How Many Cans of Paint Do I Need?

The amount of paint required depends on panel size, number of coats, and can size.
At Car Paints Direct, custom colour aerosols are supplied in 100 ml cans, while primers, clearcoats, and other coatings are supplied in 400 ml aerosols.

Use the guide below to choose the correct quantity.

📏 Coverage Guide

🔹 100 ml Custom-Filled Colour Aerosols

• Suitable for small repairs and partial panels

• Ideal for stone chips, blends, and spot repairs

Coverage guide:

• Small repair / blend area: 1–2 cans

• Partial panel (e.g. wing corner): 3–4 cans

• Full panel coverage: not recommended with 100 ml cans

🔹 400 ml Standard Aerosols (Primers, Clearcoats, Stonechip)

As a general rule:

• 1 × 400 ml can covers approximately 1 m²

• Based on:

  • 2–3 coats (primer or base)

  • 2 coats (clearcoat)

🚗 Typical Panel Requirements (400 ml Aerosols)

Front Wing / Rear Quarter (partial)

• Primer (if required): 1–2 cans

• Clearcoat: 1–2 cans

Door (one side)

• Primer (if required): 2 cans

• Clearcoat: 2 cans

Bumper (full)

• Primer (if required): 2–3 cans

• Clearcoat: 2–3 cans

Bonnet (full)

• Primer (if required): 3–4 cans

• Clearcoat: 3–4 cans

Roof (full)

• Primer (if required): 4–6 cans

• Clearcoat: 4–6 cans

⚠️ Important Notes

• Metallic and pearl colours may require additional colour coats

• Blending increases paint usage

• Running out mid-job risks colour mismatch

• Ordering an extra can is recommended where possible

✅ Summary

• 100 ml custom aerosols → small repairs & blends

• 400 ml aerosols → primers, clearcoats, and full panels

• Full panel resprays should always use 400 ml products