How to Sand Car Paint for Repairs & Repainting (400, 600, 800, 1200 Grit Guide)

Whether you’re fixing scratches, blending touch-ups, or preparing for a full respray, sanding car paint is a crucial step. Done correctly, it ensures that primer, paint, and clear coat bond smoothly and last longer. This guide covers the ideal grit sequence and techniques for automotive paint prep.

Why Sand Car Paint?

Automotive paint layers are thin and prone to defects. Sanding removes scratches, oxidation, and uneven surfaces while creating a profile that new paint or clear coat can grip. Skipping proper sanding leads to peeling paint, visible repair marks, and poor adhesion.

Tools You’ll Need

• Wet/dry sandpaper in multiple grits
• Sanding block or flexible pad
• Bucket of clean water with a few drops of dish soap
• Microfiber towels
• Masking tape for protected edges

Best Grit Sequence for Car Paint

• 400 grit (100-pack) — For leveling scratches, peeling paint, or blending repairs.
• 600 grit (25-pack) — Smooths primer and removes orange peel texture.
• 800 grit (50-pack) — Refines the surface before basecoat or color blending.
• 1200 grit (25-pack) — Creates a silky finish for clear coat application.

Step-by-Step: Sanding Car Paint

1. Clean the surface. Wash thoroughly to remove dirt and grease before sanding.
2. Start with 400 grit. Use 400 grit sheets to smooth scratches or flaking paint. Keep the paper wet to avoid clogging.
3. Move to 600 grit. Switch to 600 grit sandpaper to refine the primer coat or feather out repaired areas.
4. Refine with 800 grit. Use 800 grit for the final pass before applying basecoat. This ensures even color coverage.
5. Finish with 1200 grit. Apply 1200 grit sheets for a smooth surface that makes the clear coat shine.
6. Wipe clean. Use microfiber towels to remove all residue before painting.

Special Cases

• Scratch removal: Deep scratches may require 400 grit followed by progressive refinement.
• Blending paint: Use 800–1200 grit to feather edges where new paint meets old.
• Clear coat prep: Always finish with 1200 grit to avoid texture showing through.

Pro Tips

• Keep sandpaper wet at all times to prevent swirl marks.
• Use light pressure—let the grit do the work.
• Check progress under bright light or sunlight for accuracy.

Aftercare

• Apply primer within 24 hours of sanding to avoid surface contamination.
• Seal with clear coat for long-lasting protection.
• Polish with compound after curing for a mirror finish.

FAQs

• Do I need to sand between paint coats? Yes, a light pass with 800–1200 grit helps each layer bond.
• Can I sand by hand? Yes, but a sanding block keeps surfaces even and prevents finger marks.
• Is dry sanding safe for cars? No—always wet sand automotive finishes to avoid scratches and heat damage.

Watch & Learn

Using the right grit sequence is the secret to flawless automotive paint. Stock up on super fine sandpaper sheets and achieve showroom results at home.