What is Metallic Paint?

Metallic Paint Samples, paint bucks, Blue and red — Metallic Paint Samples

Metallic paint is an automotive finish that contains microscopic metal flakes—generally aluminum—suspended in the paint. These flakes create a sparkling, reflective effect that can shift in brightness and intensity depending on the viewing angle and lighting conditions.

What is Metallic Paint?

Application

The paint is almost always applied as a base coat, and then protected with a clearcoat (transparent layer) that adds depth, gloss, as well as UV and weather protection.

Premium Look

Metallic finishes are popular, at least in part, because they can give a vehicle a premium look. Among other paint options, most new vehicles are offered with several metallic choices.

Cost

Metallic paint is often an extra-cost option, and in most cases adds between $300 and $600 to the price of the vehicle. In the case of luxury vehicles, premium paint options can cost much more.

Cons

Note that metallic paint finishes can be tricky to match or repair. Panel-to-panel blending is often required because the orientation and density of the flakes must line up for a seamless appearance. Matching a metallic finish can add to the cost of a repair, as well as the time it takes to make said repair.

Maintenance

Unlike popular matte-finish paint, metallic paint does not require any special care, and can be taking through car washes (we recommend soft-cloth or “touchless”) without worry.

CG Says:

Metallic car paint is defined by the addition of reflective metal flakes that produce its characteristic sparkling, multi-dimensional look. If you are considering a new vehicle with a metallic finish, be prepared to pay a little extra for the option.