peeled in some areas, it is necessary to repaint the entire car to ensure a consistent color and finish.

8. Can you apply too much clear coat?

Yes, it is important to avoid applying excess clear coat, especially on vertical parts. Excessive application can lead to paint defects, such as sagging clear coat. It is best to apply clear coat evenly and follow the recommended guidelines for proper application.

Editor's Notes

During our car clear coat research, we found 24 car clear coat products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 76,212 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car clear coats list. We found that most customers choose car clear coats with an average price of $45.73.

The car clear coats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car clear coats, including Spray max, KBS Coatings, SHERWIN WILLIAMS, LiME LiNE, Speedokote. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 10,096 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

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.

Car Clear Coats Comparison Table

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#TOP5
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Brand Spray max Spray max KBS Coatings SHERWIN WILLIAMS LiME LiNE Speedokote ERA Paints Speedokote LiME LiNE U-POL
Finish Type High-Gloss High-Gloss - Gloss - High-Gloss High-Gloss High-Gloss High-Gloss Gloss
Size 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 1) 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 1) - 80 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) - 2 Piece Set 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 1) 2 Piece Set 23.84 Fl Oz (Pack of 2) 1 Count (Pack of 1)
Item Volume 311 Milliliters 400 Milliliters - 1 Gallons - 1 Gallons 11.8 Fluid Ounces 1 Gallons 40 Fluid Ounces 500 Milliliters
Special Feature Scratch Resistant UV Resistant - Flake Resistant - UV Resistant Adjustable UV Resistant High Gloss UV Resistant
Unit Count 11.8 Ounce 11.8 Ounce - 160.0 Fluid Ounces - 160.0 Fluid Ounces 11.8 Ounce 160 Fluid Ounces 47.68 Fluid Ounces 1 Count
Paint Type Spray Spray - Spray - Acrylic Spray Acrylic Acrylic Urethane
Color Clear clear - Ultimate Overall Gloss - Clear - Clear Clear Clear
Specific Uses For Product Gun Gun - Interior/Exterior - - Truck,Car Exterior Exterior -
Surface Recommendation - Metal,Plastic - Automotive Metal - - Painted Surfaces Metal Metal Metal, Plastic
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
Where to Buy