How to Determine Paint Thickness

Determining the paint thickness on a car can be one of the most important things a person can do when trying to decide if you want to purchase a car at an auction. The paint thickness on a car can provide clues to its history, such as whether or not it has been damaged or repainted. Routine paint thickness for untouched vehicles should be about 125 microns, which is the standard term that paint thickness meters provide readouts in.

Instructions

1

Become familiar with your paint thickness meter. Various models have different instructions, so be sure to read the ones provided by the manufacturer carefully.

2

Look for variations or differences in color, texture and gloss on the whole car. Any area that looks suspect should be tested.

3

Examine the car for signs of overspray (extremely small droplets of paint) on accessories, windows and fender wells.

4

Investigate areas that are often involved in accidents, such as the fenders, bumpers, and side doors.

5

Use the paint thickness meter to test any areas of the car that seem suspect. To test, simply press the electronic device against the car and make a note of the reading on the screen. It is advisable to test in several places on any given vehicle.