Best Car Clear Coats of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 19, 2026

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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

Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat Cover #TOP 1
Spray Max 2K High Gloss Clear Coat
ftb score rating icon 9.9
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear Cover #TOP 2
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol Cover #TOP 3
Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Car Clear Coats

#TOP 1

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
Professional-grade high gloss finish
Easy aerosol application
Durable, hard protective coating
Excellent clarity and smoothness
Good value for DIY projects
What We Don't Like
Requires proper ventilation and safety gear
Some risk of orange peel for beginners
#TOP 2

USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear

3680061
Clear
USC SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Aerosol Clear Cover
SprayMax 2K Glamour High Gloss Clear Coat | 2K Automotive Clear Coat Spray Paint | High Gloss Finishing Spray | UV-Resistant, Scratch & Gasoline Resistant | Professional Grade 11.8 oz

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
Professional high-gloss finish
Easy aerosol application
Fast drying time
Excellent durability and UV resistance
Works for automotive and DIY projects
What We Don't Like
Higher price than standard clear coats
Requires strong ventilation or respirator
#TOP 3

Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol

8542051475
Clear
Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol Cover
Spray max USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol (2 PACK)

Spray Max 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol is a two component aerosol clearcoat that is easy to apply, flows smooth and dries to a long lasting, high gloss finish. It is a 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 2) aerosol with a pot life of 48 hours at 68 degree fahrenheit ambient temperature. Customers have praised its durability, shine, and ease of use, although they note that it may require more cans than expected to cover a large area. It is recommended to use a proper respirator and wear long sleeves and gloves when using this product.

What We Like
Professional-grade high gloss finish
Fast drying time
Durable and chemical-resistant
Easy aerosol application
Long-lasting shine
What We Don't Like
High price point
Occasional can malfunction
#TOP 4

SHERWIN WILLIAMS Finish 1 Automotive Refinish Ultimate Overall Clearcoat

FC720
Clear
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 to apply
Glossy smooth finish
Professional-grade results
Great value
Quick drying time
What We Don't Like
Thin consistency
Packaging issues
#TOP 5

Maxima SC1 High Gloss Clear Coat 4-Pack

78920-4PK
Multicolor
1 Count (Pack of 4)
Maxima SC1 High Gloss Clear Coat 4-Pack Cover
Maxima 78920-4PK SC1 High Gloss Coating 68.8 FL. OZ. 2032 mL - NET WT. 48 OZ. (1360g), 4-Pack

The Maxima SC1 Clear Coat is a high gloss finish designed especially for powersports vehicles like motorcycles and ATVs. It works well on plastic, fiberglass, and painted surfaces, giving you flexibility for different parts of your ride. This coating helps make cleaning easier by preventing mud and dirt from sticking to fenders, saving you time and effort after your adventures. Plus, it’s water resistant, so it maintains a shiny, dry look that lasts. With the Maxima SC1 Clear Coat, you can keep your powersports gear looking fresh and polished with less hassle.

What We Like
Restores plastic and rubber shine
Repels water and dust
Easy to use and apply
Pleasant scent
Long-lasting protective coating
What We Don't Like
Higher price
#TOP 6

FORTIVO Dry Guide Coat Powder 200g

FTV-DGC
Black
FORTIVO Dry Guide Coat Powder 200g Cover
Dry Guide Coat Powder - Highlights Scratches, Pinholes, Low Spots & Other Defects, Extra Large Black Powder Coat for Wet & Dry Auto Body Sanding - Guide Coat Auto Body w/Nitrile Gloves 200g

The FORTIVO Guide Coat Powder is a handy tool for detecting surface flaws like scratches and low spots while sanding your auto body projects. Its black powder creates a strong contrast, making imperfections easy to spot so you can fix them before finishing. You don’t have to wait for it to dry or worry about masking, which helps you save time and work more efficiently. Plus, it works well with both wet and dry sanding methods, giving you flexibility depending on your project’s needs. The ultra-fine powder reduces clogging, ensuring smooth sanding and hassle-free use every time.

What We Like
Goes on smoothly
Easy to sand off
No odor or mess
Great for bodywork
Minimal dust creation
#TOP 7

SprayMax 2K Matte Clear Coat

SMT 3680065
Clear
SprayMax 2K Matte Clear Coat Cover
SprayMax 2K Matte Clear Coat | 2K Automotive Matte Clear Coat Spray Paint for Cars, Motorcycles & Metal Surfaces | Durable Flat Finish, Chemical & Weather Resistant | Professional Grade 11.2 oz

The SprayMax Matte Clear Coat is perfect if you want a flat, low-shine finish on your car, motorcycle, or metal surfaces. Its subtle sheen helps you achieve a professional, matte look without the glossy shine. This clear coat works well over almost any type of paint, making it very versatile and easy to use on different projects. Plus, it offers strong protection against chemicals and harsh weather, so your finish will stay durable and look great for a long time. If you’re looking for a reliable, professional-grade spray that keeps your vehicle’s surface protected while giving it a stylish flat finish, the SprayMax Matte Clear Coat is a solid choice.

What We Like
Long-lasting durability
Professional-grade finish
Works on various surfaces
Excellent matte appearance
Easy aerosol application
What We Don't Like
Occasional spray nozzle issues
Limited instructions on can
#TOP 8

KBS Coatings 8114 DiamondFinish Clear

8114
Clear High Gloss
KBS Coatings 8114 DiamondFinish Clear Cover
KBS Coatings 8114 High Gloss Diamond Finish Clear Watercolor Aerosol, Covers 35 sq ft, 16 Ounce (Pack of 1)

The KBS DiamondFinish Clear is a high gloss clear coat designed to protect and enhance your surfaces. You can apply it directly over other coatings or straight onto steel and aluminum, making it easy to use on various materials. It also works well on painted surfaces with little preparation, saving you time and effort. This clear coat is exceptionally tough and hard, offering strong protection that lasts. Plus, it stays flexible and glossy without cracking, peeling, or yellowing, even in harsh conditions. With KBS DiamondFinish Clear, you get a durable, attractive finish that keeps your projects looking great.

What We Like
Durable and long-lasting finish
Easy to apply
High gloss and clear appearance
Works well in hot climates
Versatile for various surfaces
What We Don't Like
Slight amber tint possible
May need sanding for smoothness
#TOP 9

GYEON MOHS Ceramic Coating Kit

Gyeon
GY-2579-MFB
Clear
50 ml
GYEON MOHS Ceramic Coating Kit Cover
GYEON MOHS Ceramic Coating for Cars | Deep Gloss & 3-Year Protection | DIY Paint Coating Kit for Long-Lasting Shine | Easy Application & Hydrophobic Finish

The GYEON MOHS Coating offers an easy way for you to achieve professional-quality ceramic protection at home. It helps keep your car cleaner by repelling water, dirt, and grime, which means less frequent washing and less effort maintaining your paint. You’ll also notice a stunning glass-like shine that enhances the depth and clarity of your car’s color, making it look freshly detailed. Plus, this coating is built to last, protecting your paint for up to three years through everyday driving and weather changes, giving you long-term peace of mind with minimal upkeep.

What We Like
Easy application process
Excellent gloss and shine
Strong hydrophobic effect
Durable protection
Works on multiple surfaces
What We Don't Like
Hydrophobicity fades over time
Quick flash time during application
#TOP 10

SprayMax USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat 4 Pack

Clear
SprayMax USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat 4 Pack Cover
Spray max USC 2k High Gloss Clearcoat Aerosol (4 PACK)

The SprayMax Clearcoat 4 Pack offers excellent protection for your vehicle’s paint. It provides strong resistance against scratches and wear, helping maintain a smooth, polished look over time. This clearcoat is designed to be applied directly over all basecoat paints, making it versatile for various painting jobs. It comes ready to use—just activate, shake, and spray—which makes the application process quick and easy for you. Plus, the clear liquid formula ensures a high-gloss finish that enhances your vehicle’s appearance while protecting the paint underneath.

What We Like
High-gloss mirror finish
Dries quickly with hardener
Professional-grade results
Durable and long-lasting
Easy spray application
What We Don't Like
Occasional faulty cans
Minor risk of leaking caps
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 148,873 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 $45.42.

The car clear coats are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car clear coats, including SprayMax, SHERWIN WILLIAMS, Maxima, FORTIVO, KBS Coatings. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 343 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

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

#TOP1
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#TOP10
Brand SprayMax SprayMax SprayMax SHERWIN WILLIAMS Maxima FORTIVO SprayMax KBS Coatings Gyeon SprayMax
Specific Uses For Product Gun Interior/Exterior Gun Interior/Exterior Degreaser / Cleaner - automotive repair and painting, touch-up jobs, matte finish detailing, durable protective coating Interior/Exterior Car Surface Protection Exterior
Color clear Clear Clear Clear - - Clear Clear High Gloss Clear Clear
Finish Type High-Gloss Gloss High-Gloss Gloss - - Gloss Gloss Ceramic High-Gloss
Size 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 1) 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 1) 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 2) 1 Gal with Medium Hardener FH612 - - 11.2 Ounce (Pack of 1) 16 Ounce (Pack of 1) 50 ml 11.8 Ounce (Pack of 4)
Item Volume 400 Milliliters 32.37 Cubic Inches 8 Fluid Ounces 1 Gallons - - 12 Fluid Ounces 16 Fluid Ounces 3.05 Cubic Inches 47.2 Fluid Ounces
Special Feature Long lasting Scratch Resistant Glossy Flake Resistant - - Water Resistant, Matte Finish Chip Resistant, Crack Resistant, Fade Resistant, Rust Resistant, Scratch Resistant Deep Gloss UV Resistant
Unit Count 11.8 Ounce 11.8 Ounce 23.6 Ounce 160.0 Fluid Ounces - - 11.2 Ounce 16.0 Ounce 1.7 Fluid Ounces 47.2 Ounce
Surface Recommendation Metal,Plastic Variety Metal, Plastic Automotive Metal - - Exterior/Indoor Metal Glass Painted Surfaces
Paint Type Oil Spray Spray Spray - - Regular Acrylic - Spray
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 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
Where to Buy